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Sister Wife #1
For Time & Eternity
2011 Christy Award finalist!All Camilla Deardon knows of the Mormons camping nearby is the songs she hears floating on the breeze. Then she meets one of them—a young man named Nathan Fox. Never did she imagine he would be so handsome, so charming, especially after Mama and Papa’s warnings to stay away. Though she knows she should obey her parents, Camilla can’t refuse her heart. But even Nathan’s promises cannot prepare her for what she will face in Utah.
363 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2010
218 people are currently reading
1538 people want to read
About the author
Allison Pittman
32 books654 followersAllison Pittman is the author of For Time and Eternity, Stealing Home, the Crossroads of Grace series, and her nonfiction debut, Saturdays With Stella. A high-school English teacher, she serves as director of the theater arts group at her church. She is also the co-president of a dynamic Christian writers group in the San Antonio, Texas area, where she makes her home with her husband and their three boys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
January 28, 2013
The author admitted that she browsed ex-Mormon websites and discussion boards for research for this book (as well as talking with her husband, who had been excommunicated from the Mormon church). It shows; this book is extremely biased against the Mormon faith. I am very offended with the way Allison Pittman portrayed Latter-day Saints, and I wish she'd looked to other sources besides the rantings of ex-Mormons for information.
She flat-out called Mormons "liars" and said that Mormons consider Joseph Smith a "Savior." I am completely disgusted, and also very upset that some readers who know little or nothing about the Mormon religion are being exposed to it through this book. Some reviewers have said that they have a better understanding of Mormonism after reading this book, and I am truly sad that they believe so because the truth is that this book is not in any way a fair representation of the Mormon faith.
She flat-out called Mormons "liars" and said that Mormons consider Joseph Smith a "Savior." I am completely disgusted, and also very upset that some readers who know little or nothing about the Mormon religion are being exposed to it through this book. Some reviewers have said that they have a better understanding of Mormonism after reading this book, and I am truly sad that they believe so because the truth is that this book is not in any way a fair representation of the Mormon faith.
August 5, 2016
The author is extremely biased against Mormonism. I don't necessarily believe it either, but it ruined the book for me.
February 24, 2012
Was pleasantly surprised at this read. The story is about Camilla Fox a young girl who left a Christian home to marry a Mormon moving to the Great Salt Lake. Her life is filled with her family, teaching of the church, and other saints. She is content until a loss sends her into doubt. As she struggles with what she has been taught over the years her husband, Nathan is also struggling. Camilla's struggle takes her back to her Christian faith while Nathan's takes him deeper in the Mormon religion.
I loved both the character's of Camilla and Nathan. The history of the early Mormon teachings were sound and represented well in the book.
As a Christian living in Utah I loved reading the historical facts. I walked away from the book understanding how Nathan thought he was doing the right thing and how we as Christians should show Compassion on those who believe in a false religion. At the same time I love how the author shows the importance to stand for truth even if it hurts the ones you love. I also thought the author made some of the Mormons very likable which was good because it's true. Mormons are very nice people. There were others that were shown as harsh and again I say good because the truth is some were and are like that as well. There were some Christians during the start of Mormonism that did not treat the Mormons kindly, and this was also explained in the book.
So just like back then things have not changed there are both kinds of people in the Mormon and Christian camps. Just because someone is unkind or unloving and claims to be a Christian does not mean Christianity is wrong the same goes for Mormonism. Truth comes when you study the doctrines and are not moved by emotions alone.
I loved both the character's of Camilla and Nathan. The history of the early Mormon teachings were sound and represented well in the book.
As a Christian living in Utah I loved reading the historical facts. I walked away from the book understanding how Nathan thought he was doing the right thing and how we as Christians should show Compassion on those who believe in a false religion. At the same time I love how the author shows the importance to stand for truth even if it hurts the ones you love. I also thought the author made some of the Mormons very likable which was good because it's true. Mormons are very nice people. There were others that were shown as harsh and again I say good because the truth is some were and are like that as well. There were some Christians during the start of Mormonism that did not treat the Mormons kindly, and this was also explained in the book.
So just like back then things have not changed there are both kinds of people in the Mormon and Christian camps. Just because someone is unkind or unloving and claims to be a Christian does not mean Christianity is wrong the same goes for Mormonism. Truth comes when you study the doctrines and are not moved by emotions alone.
August 21, 2012
Have you ever read and book that you think is really important? I can't say that's usually (or ever) what I think when reading books but it sure is what I thought while reading this one. The book is a fantastic read, carefully woven by an adept writer. But the subject matter is just so important in this day and time.
Camilla flees her strict God-fearing parents to follow a young man, Nathan Fox, who is part of a Mormon group going to settle in Utah in the late 1800's. Things work well for the couple until Camilla begins to be uncomfortable with the teachings of "the prophet." This book shows how we can be led astray by someone teaching a "different Jesus" than the one that we know, especially when they are acting more Christ-like than the real Christians.
3 But I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent. 4 You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed. (2 Corinthians 11:3-4)
Theology: A+! Ms. Pittman does a wonderful job incorporating biblical themes into her writing without preaching. She portrays God's faithfulness amidst our poor choices. She shows how God can use our suffering to draw us back to Him. She explores the conflict between a husband's authority and being obedient to God. Most of all, she shows us what humility and selflessness look like through Camilla.
Maturity: PG While I think this book was intended for an adult audience, the protagonist is 15 when the book starts and 21 when the book ends. I think there is plenty to appeal to a YA audience. One conflict in the book revolves around polygamy and its affect on marriage.
Social Issues: Mormonism, false teaching, polygamy
I have been truly blessed this summer to read some amazing books. This is one of them. I highly recommend it. The author has really done her research into Mormonism and its perversion of the true Christian faith. Anyone who thinks that Mormonsim is a form of Christianity should read this book.
Camilla flees her strict God-fearing parents to follow a young man, Nathan Fox, who is part of a Mormon group going to settle in Utah in the late 1800's. Things work well for the couple until Camilla begins to be uncomfortable with the teachings of "the prophet." This book shows how we can be led astray by someone teaching a "different Jesus" than the one that we know, especially when they are acting more Christ-like than the real Christians.
