Mutiny of the Heart

Windswept Wedding #1

by Vickie McDonough

Heather has no reason to like Lucas Reed.

Lucas Reed deserted Deborah, Heather Hawthorne's unwed cousin, when Deborah become pregnant with his child. He is an American whose fight for liberty from England ruined her family's wealth and led to her father's death. But Deborah's dying wish is that Heather take little Jamie to his father in Charleston.

Ever since his one true love, Deborah, mysteriously disappeared, Lucas has avoided romantic entanglements. But that was before Heather appeared with Jamie - and a letter from Deborah revealing that Lucas's pirate brother, Marcus, had kidnapped her and fathered Jamie. Acceding to Deborah's desire to protect Jaime from being maligned as a pirate's child, Lucas claims him as his son.

As they work together to build a new life for Jamie, can Heather and Lucas resist their growing attraction, or will mutinous hearts finally admit their love when an enemy's desperate plot threatens their very lives?

Genres: Romance, Inspirational, Historical

176 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2010

About the author

Over 1.5 million books sold!

Bestselling author Vickie McDonough grew up wanting to marry a rancher, but instead, she married a computer geek who is scared of horses. She now lives out her dreams penning romance stories about ranchers, cowboys, lawmen, and others living in the Old West. Vickie is a best-selling author of more than 50 published books and novellas, with over 1.5 million copies sold. Her novels include End of the Trail, winner of the OWFI 2013 Booksellers Best Fiction Novel Award. Whispers on the Prairie was a Romantic Times Recommended Inspirational Book for July 2013. Song of the Prairie won the 2015 Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Gabriel’s Atonement, book 1 in the Land Rush Dreams series, placed second in the 2016 Will Rogers Medallion Award. Vickie has recently stepped into independent publishing.

Vickie has been married for forty-one years to Robert. They have four grown sons, one daughter-in-law, and a precocious granddaughter. When she’s not writing, Vickie enjoys reading, antiquing, doing stained glass, watching movies, and traveling. To learn more about Vickie’s books or to sign up for her newsletter, visit her website: www.vickiemcdonough.com

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Odd little story. I couldn't ever really get to the point where I really believed what was going on; just when I would get to thinking I knew the characters, something else would happen. There was a triple batch of melodrama with a super-bad villain and the characters were just so one- or two-dimensional that they hardly seemed to show any signs of life--just the actions the author attributed to them.

There was some great historical research done, but the characters still seemed to be thinking and often acting with a 21st-century mindset instead of an 18th. Because of this, they ended up logically in a couple situations that would probably never have happened.

At least it was short and worked for a challenge!

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in 1788, Heather brings her deceased cousin’s son, Jamie, to America to be with his father. A father who doesn’t know of Jamie’s existence, and one Heather is only bringing his son to because of her cousin’s dying wishes. She thinks him horrible for getting her cousin pregnant out of wedlock and fleeing. Lucas gets an unexpected arrival to his home. A woman is claiming he is the father of a boy who is the spitting image of him. Of course, he put that sort of life behind him long before this boy was born so there was no way he belongs to him. However, Heather presents a letter given to her by the boys mother. The boy belongs to a woman he loved, but the father is his twin brother. The letter instructs him to take the boy as his own son and never tell who the real father is or the boy could face scrutiny and danger. Lucas then accepts Jamie as his son. And asks Heather to stay for a while and be his governess. Heather agrees and as she gets to know Lucas better she is confused as to how kind Lucas could be the same man who treated her cousin so poorly.
I absolutely loved this story! It was just wonderful! The writing was so smooth and made for easy reading. I loved these characters so much. Lucas was such a great and kind man. To take on Jamie as his own son was just so loving and caring. He of course also protects Jamie from his horrible real father. Heather is very loving towards Jamie too. I loved watching her learn to trust Lucas. Their relationship was beautiful. I also enjoyed Jamie and Lucas’s mom. There is great Christian content in this story! Including Heather accepting Jesus. Overall, a fantastic story and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Jennifer Hibdon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keeping a Hard Promise.
What a story!!!! Wealth, genteel ladies, fancy dresses, Charleston & plantations, swashbuckling pirates, drama. God's love, leading and acceptance. The ending was not what I expected. Cannot wait to read book 2!
I love Vickie McDonough books!!!!