3 But I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent. 4 You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed. (2 Corinthians 11:3-4)
Theology: A+! Ms. Pittman does a wonderful job incorporating biblical themes into her writing without preaching. She portrays God's faithfulness amidst our poor choices. She shows how God can use our suffering to draw us back to Him. She explores the conflict between a husband's authority and being obedient to God. Most of all, she shows us what humility and selflessness look like through Camilla.
Maturity: PG While I think this book was intended for an adult audience, the protagonist is 15 when the book starts and 21 when the book ends. I think there is plenty to appeal to a YA audience. One conflict in the book revolves around polygamy and its affect on marriage.
Social Issues: Mormonism, false teaching, polygamy
I have been truly blessed this summer to read some amazing books. This is one of them. I highly recommend it. The author has really done her research into Mormonism and its perversion of the true Christian faith. Anyone who thinks that Mormonsim is a form of Christianity should read this book.
October 12, 2023
I could hardly put this book down. I did not expect to be so engaged in the story, although I was excited to find an author willing to tackle the subject of Mormon history from a Christian perspective. I’ve seen too many cases lately where LDS doctrine is equated with true Christianity, especially by LDS authors who want to be (or already are) seen as Christian. (Note that the term Mormon is now considered pejorative by many LDS adherents, but it was the historically accurate term at the time of this book’s history, so I’m sticking with it in this review.)
Stories of rebellion against parents don’t generally appeal to me, but I appreciated that Camilla’s choices were not excused even though her parents’ version of faith was lacking. Pittman did a good job making all her characters believable and not vilifying any of them without just cause. It was so sad to see the damage that resulted from an unbiblical view of who God is and how to please him, especially with Nathan’s endless pursuit of eternal glory. This book clearly demonstrates the danger that comes with using biblical terms for unbiblical ideas. (For more on that, see my review of Mormonism, Mama, and Me by Thelma Geer.) Some LDS reviewers took exception to the fact that Pittman gleaned much of her research from ex-Mormons, but to the best of my knowledge, everything the story displays is true to history and the Mormon prophets’ own writings. I’ve verified some of those doctrines for myself on the primary LDS website, which is very careful to gloss over some of the more blatant doctrines with biblical-sounding language. Although For Time and Eternity contains a wealth of biblical and historical information, it is not dry or “preachy.” The concepts are woven into the characters’ lives and arise when the story dictates, showing how truth and error affect everyday life.
Because part of that truth and error involves the practice of polygamy, there is some discussion of what that entails. Marital intimacy is mentioned or hinted at several times, but overall, it’s tasteful and not graphic, certainly appropriate for most older readers. The scene I was personally most uncomfortable with involved disrobing for the sake of rejecting certain “sacred garments.” Only husband and wife were present and there was nothing immoral in the scene; it’s simply that I read for the experience of vicariously immersing myself in the story, and that wasn’t a scene I necessarily wanted to be vicariously immersed in. I did appreciate the way Camilla continued to love and honor her husband even when he had sinned against her. That made her decisions all the more powerful, since she was clearly making those decisions based on biblical truth rather than on her own anger or vengefulness.
I knew going into this that it ended on a cliffhanger, so I’m not going to delve into that too much, although it would have been nice to have the story feel more fully resolved even with the teaser for the next book. For that reason and the personally uncomfortable bits, it’s a four-star book for me. But the story and its messages will linger in my mind, and I applaud Allison Pittman for exploring a potentially controversial subject in an engaging, well-written way. Don’t skip the author interview at the end—it adds so much extra context to the story.
Content warnings: mentions of marital intimacy, polygamy, undress, threat of violence, LDS teaching (portrayed as false)
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Stories of rebellion against parents don’t generally appeal to me, but I appreciated that Camilla’s choices were not excused even though her parents’ version of faith was lacking. Pittman did a good job making all her characters believable and not vilifying any of them without just cause. It was so sad to see the damage that resulted from an unbiblical view of who God is and how to please him, especially with Nathan’s endless pursuit of eternal glory. This book clearly demonstrates the danger that comes with using biblical terms for unbiblical ideas. (For more on that, see my review of Mormonism, Mama, and Me by Thelma Geer.) Some LDS reviewers took exception to the fact that Pittman gleaned much of her research from ex-Mormons, but to the best of my knowledge, everything the story displays is true to history and the Mormon prophets’ own writings. I’ve verified some of those doctrines for myself on the primary LDS website, which is very careful to gloss over some of the more blatant doctrines with biblical-sounding language. Although For Time and Eternity contains a wealth of biblical and historical information, it is not dry or “preachy.” The concepts are woven into the characters’ lives and arise when the story dictates, showing how truth and error affect everyday life.
Because part of that truth and error involves the practice of polygamy, there is some discussion of what that entails. Marital intimacy is mentioned or hinted at several times, but overall, it’s tasteful and not graphic, certainly appropriate for most older readers. The scene I was personally most uncomfortable with involved disrobing for the sake of rejecting certain “sacred garments.” Only husband and wife were present and there was nothing immoral in the scene; it’s simply that I read for the experience of vicariously immersing myself in the story, and that wasn’t a scene I necessarily wanted to be vicariously immersed in. I did appreciate the way Camilla continued to love and honor her husband even when he had sinned against her. That made her decisions all the more powerful, since she was clearly making those decisions based on biblical truth rather than on her own anger or vengefulness.
I knew going into this that it ended on a cliffhanger, so I’m not going to delve into that too much, although it would have been nice to have the story feel more fully resolved even with the teaser for the next book. For that reason and the personally uncomfortable bits, it’s a four-star book for me. But the story and its messages will linger in my mind, and I applaud Allison Pittman for exploring a potentially controversial subject in an engaging, well-written way. Don’t skip the author interview at the end—it adds so much extra context to the story.
Content warnings: mentions of marital intimacy, polygamy, undress, threat of violence, LDS teaching (portrayed as false)
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November 11, 2011
My only defense in reading this was that it was free on Kindle. The author is extremely biased against the LDS church. She says she went to forums and talked to many ex-LDS members. Um...do you really think that is your best source of information? She wrote the main guy, Nathan to be a huge egotistical jerk who only cares what God thinks of him. The LDS community that the main character lives in is full of crazy people who yell from the pulpit and outright and in from of everyone tell you your a sinner and need to repent. I'm sorry, but I highly doubt that ever happened. And then the end....the elder kicking her out of her house and telling her that she can't take anything with her? Really? Um...I think not. Look, I can see a woman having issues with her hubs marrying another woman and all, but she's all like forced into it; I don't think that would happen. I'm sorry, but I really think that the author has a strong anti-mormon agenda and I don't like that at all. Boo on this book!
September 30, 2010
For Time & Eternity, the first book in The Sister Wife series by Allison Pittman, was very interesting to me because I hadn’t ever read a Christian historical fiction novel about Mormon culture. Being raised in Utah, and married to an ex-Mormon, Allison definitely knows her subject matter.
In this book, Allison writes about the Mormon marriage ceremony in great detail and I wondered how she knew so much about the “sacred” and secretive ritual. As part of her research, she spent time in Salt Lake City at Temple Square and also read The Book of Mormon and The Doctrine and the Covenants, as well as talking with and reading posts by ex-Mormons on various online forums.
For Time & Eternity is the story of a young woman who falls in love with a man and finds herself having to choose between her traditional Christian upbringing or following her heart and converting to the Mormon religion of her beloved. Although warned over and over not to follow after the Mormons, she ends up going against her parent’s wishes and running away to marry her beloved. The first part of her marriage seems like a fairytale.
Years later when her husband begins dwelling on the idea of adding a second wife to the family does she realize that this is not the life she hoped for. She feels convicted about leaving her parents as well as walking away from God and His Word into a false religion. However, because she has two young daughters to consider, the choice of whether to stay with her husband and accept his decision to marry another woman or leave him and go back to her parents is much harder than she realized.
The story is intense, emotional and very interesting, although I anticipate that Allison Pittman will take some hits by those who will not agree with her accurate portrayal (and exposure) of the Mormon religion. This book is unique – not your typical Christian fiction love story and that’s part of what kept me turning the pages. The subject matter was so unusual and so different that it was a breath of fresh air to read. For those who love historical fiction – this is a gem.
This book is a cliff hanger at the end and I hated to close the book! Thankfully there is an excerpt of Chapter 1 from the second book in the back so I have an idea of what happens next. I am anxious to read the second book in this series, Forsaking All Others.
Read an interview with Allison about this book:
http://resurrectedgirl.blogspot.com/2...
January 20, 2013
I picked this up when it was free on Kindle. It wasn't the sort of book I would normally read as it was listed as historical Christian romance, but I was intrigued by the early Mormon polygamist storyline so thought I would take a chance. I was pleasantly surprised.
This certainly wasn't what I would generally term romance, it was more the story of a relationship and although there was a Christian element, it was more to do with the main character Camilla's upbringing and faith than any attempt to preach or convert the reader. The book can be read purely as a historical account of one young woman's experience joining a Morman wagon train party, marrying a young man of that faith and eventually questioning her change of belief.
The historical setting was full of rich detail that I found fascinating and the writing was a joy to read. In this era of poorly edited Kindle offerings, I don't recall finding a single typo. Well done!
When I finished I immediatly purchased the sequel 'Forsaking All Others' and whist it was not quite as rivetting a story, I still found it very enjoyable.
This certainly wasn't what I would generally term romance, it was more the story of a relationship and although there was a Christian element, it was more to do with the main character Camilla's upbringing and faith than any attempt to preach or convert the reader. The book can be read purely as a historical account of one young woman's experience joining a Morman wagon train party, marrying a young man of that faith and eventually questioning her change of belief.
The historical setting was full of rich detail that I found fascinating and the writing was a joy to read. In this era of poorly edited Kindle offerings, I don't recall finding a single typo. Well done!
When I finished I immediatly purchased the sequel 'Forsaking All Others' and whist it was not quite as rivetting a story, I still found it very enjoyable.
November 5, 2011
Terrible book. She has no idea what she is talking about. Instead of trolling the ex-Mormon websites, she should have included some research in an actual Mormon church. The fact that she did not is glaringly obvious. Poorly done, poorly written.
April 20, 2019
Since becoming exmormon I've been loath to use the term "antimormon" but I'll use it for this book.
I was intrigued by protests of the author's use of exmormon forums for research. Despite this I ended up disappointed with the author's "research". The mormonism she portrayed was only somewhat accurate. For instance, Mormons do in fact read the bible. The author clearly had an antimormon pro-christian agenda and cherry picked what she chose to portray to make the mormons look bad.
I wouldn't even call this book a romance. Just straight up Christian Literature with a "mormons aren't christian" bias. I'm sorry I wasted hours of my life reading this drivel.
I was intrigued by protests of the author's use of exmormon forums for research. Despite this I ended up disappointed with the author's "research". The mormonism she portrayed was only somewhat accurate. For instance, Mormons do in fact read the bible. The author clearly had an antimormon pro-christian agenda and cherry picked what she chose to portray to make the mormons look bad.
I wouldn't even call this book a romance. Just straight up Christian Literature with a "mormons aren't christian" bias. I'm sorry I wasted hours of my life reading this drivel.
August 29, 2018
This was one of the most engrossing reads I've enjoyed this year. I seriously could not read fast enough to suit me. Allison Pittman continues to impress me with her versatility, integrity, and storytelling prowess. This particular story slayed me, for reasons you can probably guess if you've read the book description. Talk about high stakes--you can't get any higher than eternity! The author's note about her research and purpose at the end of the novel was illuminating. I would gush more about this amazing piece of historical fiction but I am dying to read the next book in the series!