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Romance

This was a wonderful story! About the only thing I didn't like about it, was it resembled the modern popular theme of Billionaire Romance which I refuse to read. Lucas's wealth is part of the storyline though, and a major cause of conflict with his brother, so it needs to be there for this story, but it's definitely not a theme I prefer. But, otherwise Lucas is a wonderful, upright, kind, respectful, handsome, and strong Christian man, that any woman would fall for with or without his wealth. Heather is a devoted, sweet, tender, loving woman who adores her charge and she is easy to admire, despite her lack of fortune. This tale is never something I could have invented, but the story was intriguing, romantic, with a bit of suspense and mystery, all rolled together nicely with a strong Christian thread that seemed natural instead of forced! Well written, the perfect length, and while I can't understand how the series could continue, I'm looking forward to enjoying every single story! Thank you!

[Kendra Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christian Historical Romance is a favorite genre of mine. Mutiny of the Heart by Vickie McDonough is Book 1 in the Windswept Wedding Series and I recently had the opportunity to read it.

I will say that this storyline took me a couple of chapters to really get into. The setting is 1788 in Charleston, South Carolina. The main characters are Heather Hawthorne and Lucas Reed. Heather made a promise to her cousin, before she died, that she would take care of her son Jamie by reuniting the young lad with his father. Lucas Reed lives in South Carolina and Heather makes the trip from Canada to reunite Jamie with Lucas. Lucas is not so happy to see Heather and he tries to shut the door when they arrive. Lucas is shocked when he reads the letter from Jamie's mom, and there is no denying that Jamie is blood family. The storyline really becomes interesting at this point with Lucas taking Jamie and Heather into his home and overtime really getting to know them. I really LOVE that Heather and Lucas really want the best for Jamie. Through their working together for Jamie, they realize they are falling for one another. Lucas is a man of Faith and it truly shows in his LOVE for Heather and Jamie. The book has some unexpected twists and turns and made it exciting to read. The storyline made sense after Chapter 2 for me and I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoy Christian Contempory Romance GREAT BOOK!

[Maria Thomas · Rating 2 out of 5]

I won this book in a giveaway and wanted to like it more than I did. I liked the first half better than the last half which felt somewhat unrealistic and melodramatic. I don't know much about the time period and the area because I read more in 1800's England but it seemed like people were awfully accepting about things that I would think would be scandal fodder. Maybe that is my own ignorance. And I had a hard time accepting that Lucas would respond to a crisis as he did even temporarily. And the story in general was predictable. I knew what the crisis would be early on.

I liked Lucas and wanted him to succeed in difficult circumstances through out the book. And I liked his mother. I felt somewhat indifferent to Heather as a love interest. I had a hard time feeling their connection but I was happy to have a happily ever after for them.

Looking at the author's list of books, reviews and number of books sold I have to believe that I might like other works by her better.

The book is heavy with Christian themes. If you don't like Christian lit this isn't the book for you.

Sex: no. Some innuendo
Language: no
Violence: yes. Woman knocked out. Sword fight with pirates, References to a rape that occurred before the book starts. Boy's life threatened with a knife.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twin brothers, one good, the other bad destined to come to heads as too many secrets and betrayals lay between them. Heather has been caring for her cousin's son, Jamie, after her death and has promised to take him back to his father. Except that his father knows nothing of him. Bound with only a promise and a letter, Heather and Jamie make the arduous journey to reunite father and son.

Lucas Reed is shocked with the news that he has a son, and for good reason. His missing beloved has died and passes along the secret that they now share so that his evil twin will not find out about Jamie. What a situation Lucas finds himself in looking into the eyes of his brother's son. However, he is bound and determined to face the stigma and gossip and raise Jamie as his own knowing the secret could be devastating for Jamie. Now if only he could get Heather to remain, especially since he is falling in love with her.