March 20, 2013
I sped through this book in about 48 hours, and I'm not entirely sure what to write about it. I can't think of any flaws, but I think it'll take a while for the entire story to sink in. I don't often rush out and buy the sequel (student on a budget!) but I might just do that with this book. I adored Camilla's growth and her spiritual revelations felt so believable. Experiencing Camilla's growth alongside her and her struggles with the doctrine of her faith was both fascinating and heart-breaking. It was so difficult to read about her wanting to honour her husband and make him happy, but being unable to accept that him taking a second wife was God's will.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in polygamy (and its relevance to Mormonism) or just well-written historical fiction. Camilla's faith was so ingrained and relevant to her character growth that I think this book might even appeal to non-Christians, given the differences in faith between mainstream Christianity and Mormonism that are displayed in this book. I certainly learned a lot about Mormonism and the Book of Mormon. Allison Pittman definitely did her research! 5* for this wonderfully crafted novel.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in polygamy (and its relevance to Mormonism) or just well-written historical fiction. Camilla's faith was so ingrained and relevant to her character growth that I think this book might even appeal to non-Christians, given the differences in faith between mainstream Christianity and Mormonism that are displayed in this book. I certainly learned a lot about Mormonism and the Book of Mormon. Allison Pittman definitely did her research! 5* for this wonderfully crafted novel.
August 31, 2010
This book by Allison Pittman was my favorite read this year. Seriously, I loved it! It was one of those books that I carried around the house with me...every few minutes mattered. I think my 3 year old was neglected for, like, 3 days when I was reading this book. {grin}
I’m a pretty avid Historical Fiction reader and a Pittman fan, so when I heard that she was writing a book based on the history of the Mormon church, I was instantly intrigued. Two words consumed my mind...
Plural marriage!
I have a huge fascination with this culture of plural marriage and sister-wives. Not because I’m interested...oh no, but because I am so curious about how people, real men and real women, go about making these decisions. I devoured For Time & Eternity.
I’m not going to go into super detail of the story line so NO BIG SPOILERS here...but I do want to go into the way I was emotional reeled in with the writing and characters.
Camilla Deardon is a young girl at the outset. She knows that she is supposed to stay away from the Mormon camp but when she meets Nathan Fox, she can’t. Imagine being a lonesome 15 year old girl who suddenly is being charmed up & down, backwards & forwards by an attractive young man who has an entire family (his church) to offer. Everyone seems happy & cheerful, unlike her household where her father is unyieldingly strict and her mother is just a very dutiful mother, nothing more, nothing less. The companionship she feels with Nathan and the people he introduces her to were unlike anything she had ever experienced. ...and they are on their way to ZION.
What Pittman does so well is that you fall in love with Nathan along with Camilla. You know she shouldn’t let him dupe her but you can’t help but keep pushing her toward him. He’s handsome, charismatic, and completely smitten with the Mormon prophecy. She has never met someone so passionate about spirituality. Can you blame her near instantaneous love for Nathan and what he says he can provide her with? No...you can’t. Camilla is also so likable...sweet, naive, and longing to belong.
Camilla does go against her parents and runs away with Nathan. I was so invested at this point I couldn’t put the book down. The story moves forward rapidly here and she has been married for several years and has two daughters. She seems happy and still as in love as the day she met Nathan. Plural marriage is running rampant at this point and while she does not appreciate the practice, she also assumes that it won’t touch her life because she and Nathan are so in love. But, when Nathan and Camilla go through a devastating loss they both seem to reflect on their emotions, spirituality, and perspective...just as we all do in real life. As they consider their future they are suddenly on different planets, neither really understanding the other.
The wonderful thing about this story is that you can really put yourself into Camilla’s, and even Nathan’s, shoes. Camilla believing whole-heartedly that plural marriage is not right and you want to fight for her. But, Nathan is so lovable and charmingly handsome, you can see yourself swooning, lost in his gaze. You feel his loss, his hurt, and love for Camilla as much as you feel Camilla’s righteous anger about plural marriage. Pittman's writing is spot on. She owns the craft!
As the reader, you’ll have huge emotional reactions to names like Evangeline, Brigham Young, Rachel, and...AMANDA. Beautiful. Sweet. Innocent. Amanda.
And with that I will let you figure the rest out. I HIGHLY recommend this book. Extremely well-written. Well-rounded characters. Believable and superb story-line. Compelling.
In my opinion...best book of the year!
I’m a pretty avid Historical Fiction reader and a Pittman fan, so when I heard that she was writing a book based on the history of the Mormon church, I was instantly intrigued. Two words consumed my mind...
Plural marriage!
I have a huge fascination with this culture of plural marriage and sister-wives. Not because I’m interested...oh no, but because I am so curious about how people, real men and real women, go about making these decisions. I devoured For Time & Eternity.
I’m not going to go into super detail of the story line so NO BIG SPOILERS here...but I do want to go into the way I was emotional reeled in with the writing and characters.
Camilla Deardon is a young girl at the outset. She knows that she is supposed to stay away from the Mormon camp but when she meets Nathan Fox, she can’t. Imagine being a lonesome 15 year old girl who suddenly is being charmed up & down, backwards & forwards by an attractive young man who has an entire family (his church) to offer. Everyone seems happy & cheerful, unlike her household where her father is unyieldingly strict and her mother is just a very dutiful mother, nothing more, nothing less. The companionship she feels with Nathan and the people he introduces her to were unlike anything she had ever experienced. ...and they are on their way to ZION.
What Pittman does so well is that you fall in love with Nathan along with Camilla. You know she shouldn’t let him dupe her but you can’t help but keep pushing her toward him. He’s handsome, charismatic, and completely smitten with the Mormon prophecy. She has never met someone so passionate about spirituality. Can you blame her near instantaneous love for Nathan and what he says he can provide her with? No...you can’t. Camilla is also so likable...sweet, naive, and longing to belong.
Camilla does go against her parents and runs away with Nathan. I was so invested at this point I couldn’t put the book down. The story moves forward rapidly here and she has been married for several years and has two daughters. She seems happy and still as in love as the day she met Nathan. Plural marriage is running rampant at this point and while she does not appreciate the practice, she also assumes that it won’t touch her life because she and Nathan are so in love. But, when Nathan and Camilla go through a devastating loss they both seem to reflect on their emotions, spirituality, and perspective...just as we all do in real life. As they consider their future they are suddenly on different planets, neither really understanding the other.
The wonderful thing about this story is that you can really put yourself into Camilla’s, and even Nathan’s, shoes. Camilla believing whole-heartedly that plural marriage is not right and you want to fight for her. But, Nathan is so lovable and charmingly handsome, you can see yourself swooning, lost in his gaze. You feel his loss, his hurt, and love for Camilla as much as you feel Camilla’s righteous anger about plural marriage. Pittman's writing is spot on. She owns the craft!
As the reader, you’ll have huge emotional reactions to names like Evangeline, Brigham Young, Rachel, and...AMANDA. Beautiful. Sweet. Innocent. Amanda.
And with that I will let you figure the rest out. I HIGHLY recommend this book. Extremely well-written. Well-rounded characters. Believable and superb story-line. Compelling.
In my opinion...best book of the year!
September 11, 2010
Allison Pittman in her new book, "For Time & Eternity" Book One in The Sister Wife series published by Tyndale gives us an insight into the Mormon culture in a brand new and unique manner.
In 1850 Iowa at the Deardon dairy farm and Camilla Deardon hears the Mormons singing from their camp nearby. Even though she is a Christian and her father warns her to stay away from them it is the music and the sound of the familiar songs that draws her to their camp. It is there that she meets Nathan Fox and falls in love with him. Despite what her parents have to say Camilla leaves her home, marries Nathan and makes the trip with him and the others to Utah.
This is a story about a marriage between what starts out as a couple then grows when the decision is made that Mormon men are allowed to marry more than one woman. Camilla now has to learn to share her husband with other women who are also his wife. This is a story about the conflict between the Christian faith and Mormon beliefs. This is a frank exploration of a belief system that many of us know very little about. If you are like me you know about the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, you know that Mormons come to the door to evangelize and you know that their headquarters is in Utah. Outside of that my education in things Mormon was very limited.
Ms. Pittman is an accomplished writer who knows how to deliver true to life dialog and create characters that you fall in love with. Ms. Pittman has done an excellent job of research and show all points of view very fairly. This is an excellent read and a thought provoker. And it is only Book One in this new series. Book Two is due out in Summer 2011. Until then we have this first book.
To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Glass Road PR and Tyndale. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
In 1850 Iowa at the Deardon dairy farm and Camilla Deardon hears the Mormons singing from their camp nearby. Even though she is a Christian and her father warns her to stay away from them it is the music and the sound of the familiar songs that draws her to their camp. It is there that she meets Nathan Fox and falls in love with him. Despite what her parents have to say Camilla leaves her home, marries Nathan and makes the trip with him and the others to Utah.
This is a story about a marriage between what starts out as a couple then grows when the decision is made that Mormon men are allowed to marry more than one woman. Camilla now has to learn to share her husband with other women who are also his wife. This is a story about the conflict between the Christian faith and Mormon beliefs. This is a frank exploration of a belief system that many of us know very little about. If you are like me you know about the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, you know that Mormons come to the door to evangelize and you know that their headquarters is in Utah. Outside of that my education in things Mormon was very limited.
Ms. Pittman is an accomplished writer who knows how to deliver true to life dialog and create characters that you fall in love with. Ms. Pittman has done an excellent job of research and show all points of view very fairly. This is an excellent read and a thought provoker. And it is only Book One in this new series. Book Two is due out in Summer 2011. Until then we have this first book.
To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Glass Road PR and Tyndale. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
November 30, 2011
I really don't read much fiction any more, especially Christian fiction, which I have a general personal vendetta against - but because it was free on Kindle and about a topic I'm intrigued with at the moment (Mormonism), I gave it a read.
It was interesting. In fact, I liked it more than I thought I would - it wasn't well-written, but made a lot of interesting points. I think the part that stood out to me most was the part where Kimana (the Native American maid) makes the point to the main character that, had Jesus really come to the US as the Mormons teach, her people would have passed such a monumental story down through the generations.
I think I'd read the next books if the library would have them, but would never go out and buy them. Am mildly curious to know how she plans to wrap it all up.
Also really liked the author's little "interview" thing at the end of the book. It was nice to see her call Mormonism by its right name and not try to be all ecumenical about it. :-)
It was interesting. In fact, I liked it more than I thought I would - it wasn't well-written, but made a lot of interesting points. I think the part that stood out to me most was the part where Kimana (the Native American maid) makes the point to the main character that, had Jesus really come to the US as the Mormons teach, her people would have passed such a monumental story down through the generations.
I think I'd read the next books if the library would have them, but would never go out and buy them. Am mildly curious to know how she plans to wrap it all up.
Also really liked the author's little "interview" thing at the end of the book. It was nice to see her call Mormonism by its right name and not try to be all ecumenical about it. :-)
June 5, 2018
The story of Camilla Deardon is expertly documented as she leaves her Christian roots behind to follow the love of her life into the unknown territory of the Mormon Church. This novel is very well researched, and is an education into the mores of the Mormon faith. Character development is excellent, and the comparisons in the beliefs and practices in the Christian faith as compared to those of the Mormon church are precise. The beliefs of the Mormon faith are depicted in a factual manner, and wrapped into a fictional story that is believable and distressing at times. The author did a magnificent job of presenting facts with a very tactful technique, and I appreciate the education that I received from a beautifully written tale of spiritual battle. I am anticipating for the arrival of the sequel to this book!
Disclaimer: I obtained a copy of this book with no expectations for a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.
Disclaimer: I obtained a copy of this book with no expectations for a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.
November 3, 2019
At night, Camilla hears singing from people camping near her family's farm. Her parents forbid any contact, so when she meets a charming young man from the group, she questions their edict. Nathan entices Camilla to join them and marry him. Too late, she realizes their theology is not Christian - she's trapped in a cult. The church's requirement that it's men commit adultery is only the beginning.
This excellent portrayal of early Mormonism should be required reading for anyone who doesn't understand the difference between this group and Christianity.
This excellent portrayal of early Mormonism should be required reading for anyone who doesn't understand the difference between this group and Christianity.
January 30, 2024
i really wanted to know how it ended and how camilla got out but the ending itself actually kind of ruined the rest of the book for me, i didn’t get it.
July 16, 2023
Interesting premise, a new covert then grapples with her Moro, faith when her husband takes a second wife. But sometimes I felt the characters made extremely rash decisions and things were thought out fully before moving to the next thought. I will read the sequel though because I thought the general story was interesting.