This story was full of a family feud, romance, sword fighting, danger, and pirates. It was quite an adventure, and it was just the sort of story I really enjoy. This is the kickoff to more Reed family stories.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Donna C · Rating 5 out of 5]

What you should know:

Mutiny of The Heart is a Christian Historical Fiction by Vickie McDonough, It is the first book in the Windswept Wedding series. This book is set in Charleston South Carolina in 1788, it features Charleston Native Lucas Reed and Heather Hawthorne.


What You might need to know:

This book is set in post Revolutionary war America, Heather’s family was English and supported England in the War and lost everything because of it.


What I think about this book:

As a Carolina girl with a family roots that run deep I love a chance to read historical fiction that gives me a glimpse of what life could have been like for them. Heather was such an interesting character, she came to Charleston determined to hate it and with an anger towards its people due to her family being on the side of the English. However Lucas showed such love and acceptance towards Jamie that Heather was intrigued to learn more. Lucas was easily my favorite character in this book. While he was willing to admit he had not always lived for Christ he strived to be a man of integrity. If you are a fan of historical fiction and enjoy unexpected twists this is a wonderful book. I look forward to the next book in the series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own

[Courtney Ranger · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vickie McDonough's Mutiny of the Heart was a historical fiction novel with an interesting premise and lots of potential.

Heather has the rough job of getting a man to accept his illegitimate son, despite her own desire to keep the little boy herself. Heather is kind and protective and wants to do what is best for those she cares about.

Lucas has secrets, but still feels responsibility to the little boy Heather claims is his son. Lucas is attracted to Heather and is determined to protect those under his care.

This book was really interesting, the conflict between Lucas and the villain was quite intriguing and kept me eager to hear what would happen. I really wanted the villain to get a redemption arc since his character was one of the most fascinating to me.

My biggest complaint was about the little boy. He was supposed to be five years old, but at times he felt as old as an eleven year old. Children are incredibly difficult to write, but I think Jamie's speech was a little too precocious for his age.

Overall, Mutiny of the Heart was an intriguing story with fascinating characters.

I received an advance copy of this book. My opinions are my own. A Positive review was not required.

[Janene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5 stars

What engaged me in the story:

• I liked that the story took place about five years after the American Revolutionary War ended.
• The author caught my attention right from the beginning and drew me into the story with how hard Heather's and Jamie's situation was.
• Heather and Lucus were characters that you wanted to discover more about as you read their story.
• Their attraction to each other and their love grew at a reasonable rate.
• The minor players in the story were well developed and added depth to the storyline.
• The descriptions of locations and emotions were well done, easy to visualize, and to feel. I felt a part of the scenes.
• The pacing of the story was neither too slow nor too fast.
• There was a smooth, coherent flow to this book.
• This is a historical Christian romance and religion is heavily featured throughout the book. If you are not religious, this might turn you off to the book.
• The author presented a well-crafted enjoyable story. It kept my interest from the beginning until the end.

I was given a free copy of this book from the author. My review was voluntary and my opinions were my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mutiny of the Heart by Vickie McDonough is a Christian Historical Fiction novel. Heather Hawthorne finds herself honoring her cousin’s last wish by taking her cousin’s young son to his father. However, Luke Reed refuses to believe her until she shares a letter in handwriting he never expected to see again.

As the two get to know each other as they work to make a new life for Jamie, they find themselves developing feelings for each other. With a plantation, beautiful scenery, pirates, a twin brother, and more his book will keep you reading.

I loved getting to know Heather, Luke, Jamie, and the other characters I felt like the author developed a storyline and character I enjoyed reading. As I read more in the book, I found myself unable to put the book down. The details and descriptions helped make this story memorable.