September 10, 2010
From my book review blog Rundpinne.
"For Time & Eternity is the first book in Allison Pittman’s The Sister Wife Series. I have been fortunate enough to review other works by Pittman so it was with eagerness I began For Time & Eternity. Pittman takes the reader back to 1850 Iowa where young Camilla Deardon is being raised in a devoutly Christian household and yet is lured to the sounds of singing, which would be the Mormons making their way to Salt Lake City. Pittman captures the emotions of the time, the fear of the Mormons as well as misconceptions that existed during that time in history. Rather than focus on the Mormon progression, Pittman focuses on Camilla who defies her parents to be with Nathan, a Mormon who is heading to Utah. Pittman does a superb job at conveying the thoughts, perceptions and misperceptions of Christians and Mormons. Her story line is solid and her characters are well crafted. Pittman’s writing style is beautiful and strong, easily making the reader feel as though they are in the 19th century with Camilla and Nathan. My heart went out to the Deardon family and to Camilla. I will need to wait until the release of the next book in the series, Forsaking All Others in 2011 to find out if my hopes for Camilla come true. For Time & Eternity is a novel I would recommend to anyone looking for a good story steeped in history."
"For Time & Eternity is the first book in Allison Pittman’s The Sister Wife Series. I have been fortunate enough to review other works by Pittman so it was with eagerness I began For Time & Eternity. Pittman takes the reader back to 1850 Iowa where young Camilla Deardon is being raised in a devoutly Christian household and yet is lured to the sounds of singing, which would be the Mormons making their way to Salt Lake City. Pittman captures the emotions of the time, the fear of the Mormons as well as misconceptions that existed during that time in history. Rather than focus on the Mormon progression, Pittman focuses on Camilla who defies her parents to be with Nathan, a Mormon who is heading to Utah. Pittman does a superb job at conveying the thoughts, perceptions and misperceptions of Christians and Mormons. Her story line is solid and her characters are well crafted. Pittman’s writing style is beautiful and strong, easily making the reader feel as though they are in the 19th century with Camilla and Nathan. My heart went out to the Deardon family and to Camilla. I will need to wait until the release of the next book in the series, Forsaking All Others in 2011 to find out if my hopes for Camilla come true. For Time & Eternity is a novel I would recommend to anyone looking for a good story steeped in history."
November 12, 2011
I debated back and forth between two stars and three. The circumstances driving the plot alone deserve a good rating just because this is a fantastic set-up for some fantastic conflict, both internal and external. It's also in the story's favor that it's a love story, but not necessarily a romance (rare in the Christian chick-lit genre).
Sadly, although I didn't overtly dislike the book, neither the writing nor the development rate three stars. I do, however, offer Pittman kudos for doing something different in the genre of Christian historical fiction. Although I'm curious to see how the conflict will be resolved, I'm unlikely to read the second in the series unless it's eventually offered free for Kindle downloads (as was this one).
Sadly, although I didn't overtly dislike the book, neither the writing nor the development rate three stars. I do, however, offer Pittman kudos for doing something different in the genre of Christian historical fiction. Although I'm curious to see how the conflict will be resolved, I'm unlikely to read the second in the series unless it's eventually offered free for Kindle downloads (as was this one).
November 16, 2011
I struggled with this book because I felt it got way too preachy. I understand that it is a Christian fiction book, but it was heavy handed. I have a hard time enjoying a book when the author is constantly interrupting the flow of the story in order to push her message. Perhaps the books later in the series are more refined, but I don’t think I will put myself through reading them to find out. The ending is very bizarre and doesn't fit with the retrospective aspect of the begining of the book.
January 14, 2013
I enjoyed this book quite a bit although my heart ached for Camilla. The author made my emotions come alive while reading and as much as this book made me frustrated, happy, anger, sad, warm and confused (i didn't understand mormon) it was an excellent read. I would recommend this book to any person that likes religious/Christian books. Even Mormon religion. Just prepare yourself for the ride and I can't wait to read the next book.
May 16, 2012
Well written, however the subject matter disturbed me. It's a take on a controversial part of Mormon history from an outside perspective (non-mormon)...which I am always open to...however, I didn't love the ending and was left feeling very unsettled. Then again...I'm the fairy-tale-ending-romantic at heart.
February 11, 2013
This had promise-knowing the subject matter i tried to keep
an open mind but seeing how the heroine changes in the book
made this difficult to do. The plot itself twists and turns
so much that it becomes a strain to read it through.
The ending well....felt like i was dropped off the edge
of a cliff with no warning.
an open mind but seeing how the heroine changes in the book
made this difficult to do. The plot itself twists and turns
so much that it becomes a strain to read it through.
The ending well....felt like i was dropped off the edge
of a cliff with no warning.
February 12, 2012
This book was soooooo disrespectful and missleading. I was pulled into this book by it's great beginning only to be disgusted by it's terrible portrail of the "Mormon" church.
skipped-it
December 5, 2024Content Rating: ❌ (estimated)
Language: none
Violence: some
Sex/Nudity: moderate
Other: misrepresentation of the LDS faith
My Review
I haven't read this, nor will I. No religion or group likes to be misrepresented, so it’s a shame that the “Mormons” are misrepresented in this book. To put a few things straight:
1. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prefer not to be called Mormons. This is explained, along with other common questions, here. Though historically, they were called Mormons, so I can let that pass for historical accuracy.
2. Latter-day Saints are Christians. Christ’s name is in the full name of the Church.
3. Plural marriage is part of the Church’s history, yes, but it is no longer practiced. Latter-day Saints strongly believe in marriage between one man and one woman.
Anyone who has more questions should look to accurate sources. comeuntochrist.org is a good place to start.
Find clean reads here: Homerun Reads (Notion)
Follow me to easily see my content reviews (if available) when you look up books here on Goodreads.
Language: none
Violence: some
Sex/Nudity: moderate
Other: misrepresentation of the LDS faith
My Review
I haven't read this, nor will I. No religion or group likes to be misrepresented, so it’s a shame that the “Mormons” are misrepresented in this book. To put a few things straight:
1. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prefer not to be called Mormons. This is explained, along with other common questions, here. Though historically, they were called Mormons, so I can let that pass for historical accuracy.
2. Latter-day Saints are Christians. Christ’s name is in the full name of the Church.
3. Plural marriage is part of the Church’s history, yes, but it is no longer practiced. Latter-day Saints strongly believe in marriage between one man and one woman.
Anyone who has more questions should look to accurate sources. comeuntochrist.org is a good place to start.
Find clean reads here: Homerun Reads (Notion)
Follow me to easily see my content reviews (if available) when you look up books here on Goodreads.
February 21, 2012
From my blog: http://books-camilleelise4.blogspot.com
For Time & Eternity by Allison Pittman
I was lucky enough to snag this when it was a Kindle Freebie on Amazon. If you were lucky enough to get it too, I highly recommend you read it now!
Camilla Deardon knows very little of the Mormons camped nearby her home, except that her parents have warned her to stay far away. And that her parents do not consider the Mormons Christian.
Camilla, who is being raised in a very religious household, studies the Bible every night, and write a verse from each chapter down each night after her studies, a task she hates, even though she loves the Lord.
But then she meets the very handsome and quite personable Nathan Fox. He is charming, although a bit forward, and Camilla and Nathan quickly strike up a friendship over a very short amount of time. So she ignores her parents warnings and instructions to stay away and on the eve of the Mormons leaving to head west to Utah, Camilla must make a last minute choice. Stay on the dock and go home with her very angry father, or jump onto the boat, and take a leap of faith with Nathan. So, she jumps.
Madly in love with Nathan, the two marry immediately and settle into a life in Utah, and over the course of the next few years, they have two beautiful daughters. But when Camilla gives birth to a son who does not live, her faith is irreparably cracked. Now, she finds herself questioning the rash decision she made years earlier to flee with Nathan. Her parents do not answer her letters; they all come back returned, unopened, and she finds herself questioning the tenets of the LDS faith.
But when it becomes clear Nathan is considering the ultimate betrayal to Camilla, taking a second wife, she just cannot pretend to be a Saint any longer.
Yet Camilla still loves Nathan, and if she leaves the law says she must leave her daughters behind. And as a mother that is an extremely high price to pay, especially when she considers that leaving them behind risks their eternal souls as they are being led down a path of false religion by their father.
Will Camilla stay with a man who has betrayed her and fallen for another woman, and taken her on as another wife? Will she stay to be with her daughters? Or will she leave, and hope that God finds a way to save her daughters from their father too...
Read For Time & Eternity to find out!
I'm absolutely fascinated by the plight of women either drawn into or raised in polygamy. It's so easy to empathize with their situation as I imagine how it would be to share a man with another woman, and have to support it. For me, it would be living in a nightmare.
I have read several memoirs of women who have escaped modern-day polygamy where they were forced to be child brides to much older men. You can click here to read those reviews.
To read a fictional account of historical polygamy was really interesting for me. Polygamy back then is vastly different than the polygamy within the FLDS today. For example, Camilla had the right to refuse her husband's request to take a second wife. But realistically, with the pressures these women were put under, "It will glorify our eternal family but only if I can take a multiple wife" what chance did she, or other women truly have? Maybe they could object to a particular woman, but realistically, they would end up with sister-wives anyway...
I want to make a quick disclaimer here that while polygamy was part of the LDS practices back in the 1800s, it is no longer part of the LDS faith. Those who practice modern-day polygamy are FLDS (Fundamentalist Latter-Day Saints). Of course there are all different FLDS sects, everything from those trapped under the tyranny of Warren Jeffs, where women are married off at 12 to someone 85, to those featured on the TLC show Sister Wives, where only consenting adults choose to enter a polygamous marriage. Personally I despise the former and while I would never choose the latter for myself, I respect their right to familial privacy.
Camilla Deardon was a bit of a confusing character. It almost felt like she didn't age throughout the book even though at the beginning she was a teenager, and by the end it was at least 6 or 7 years later and she was a full-grown woman with two children. She chose the path of following Brigham Young and going with the Saints to Utah, but changed her mind part-way through. Granted, polygamy wasn't out in the open when she was baptized, but by the end she had such a disdain for the LDS faith and the Book of Mormon it's hard to believe she ever could have been ok with the teachings at all.
But I could still feel for her when she felt so utterly betrayed by Nathan upon his choosing to marry a second wife. While she technically had the power to refuse his request, she was under so much pressure to say yes, that she really had no power at all. After all she was supposed to obey her husband without questioning...
I enjoyed the read, however. It was hard to put down, and I found myself staying up later than I should have just to read more. While not my favorite polygamy read, it was really fascinating nonetheless to read the historical aspect of polygamy. Personally, I find memoirs to be more compelling reads because you know that an actual woman went through these experiences, horrifying and terrifying. That makes my heart break so much more than a fictional account.
What I can say, based on my own research, is that the author, Allison Pittman, did a fantastic job researching the LDS faith. She was very on-track with explaining many of their beliefs throughout the book, both historical and modern. The one thing I didn't like was that at the very end, reading the authors comments on writing the book, she came across exceptionally hostile to the LDS. Very judgmentally so. While I am not LDS, and personally do not agree with many of their tenets, I found her utter lack of respect a bit distasteful. It almost felt hateful, the way she feels towards the LDS, which I felt was inappropriate as a Christian, charged to love others. I personally believe that many if not most LDS members are good people with good hearts, and that's what is truly important in God's eyes...
I definitely will be picking up the second (and final) book in the series to read the conclusion of Camilla's tale.
3.5 out of 5 stars!
For Time & Eternity by Allison Pittman
I was lucky enough to snag this when it was a Kindle Freebie on Amazon. If you were lucky enough to get it too, I highly recommend you read it now!
Camilla Deardon knows very little of the Mormons camped nearby her home, except that her parents have warned her to stay far away. And that her parents do not consider the Mormons Christian.
Camilla, who is being raised in a very religious household, studies the Bible every night, and write a verse from each chapter down each night after her studies, a task she hates, even though she loves the Lord.