Once I began reading this book, I found myself unable to put this book down. So if you want a Christian Historical Fiction novel, check out Mutiny of the Heart by Vickie McDonough.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Romance

This was a wonderful story! About the only thing I didn't like about it, was it resembled the modern popular theme of Billionaire Romance which I refuse to read. Lucas's wealth is part of the storyline though, and a major cause of conflict with his brother, so it needs to be there for this story, but it's definitely not a theme I prefer. But, otherwise Lucas is a wonderful, upright, kind, respectful, handsome, and strong Christian man, that any woman would fall for with or without his wealth. Heather is a devoted, sweet, tender, loving woman who adores her charge and she is easy to admire, despite her lack of fortune. This tale is never something I could have invented, but the story was intriguing, romantic, with a bit of suspense and mystery, all rolled together nicely with a strong Christian thread that seemed natural instead of forced! Well written, the perfect length, and while I can't understand how the series could continue, I'm looking forward to enjoying every single story! Thank you!

[Phyllis Rundell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mutiny of the Heart is Book 1 in the series Windswept Weddings and is a historical Christian romance. The author has certainly done a considerable amount of research of the time period the story is set in. The main characters are Heather, Lucas and Jamie, and the character development is outstanding. The story mainly takes place on a plantation in South Carolina that belongs to Lucas' family. This is a story of suspense, mystery, surprises, drama, danger, unsavory characters, romance and a Christian thread throughout. As Heather and Lucas work through their shared loss of Heather's cousin and attempt to resolve the guardianship of Jamie and what is best for him, much drama takes place. As the couple become more attracted to each other, will they be able to resolve all of their difficulties and differences and find their very own HEA or will they be forced to go their separate ways. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next two in the series. Don't miss this one, I know you will enjoy it.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mutiny of the Heart is such an amazing story! It brings to mind the Scripture verse that states all things work together for the good.

I adore the main characters, Heather and Lucas! Especially Lucas. He’s mega-wealthy, but his charm comes from his heart and faith. And I like how Heather’s preconceived notions begin to wane, and that she finds a wealth of unexpected treasures (in a sense.)

Honestly, I feel the less you know about the details of the story, the better. With elements of faith, romance, healing, and salvation, this is a quick read with plenty of depth and a satisfying conclusion.

First Line: Heather Hawthorne gazed at the monstrous homes of Charleston as another wave of doubt slammed into her with the full force of a hurricane.
Series: Windswept Weddings, book 1
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Author: Vickie McDonough
Page Count: 188

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the characters in this story. They all seemed realistic to the time period. Even though Lucas Reed was very wealthy, his heart was lost to one woman whom he hadn't seen in years. He had tried to find her but hadn't been successful. When Heather shows up at his door in Charleston with a boy who looks just like the Reeds, claiming that it's his son, he thinks she is just after his money. He's never met this woman in his life! But then she shows him a letter that makes the boy's existence undeniable... However, if he claims the boy, his reputation will be shredded but he must keep the boy away from his true father and claim him as his own.
Heather can't bear to part with the boy since she practically raised him but there's no way she can stay either, unless...
I liked the danger, the romance and the secondary characters too! The faith element was very strong also.

[April Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucas is a steadfast, honorable man since God changed his heart. He takes Jamie as his own son despite the heartache that came with the truth. But he must be always alert to the danger coming toward his home. Heather has long harbored disdain for the American colonists and for Lucas Reed. When she gives her heart over to God, she learns to let Him help her forgive and finds the peace she has sought.

I found this a fairly quick and easy read. The story flows well; their feelings for each other develop swiftly. Jamie is a gentle touch to the plot. There is friendship, danger, heartbreak, broken family relationships, loneliness, healing, and salvation. It was an interesting read, not the typical secret child plot.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather traveled to Charleston, SC after scrimping for several years to take young Jamie to his father, ended up with more she could had imagined. Lucas Reed read the letter and accepted Jamie as his own son, while appealing to Heather to stay on to care for Jamie while he searched for a governess. The vivid scenes of plantation and city life during 1788 brought the story to life with the author’s research. A celebration turned into intense drama as the story unfolded with lives being threatened. Who’s going to be the real winner in this Christian Historical Romance novella with opposing views of the recent war and lifestyles?

I received an early copy of this book from Wild Heart Books and Celebrate Lit Bloggers tour. I have expressed my own thoughts.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Mutiny of the Heart" by Vickie McDonough was a good read. The book dealt with betrayal and what could and does happen a lot when a father's love is withhold. There is a little bit of violence talked about in the book and a young child is threatened but I still recommend this book. This is a clean romance that starts out with the two main characters being enemies. There are a couple of young children that are found alone and I hope we learn more about them in future books in this series. I am waiting for future books in this series, and I recommend this book. The Gospel is shared without being preachy in this book.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own

[Betti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heather Hawthorne saved all her money, left her home in Canada to bring her nephew, Jamie, to his father in Charleston, SC. It was 1788 and with her English background, this was a scary place to be - but she had promised her cousin to bring the boy to his father. Will the boy be accepted or will they have to return to Canada?

A story of a broken heart, finally made whole, identical twin brothers who were only identical in looks, pirates and more. Get ready for plenty of excitement as Charleston meets Heather and Jamie.

This copy of Windswept Weddings #1 was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Psusan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mutiny of the Heart by Vickie McDonough is a story of opposites, at least in politics and opinions on so many things. Yet, the worst is that there are also misconceptions that can’t be made right or understood until Heather is able to meet Lucas face-to-face. Taking place a few years after the US Revolutionary War the historical research great with clear reasons and perspectives of why so many are still unhappy about the outcome. As for the romance a young baby boy and his welfare is part of how it comes to be because he is the reason Heather and Lucas meet. An interesting thought provoking Christian historical fiction novel.

[Wendy Andrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mutiny of the Heart is book 1 of the series, "Windswept Weddings," and is set a few years after the American Resolution. It has some elements of the story of Jacob and Esau, or Joseph and his brothers. It's hard when a parent favors a child over the rest of his or her children.

This is a captivating story, from beginning to end. I found myself rooting for Heather and Lucas, and little Jamie, hoping things would turn out "right" in the end. I'm sure you will, too.

If you enjoy historical fiction, with a touch of faith and a dose of romance, you will want to grab your own copy and give this a read.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a good story with interesting characters and plot. I liked how accepting Lucas was of Heather and Jamie and how he was willing to do the best by them. I liked how the romance between Heather and Lucas grew as they spent time together and connected in their love for Jamie. I also liked seeing them grow in their faith and how that allowed them to trust that things would turn out alright in the end. I thought the writing was good and would like to read more books by this author.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mutiny of the heart

I loved Lucas, Heather and Jamie. They were all great characters. Heather brings Jamie to Lucas unexpectedly with news. I love how Lucas takes the news. I loved the Christian aspect of the story. This is a book I could read again. This book is the first in a series, I am looking forward to reading the next book.

I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a reprint of a Heartsong Presents novel from 2011 by the same name. The series is called Windswept Weddings. I enjoyed reading the book – great characters, good Biblical morals and teaching, and just the right amount of tension due to a swashbuckling pirate. I look forward to the rest of the series.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

1788. The nation is young, barely out of the throws of the revolution. A time exists when pirates and British warships roam the Atlantic Ocean and torment the new country. Hearts are healing from the devastation and loss from the war.

Few escaped without scars, including a little five-year-old boy. Could his innocence be protected as the adults in his life struggle with secrets and fresh fears? A host of people commit to the cause.

Bravo, Vickie!

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

A clean story about a young boy and who he belongs to and the woman who has raised him. Heather gains more than she loses when she brings him to his father.

Lucas has given up on love or a family but God has given him a son and the woman who has raised him intrigues him.

There are secrets and dangers throughout. I found it enjoyable.

[Diane Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

who doesn’t like a good pirate story?

There was so much emotion in this book. Between the pirates and the brother ‘s rivalry and the women who found love, this book had it all. Well written.

[Danielle Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

. This one follows. Lucas and heather. Meat because. Lucas. Is the father of. Jamie. Who is orphaned. After his parents die. I didn't really connect with any of the characters. Though I did, like the Christian themes. In the story.

[Kate Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had very little expectations for this book! Turned out to be not bad at all! My girlfriend’s and I went to a little free library and each picked out a random book to read for our book club! I can’t wait to tell them about it.

[Kyliegh · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story itself was interesting, but the romance was severely lacking. They had no real conversations before they were professing their love for one another.