But then she meets the very handsome and quite personable Nathan Fox. He is charming, although a bit forward, and Camilla and Nathan quickly strike up a friendship over a very short amount of time. So she ignores her parents warnings and instructions to stay away and on the eve of the Mormons leaving to head west to Utah, Camilla must make a last minute choice. Stay on the dock and go home with her very angry father, or jump onto the boat, and take a leap of faith with Nathan. So, she jumps.
Madly in love with Nathan, the two marry immediately and settle into a life in Utah, and over the course of the next few years, they have two beautiful daughters. But when Camilla gives birth to a son who does not live, her faith is irreparably cracked. Now, she finds herself questioning the rash decision she made years earlier to flee with Nathan. Her parents do not answer her letters; they all come back returned, unopened, and she finds herself questioning the tenets of the LDS faith.
But when it becomes clear Nathan is considering the ultimate betrayal to Camilla, taking a second wife, she just cannot pretend to be a Saint any longer.
Yet Camilla still loves Nathan, and if she leaves the law says she must leave her daughters behind. And as a mother that is an extremely high price to pay, especially when she considers that leaving them behind risks their eternal souls as they are being led down a path of false religion by their father.
Will Camilla stay with a man who has betrayed her and fallen for another woman, and taken her on as another wife? Will she stay to be with her daughters? Or will she leave, and hope that God finds a way to save her daughters from their father too...
Read For Time & Eternity to find out!
I'm absolutely fascinated by the plight of women either drawn into or raised in polygamy. It's so easy to empathize with their situation as I imagine how it would be to share a man with another woman, and have to support it. For me, it would be living in a nightmare.
I have read several memoirs of women who have escaped modern-day polygamy where they were forced to be child brides to much older men. You can click here to read those reviews.
To read a fictional account of historical polygamy was really interesting for me. Polygamy back then is vastly different than the polygamy within the FLDS today. For example, Camilla had the right to refuse her husband's request to take a second wife. But realistically, with the pressures these women were put under, "It will glorify our eternal family but only if I can take a multiple wife" what chance did she, or other women truly have? Maybe they could object to a particular woman, but realistically, they would end up with sister-wives anyway...
I want to make a quick disclaimer here that while polygamy was part of the LDS practices back in the 1800s, it is no longer part of the LDS faith. Those who practice modern-day polygamy are FLDS (Fundamentalist Latter-Day Saints). Of course there are all different FLDS sects, everything from those trapped under the tyranny of Warren Jeffs, where women are married off at 12 to someone 85, to those featured on the TLC show Sister Wives, where only consenting adults choose to enter a polygamous marriage. Personally I despise the former and while I would never choose the latter for myself, I respect their right to familial privacy.
Camilla Deardon was a bit of a confusing character. It almost felt like she didn't age throughout the book even though at the beginning she was a teenager, and by the end it was at least 6 or 7 years later and she was a full-grown woman with two children. She chose the path of following Brigham Young and going with the Saints to Utah, but changed her mind part-way through. Granted, polygamy wasn't out in the open when she was baptized, but by the end she had such a disdain for the LDS faith and the Book of Mormon it's hard to believe she ever could have been ok with the teachings at all.
But I could still feel for her when she felt so utterly betrayed by Nathan upon his choosing to marry a second wife. While she technically had the power to refuse his request, she was under so much pressure to say yes, that she really had no power at all. After all she was supposed to obey her husband without questioning...
I enjoyed the read, however. It was hard to put down, and I found myself staying up later than I should have just to read more. While not my favorite polygamy read, it was really fascinating nonetheless to read the historical aspect of polygamy. Personally, I find memoirs to be more compelling reads because you know that an actual woman went through these experiences, horrifying and terrifying. That makes my heart break so much more than a fictional account.
What I can say, based on my own research, is that the author, Allison Pittman, did a fantastic job researching the LDS faith. She was very on-track with explaining many of their beliefs throughout the book, both historical and modern. The one thing I didn't like was that at the very end, reading the authors comments on writing the book, she came across exceptionally hostile to the LDS. Very judgmentally so. While I am not LDS, and personally do not agree with many of their tenets, I found her utter lack of respect a bit distasteful. It almost felt hateful, the way she feels towards the LDS, which I felt was inappropriate as a Christian, charged to love others. I personally believe that many if not most LDS members are good people with good hearts, and that's what is truly important in God's eyes...
I definitely will be picking up the second (and final) book in the series to read the conclusion of Camilla's tale.
3.5 out of 5 stars!
June 4, 2024
Camilla is a strong, Christian character who follows her heart, along with a group of pioneers to the Utah territory. On the way, she is converted to the Mormon faith and is marry to her teenage sweetheart. Years later as a mother of two, she loses her son days after his birth. Afterwards she struggles with her belief in the religion which puts her at odds with her husband and the community.
I found my mind wandering at times and had to go back to read some paragraphs. There is not an end to the story which is frustrating. I am not sure I will read the next book to find out what happens to Camilla.
This book is not meant for LDS members as it slights the religion and Joseph Smith.
I found my mind wandering at times and had to go back to read some paragraphs. There is not an end to the story which is frustrating. I am not sure I will read the next book to find out what happens to Camilla.
This book is not meant for LDS members as it slights the religion and Joseph Smith.
January 11, 2023
Bummer… Terrible sad/abrupt ending 😥
Great story regarding Mormon verses Bible religion. Multiple wife’s/called sisters to other wife’s.
Camilla, taught strictly from the Bible, meets/marries Nathan, a Mormon as a teen. Later, after relocating to Utah and children Camilla realizes she cannot worship as a Mormon, teach her girls false religion.
Forced to leave without her children, sadly.
ForTime&Eternity book profound comments:
~ Their marriage entered a new season of silence.
~Native Kamina’s comment: My people are wise because we seek little so we can listen to the voice of creation.
Great story regarding Mormon verses Bible religion. Multiple wife’s/called sisters to other wife’s.
Camilla, taught strictly from the Bible, meets/marries Nathan, a Mormon as a teen. Later, after relocating to Utah and children Camilla realizes she cannot worship as a Mormon, teach her girls false religion.
Forced to leave without her children, sadly.
ForTime&Eternity book profound comments:
~ Their marriage entered a new season of silence.
~Native Kamina’s comment: My people are wise because we seek little so we can listen to the voice of creation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews