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Sisters of Mercy Flats #1
Promise Me Today
The three wily and beautiful McDougal sisters could swindle a man faster than it took to lasso a calf.
But their luck was running out when the wagon hauling the sisters to jail came under attack by Comanches. Then a dumbfounded Abigail watched as Amelia and Anne-Marie were swept off by rugged rescuers—while she got stuck with an impossible twit of a shoe salesman, Mr. Hershall Digman.
Stealing Digman's horse and riding to the nearest town seemed easy as pie—until Abby found top secret papers in the saddlebags. Why, the lying, conniving little sneak was a Confederate spy!
To prove it, the man who came storming after her was no mincing dandy in a bowler hat but a devilishly handsome captain in the Confederate Army. Barrett Drake wanted his papers. Well, she wanted a ride back home. With murder in their eyes and growing lust in their hearts, they embarked on Drake's mission together, knowing that when fire and kerosene mix, the flames may burn out of control...
But their luck was running out when the wagon hauling the sisters to jail came under attack by Comanches. Then a dumbfounded Abigail watched as Amelia and Anne-Marie were swept off by rugged rescuers—while she got stuck with an impossible twit of a shoe salesman, Mr. Hershall Digman.
Stealing Digman's horse and riding to the nearest town seemed easy as pie—until Abby found top secret papers in the saddlebags. Why, the lying, conniving little sneak was a Confederate spy!
To prove it, the man who came storming after her was no mincing dandy in a bowler hat but a devilishly handsome captain in the Confederate Army. Barrett Drake wanted his papers. Well, she wanted a ride back home. With murder in their eyes and growing lust in their hearts, they embarked on Drake's mission together, knowing that when fire and kerosene mix, the flames may burn out of control...
296 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 24, 1992
199 people are currently reading
745 people want to read
About the author
Lori Copeland
195 books531 followersLori Copeland was born on 12 June 1941. She had a relatively late start in writing, breaking into publishing in 1982 when she was already forty years old. Over the next dozen years, her romance novels achieved much success, as was evidenced by her winning the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, The Holt Medallion, and Walden Books' Best Seller award. She has been inducted into the Missouri Writers Hall of Fame.
Despite her success in more mainstream romantic fiction, in 1995, she decided to switch focus. Her subsequent books have been in the relatively new subgenre of Christian romance. She has also collaborated with authors Angela Elwell Hunt or Virginia Smith on a series of Christian romance novels.
Lori and her husband of over forty years, Lance, live in Springfield, Missouri, surrounded by the beautiful Ozarks. They have three grown sons, three daughter-in-laws, and six wonderful grandchildren, and two great-granddaughters. She and her husband are very involved in their church, and active in supporting mission work in Mali, West Africa.
Despite her success in more mainstream romantic fiction, in 1995, she decided to switch focus. Her subsequent books have been in the relatively new subgenre of Christian romance. She has also collaborated with authors Angela Elwell Hunt or Virginia Smith on a series of Christian romance novels.
Lori and her husband of over forty years, Lance, live in Springfield, Missouri, surrounded by the beautiful Ozarks. They have three grown sons, three daughter-in-laws, and six wonderful grandchildren, and two great-granddaughters. She and her husband are very involved in their church, and active in supporting mission work in Mali, West Africa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
January 11, 2022
An absolutely delightful story!!Insightful as it is an historical one of course but a pleasure to read indeed :D
March 10, 2021
Some folk said they had it coming; others said it was a shame the McDougal sisters hadn't gotten their justice sooner.
Sisters who are con artists in the 1860s? Yes, please!
I couldn't tell you where I picked this up, but it's been on my TBR shelves for a bit, and when I wanted something short and hisfic, it called my name. And WOW did I enjoy that a lot.
Disgruntled-at-one-another to fake-relationship to taking-care-of-a-baby to one-of-us-is-dying to lovers is hands down one of my favorite romance plots, and it's in full swing here. I absolutely flew through this book, which is my first Lori Copeland, if I'm not mistaken.
Was it cheesy? Yes.
Was it weirdly paced? Kinda.
Does that change the fact that I loved it? Nope.
Abigail cracked me up, which considering she definitely had opportunity to annoy me instead, is a great thing. Barrett was the perfect "I'm grouchy and I don't care about you... wait oh no I care now" character. Baby Daniel was so precious (though I won't deny that "mmm whatcha say" was playing in my head through the entirety of the scene in which he's introduced xD)
I'm intrigued to read the rest of the series just to see what shenanigans the sisters got up to, but idk if it'll be any time soon. Overall, I enjoyed it very much, and I'm very glad I read it. 4.5 stars because my heart says 5 but my head says that's too much, lol.
Sisters who are con artists in the 1860s? Yes, please!
I couldn't tell you where I picked this up, but it's been on my TBR shelves for a bit, and when I wanted something short and hisfic, it called my name. And WOW did I enjoy that a lot.
Disgruntled-at-one-another to fake-relationship to taking-care-of-a-baby to one-of-us-is-dying to lovers is hands down one of my favorite romance plots, and it's in full swing here. I absolutely flew through this book, which is my first Lori Copeland, if I'm not mistaken.
Was it cheesy? Yes.
Was it weirdly paced? Kinda.
Does that change the fact that I loved it? Nope.
Abigail cracked me up, which considering she definitely had opportunity to annoy me instead, is a great thing. Barrett was the perfect "I'm grouchy and I don't care about you... wait oh no I care now" character. Baby Daniel was so precious (though I won't deny that "mmm whatcha say" was playing in my head through the entirety of the scene in which he's introduced xD)
I'm intrigued to read the rest of the series just to see what shenanigans the sisters got up to, but idk if it'll be any time soon. Overall, I enjoyed it very much, and I'm very glad I read it. 4.5 stars because my heart says 5 but my head says that's too much, lol.
March 10, 2025
This story kept me laughing the whole way thru! Not because it was a humorous story, but because I was in shock at what a shrew this heroine was!!! OMG and I see but only a few other people mention this in their reviews. Really? I even saw some mention that she was a wonderful, strong, independent heroine. 😟
Let me break it down for you:
This girl was a 19-year old that was posing as a nun to scam rich ppl out of their money, kind of like a Robin Hood act. She is on her way to jail with her two sisters after being caught during a scam attempt, and Comanche warriors are trying to run them down. Just before the Comanche can reach them, each girl is rescued by a different hero. (the sisters stories are in the following books). I loved how it started and it immediately grabbed me in and got me wondering how the three different stories would turn out. That's why I stuck with the book the whole way thru.
Back to the heroine.... so she is rescued by a dorky-looking shoe salesman. Based off of his looks, and apparent dorkiness, she was extremely rude to him, extremely. She was belittling him for not stopping to make camp (when he was just trying to escape those pesky Comanche), belittling him for not pitching a tent quick enough, starting a fire fast enough, etc. Then she started in on demanding that he escort her back to her home to meet up with her sisters. He said he wasn't able to do that and that he needed to be traveling in the opposite direction, but he would get her safely to the train station to get her home. She threw a temper tantrum that a 2-yr old would be proud of. She spit in his face, she refused his food he made for her, she snatched his eye-glasses off of his face, threw them on the ground and stomped on them and broke them... and then still kept begging him to take her all they way home. She had one temper tantrum after another, and eventually stole his horse to try to get home by herself, leaving him stranded in the middle of the desert. What an ungrateful bitch! (that's what I kept saying over and over to myself.)
And then!! When the hero's secret is revealed half-way thru the story, she got super pissed and belligerent that how dare he lie to her! Lol as if her being a nun con artist is not lying. And this is a Christian novel, btw. Real Christ-like heroine if you ask me.... I'm pretty sure Jesus would NOT have acted like that, Abigail. As for romance, there are not one, but TWO or THREE kisses, oo la la.
Ultimately, I loved the originality of the story and how the other two sisters stories will follow-up with two different types of heroes. I just wish it had more steam/romance, and less bitchiness and immature temper tantrums. (not attractive)
Let me break it down for you:
This girl was a 19-year old that was posing as a nun to scam rich ppl out of their money, kind of like a Robin Hood act. She is on her way to jail with her two sisters after being caught during a scam attempt, and Comanche warriors are trying to run them down. Just before the Comanche can reach them, each girl is rescued by a different hero. (the sisters stories are in the following books). I loved how it started and it immediately grabbed me in and got me wondering how the three different stories would turn out. That's why I stuck with the book the whole way thru.
Back to the heroine.... so she is rescued by a dorky-looking shoe salesman. Based off of his looks, and apparent dorkiness, she was extremely rude to him, extremely. She was belittling him for not stopping to make camp (when he was just trying to escape those pesky Comanche), belittling him for not pitching a tent quick enough, starting a fire fast enough, etc. Then she started in on demanding that he escort her back to her home to meet up with her sisters. He said he wasn't able to do that and that he needed to be traveling in the opposite direction, but he would get her safely to the train station to get her home. She threw a temper tantrum that a 2-yr old would be proud of. She spit in his face, she refused his food he made for her, she snatched his eye-glasses off of his face, threw them on the ground and stomped on them and broke them... and then still kept begging him to take her all they way home. She had one temper tantrum after another, and eventually stole his horse to try to get home by herself, leaving him stranded in the middle of the desert. What an ungrateful bitch! (that's what I kept saying over and over to myself.)
And then!! When the hero's secret is revealed half-way thru the story, she got super pissed and belligerent that how dare he lie to her! Lol as if her being a nun con artist is not lying. And this is a Christian novel, btw. Real Christ-like heroine if you ask me.... I'm pretty sure Jesus would NOT have acted like that, Abigail. As for romance, there are not one, but TWO or THREE kisses, oo la la.
Ultimately, I loved the originality of the story and how the other two sisters stories will follow-up with two different types of heroes. I just wish it had more steam/romance, and less bitchiness and immature temper tantrums. (not attractive)
May 21, 2011
Sooo Just a heads up on this one. Lori Copeland did write Historical Romance before she went to straight writing Christian Romance. I've seen a lot of people complain about these early books of hers because they thought they were going to be Christian romance. This is a fairly clean book. Sex isn't described in great detail in this book, but it is THERE. I just wish people actually looked into books, and read others reviews before posting their own and giving these books bad ratings.
Ok off that subject I really did enjoy this book a lot. I loved the characters and can't wait to get to know the other sisters in the books to come. Hershall is just such a weird character when you first meet him, I wasn't sure how I felt about him. He was so awkward. But you learn to love them. As always I love Lori's books, she makes you feel the characters love, pain, and happiness. You really get pulled into the book. It is a historical during the war between the North and South. But it doesn't give a lot of history in it, just enough to image being there but not so much it over whelms you. Great for those who love historical romance. Just so you know, this book leads into the next two books... so it doesn't really have an ending... Be prepared to have the next two books on hand!
Ok off that subject I really did enjoy this book a lot. I loved the characters and can't wait to get to know the other sisters in the books to come. Hershall is just such a weird character when you first meet him, I wasn't sure how I felt about him. He was so awkward. But you learn to love them. As always I love Lori's books, she makes you feel the characters love, pain, and happiness. You really get pulled into the book. It is a historical during the war between the North and South. But it doesn't give a lot of history in it, just enough to image being there but not so much it over whelms you. Great for those who love historical romance. Just so you know, this book leads into the next two books... so it doesn't really have an ending... Be prepared to have the next two books on hand!
October 29, 2018
Cute. Cute. Cute. This was a quick, fun read that had me laughing a number of times. I'm looking forward to the next two, and to seeing everything come together in a finale.
February 1, 2025
Sisters of Mercy Flats was just an okay read for me. The story, while short, seemed to move too slowly and the characters just frustrated me at times.
The romance was okay, but not a favorite. At times I thought it was sweet, but then other times it was just annoying.
All in all, Sisters of Mercy Flats was not for me. I don't have any plans at the moment to continue the series.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*
The romance was okay, but not a favorite. At times I thought it was sweet, but then other times it was just annoying.
All in all, Sisters of Mercy Flats was not for me. I don't have any plans at the moment to continue the series.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*
June 8, 2013
Anne-Marie, Abigail and Amelia McDougal are orphans from Mercy Flats, Texas, who make a living as con artists, disguising themselves as nuns to inspire trust in those they plan to relieve of their money. The sisters are being hauled to jail when their wagon is attacked by an Indian raiding party. They escape—barely—with the assistance of three men who just happened to be passing, but the sisters are separated in the escape.
Sisters of Mercy Flats then follows the story of Abigail, the middle sister, as she is carried off by weedy Hershall Digman, a travelling shoe salesman. (Well, that’s what we are supposed to think. The book blurb reveals that he is actually Captain Barrett Drake, a spy for the Confederate Army, trying to get some important documents to aid in an upcoming battle).
It wasn’t clear who the story was actually going to be about for the first couple of chapters, and by the time it became apparent that it was only about the immature and annoying Abigail, I had already come to the conclusion that I didn’t like her (Anne-Marie was the sister who most caught my interest). The fact that the story was written almost entirely from Abigail’s point of view didn’t help. I would have like to see more from Hershall/Barrett, as I didn’t feel he was ever fleshed out properly as a character.
There was a fast-paced start but after the sisters were separated, it really seemed to slow down, and I found the problems started to outweigh the good points. The sisters had a Robin Hood approach to ethics that didn't sit comfortably with me. They seemed to subscribe to the idea of a victimless crime. I don't. And (at the risk of giving a spoiler) I didn’t think there was sufficient acknowledgement of or repentance from this attitude from Abigail. We were told her attitude had changed, but not shown. I wasn’t convinced.
I also got confused with the timing. In the early chapters it seemed of vital importance that Hershall/Bennett reach Shreveport as quickly as possible, yet they seemed to waste several days in the journey. And I found it odd that a Confederate spy would give a speech about the importance of freedom. I understand he believed he was fighting for states’ rights, but one of the right held dear in the South was the right to hold people in slavery. So was he fighting for slavery or freedom? But I’m not American and most of what I know about the Civil War was learned from Christian novels, so who knows how accurate my views are.
The romance came together very quickly, and I’m not convinced it would last, because of Abigail’s immaturity. Overall, while the basic plot had potential, I had to force myself to finish this. Recommended for those who like light romantic westerns by authors like Lori Wick and Karen Baney.
What the blurb doesn't say (but Goodreads shows) is that Sisters of Mercy Flats is a Christianised version of Promise Me Today, first published in 1992 (and followed by two sequels). That explains why I didn't find the characters acting in a particularly Christian fashion - because they weren't. They were originally having a lot of sex, and while that has gone, nothing much has gone in to replace it. It also perhaps explains some of the strange attitudes - the author was trying to make something written twenty years ago politically correct for 2013.
Thanks to Harvest House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Sisters of Mercy Flats then follows the story of Abigail, the middle sister, as she is carried off by weedy Hershall Digman, a travelling shoe salesman. (Well, that’s what we are supposed to think. The book blurb reveals that he is actually Captain Barrett Drake, a spy for the Confederate Army, trying to get some important documents to aid in an upcoming battle).
It wasn’t clear who the story was actually going to be about for the first couple of chapters, and by the time it became apparent that it was only about the immature and annoying Abigail, I had already come to the conclusion that I didn’t like her (Anne-Marie was the sister who most caught my interest). The fact that the story was written almost entirely from Abigail’s point of view didn’t help. I would have like to see more from Hershall/Barrett, as I didn’t feel he was ever fleshed out properly as a character.
There was a fast-paced start but after the sisters were separated, it really seemed to slow down, and I found the problems started to outweigh the good points. The sisters had a Robin Hood approach to ethics that didn't sit comfortably with me. They seemed to subscribe to the idea of a victimless crime. I don't. And (at the risk of giving a spoiler) I didn’t think there was sufficient acknowledgement of or repentance from this attitude from Abigail. We were told her attitude had changed, but not shown. I wasn’t convinced.
I also got confused with the timing. In the early chapters it seemed of vital importance that Hershall/Bennett reach Shreveport as quickly as possible, yet they seemed to waste several days in the journey. And I found it odd that a Confederate spy would give a speech about the importance of freedom. I understand he believed he was fighting for states’ rights, but one of the right held dear in the South was the right to hold people in slavery. So was he fighting for slavery or freedom? But I’m not American and most of what I know about the Civil War was learned from Christian novels, so who knows how accurate my views are.
The romance came together very quickly, and I’m not convinced it would last, because of Abigail’s immaturity. Overall, while the basic plot had potential, I had to force myself to finish this. Recommended for those who like light romantic westerns by authors like Lori Wick and Karen Baney.
What the blurb doesn't say (but Goodreads shows) is that Sisters of Mercy Flats is a Christianised version of Promise Me Today, first published in 1992 (and followed by two sequels). That explains why I didn't find the characters acting in a particularly Christian fashion - because they weren't. They were originally having a lot of sex, and while that has gone, nothing much has gone in to replace it. It also perhaps explains some of the strange attitudes - the author was trying to make something written twenty years ago politically correct for 2013.
Thanks to Harvest House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
April 5, 2022
I REALLY love this book! From the beginning I was laughing like crazy! Abigail is my kind of character! One that is tough and doesn't let anyone get away with anything. From early on sparks fly both from tempers and chemistry between the two lead characters! Sisters of Mercy Flats is an original and wonderful idea. Lori fills the pages with some twists and interesting decisions. I really loved the way the civil war was laced in and the back stories of the characters. There was one issue that I had, and that was when they were getting milk from heifers. You can't get milk from a heifer. To produce milk the cow must have had a calf and therefore it is no longer a heifer but a cow and a cow alone. (Sigh) but I digress. ;) Anyway I loved this book and I can't wait to see what happened to the other sisters! I am SO anxious to read the other stories and see if they really do all get back together in the end. Another unique character that I can't wait for (and I don't want to give anything away but I must give a shout out) is the Crow brave that is not a villain but a hero. So many times in history and many stories the Crow people are painted as villains and really cruel people. While I kinda think that is the way quite a few of them were it was very refreshing to read about a Crow brave doing something good! I think this is a Must Read and I will go so far as to think that this series is going to be one of my favorites. The characters are so unique and lovable and Lori's stories and style are so great I must recommend that you read Sisters of Mercy Flats. It made me laugh all the way through! :D
Songs for Sisters of Mercy Flats: "Amazing Grace" by Emma, "You Never Are" by Francesca Battistelli, and one of my all time favorite songs! I just couldn't resist! "Tough" by Kellie Pickler
Exodus 14:14
~ASC
Songs for Sisters of Mercy Flats: "Amazing Grace" by Emma, "You Never Are" by Francesca Battistelli, and one of my all time favorite songs! I just couldn't resist! "Tough" by Kellie Pickler
Exodus 14:14
~ASC
March 31, 2013
Abigail McDougal and her sisters are beautiful thieves. Yet at some point, even the best of thieves get caught. On their way to jail, a Comanche raiding party attacks their wagon. Three different men come to their rescue, and each departs with one of the sisters. Hershell Digman, shoe salesman, is on his way to Shreveport when he rescues Abigail from the Indians. He's hiding something as well. Could he be a spy? As the pair continue to Shreveport with vital information for the Confederate Army, they fight an attraction to each other. Will they make it in time? And will they both admit how they feel?
It's been a while since I picked up a Lori Copeland book. Light-hearted, this book kept me entertained from the first page through the last. This book is Abigail's story. I'm hoping that there will also be books about her sisters as well. Both Abigail and Hershell have issues in their lives to resolve before they can move on. While they aren't as developed as some of the other characters in the author's other books, they were believable.
I received the Kindle version of the book for free from Harvest House Publishers via Netgalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Christian fiction, Lori Copeland, Love Inspired Historicals
Due out in June, 2013
Rating - 3 stars - because I really felt blah about the book.
It's been a while since I picked up a Lori Copeland book. Light-hearted, this book kept me entertained from the first page through the last. This book is Abigail's story. I'm hoping that there will also be books about her sisters as well. Both Abigail and Hershell have issues in their lives to resolve before they can move on. While they aren't as developed as some of the other characters in the author's other books, they were believable.
I received the Kindle version of the book for free from Harvest House Publishers via Netgalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Christian fiction, Lori Copeland, Love Inspired Historicals
Due out in June, 2013
Rating - 3 stars - because I really felt blah about the book.
September 20, 2013
This is a rollicking romantic adventure, set during the Civil War! When three con artists, who happen to be sisters, are attacked on their way to jail, they're each rescued by a different man. Abigail ends up with a shoe salesman, Hershall Digman, an inept man she can't wait to be rid of. However, after stealing his horse and discovering papers he was carrying, she wonders if he could truly be a Confederate spy. When he shows up, she's determined to make him take her home in exchange for the papers, but everything keeps going wrong. Can a con artist mend her ways and a Rebel open his heart to love?
Abigail was a fun and feisty character, but what a handful! I really liked them both and it was entertaining to see what catastrophe would happen next. The banter was amusing, though sometimes a phrase didn't fit the context, which was distracting and confusing. The faith elements were more general, mentioning belief in God, and the characters' struggles didn't feel very fleshed out either. I'm guessing there will be a couple more books in the series, one for each of the other sisters, or at least I hope so because this was a fun romance and I want to find out what crazy things happen to the other sisters!
I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
Abigail was a fun and feisty character, but what a handful! I really liked them both and it was entertaining to see what catastrophe would happen next. The banter was amusing, though sometimes a phrase didn't fit the context, which was distracting and confusing. The faith elements were more general, mentioning belief in God, and the characters' struggles didn't feel very fleshed out either. I'm guessing there will be a couple more books in the series, one for each of the other sisters, or at least I hope so because this was a fun romance and I want to find out what crazy things happen to the other sisters!
I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2015
3.5 stars in all.
The Good:
I really liked how unconventional Abigail was. Normally it's the hero who has a seedy side, but to read about a heroine who is a con-artist and swindler made for a nice change. Digman - er, Drake - was okay, pretty one-dimensional. I think if I could have read from his POV more often I would have connected with him more. I did really enjoy the faith aspect of the story. It wasn't in your face, but subtle.
The Bad:
The last three to four chapters were odd. I feel like the author wanted to prolong the suspense, but Christian fiction usually always ends in a HEA so I wasn't worried that they wouldn't end up together. Still, it was odd for her to introduce another man so late in the game. Also, I would have liked more closure than just a few paragraphs on the last page.
Overall, I really enjoyed the quick read. It definitely had me laughing a lot.
The Good:
I really liked how unconventional Abigail was. Normally it's the hero who has a seedy side, but to read about a heroine who is a con-artist and swindler made for a nice change. Digman - er, Drake - was okay, pretty one-dimensional. I think if I could have read from his POV more often I would have connected with him more. I did really enjoy the faith aspect of the story. It wasn't in your face, but subtle.
The Bad:
The last three to four chapters were odd. I feel like the author wanted to prolong the suspense, but Christian fiction usually always ends in a HEA so I wasn't worried that they wouldn't end up together. Still, it was odd for her to introduce another man so late in the game. Also, I would have liked more closure than just a few paragraphs on the last page.
Overall, I really enjoyed the quick read. It definitely had me laughing a lot.
September 7, 2014
Entertaining story set during the Civil War. Good light-hearted read
October 1, 2015
DNF Not too crazy about reading about why the south should win with civil war.
April 13, 2015
Looking forward to reading about the other 2 sisters.
January 22, 2020
(Review contains slight spoilers)
I wasn't really in the mood for this book when I picked it up, but the first chapter quickly drew me in. Con artist nuns? Yes please! I was super intrigued. While this was important in the story, I felt like the rest of the book was kind of boring after this. It wasn't bad, just wasn't the most captivating book I've read.
I enjoyed watching the main character evolve, and seeing how certain things that happened changed her. I also felt like some of it was very relatable, even though this was set long ago. If I had to take care of a child for several days, I would probably get attached too. However, I felt like the jealous stuff towards the end was unnecessary. It wasn't done in a way that made me feel the chemistry between the main characters more. It was just frustrating.
3.5 stars
I received this book for free in return for an honest review.
I wasn't really in the mood for this book when I picked it up, but the first chapter quickly drew me in. Con artist nuns? Yes please! I was super intrigued. While this was important in the story, I felt like the rest of the book was kind of boring after this. It wasn't bad, just wasn't the most captivating book I've read.
I enjoyed watching the main character evolve, and seeing how certain things that happened changed her. I also felt like some of it was very relatable, even though this was set long ago. If I had to take care of a child for several days, I would probably get attached too. However, I felt like the jealous stuff towards the end was unnecessary. It wasn't done in a way that made me feel the chemistry between the main characters more. It was just frustrating.
3.5 stars
I received this book for free in return for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2015
I haven't read a Lori Copeland book in a long while. I started out with her “Men of the Saddle” and “Brides of the West” series and went on from there. Since first reading her books, I've gone and reread old favorites but it's been a while since I actually looked up the author to search for new titles. So, I was happy to find this new series a few weeks ago and eagerly waited for it to become available at my library. Finally it came and I opened up it's pages, ready for yet another Lori Copeland adventure.
I was easily swept up in the story. It was so comical, reading about the McDougal sisters as they masqueraded as nuns and swindled men out of their money. But then it grew a bit confusing for me. The minute they were captured, the story and character point of views became fragmented. The story began to be told through not only the three sister's perspectives, but also, it grew to include three men – the girl's rescuers. It was all a bit muddled for a while. I wished that Lori Copeland had shared the scene from a wider perspective. Instead, showing us exactly what happened almost more from a bird's eye view – how three men came along and whisked the sisters away, separating them for the sake of safety and a clean getaway. It was just too much. You had pieces of the story that were told only a paragraph at a time before the book would switch perspectives again. Luckily, this set up only lasted for about a chapter.
Maybe it's because I've grown older since I first was introduced to Copeland's writing, but the writing and style in the beginning seemed really messy and amateurish. I hate to say that too, because she's always been a favorite author of mine despite the fact that while rereading her work in my later years, some of her books have not remained favorites.
I'm happy to say that after that little hiccup in the beginning, Copeland did draw me into the plot line. Once it became a story of only two characters, it was much easier to follow. I liked Abigail, though she did have to grow on me a bit. I found her character to be a bit grating on the nerves at first and the interactions between her and Barrett were annoying at times. I tended to not have anyone to really root for in the beginning and at one point, I almost gave up on the book in exasperation. While I liked the whole concept, the idea, the characters... I found the execution a bit lacking. It was especially annoying that Copeland kept the twist about Barrett's true identity a secret for so long. It lasted for almost half the book. Not that I expected Abigail to figure it out so soon, but when we switched to Garrett's point of view, it was lame that his true identity wasn't shared openly with the readers. The only reason I say this is because the fact that he was a soldier was clearly printed in the description on the back of the book. And I quote, “As if to prove it, the man who comes storming after her is no shoe salesman, but a handsome Rebel captain who wants his papers back... at any cost.” While reading, I realized he was a spy pretty quickly. I didn't see the need to try and shadow or withhold that fact from the reader since it was so apparent that he was in disguise. Instead, I wished I was able to get a first-hand glimpse at all of Barrett's schemes as he pretended to be a fool of a shoe salesman. It would have made for much more comical reading and it's always fun as a reader to be in on a secret that one of the main characters is blind to.
The actual plot itself was fun, I thought. I laughed at all the predicaments Abigail and Barrett found themselves in, I loved the addition of little Daniel to the story, and Doyle added some nice tension to the romance without making it into a full blown love triangle. Barrett was a favorite. I also loved seeing how Abigail softened and enjoyed reading the spiritual lessons she was learning.
By the end, I was wishing for more. I was a bit disappointed with how it ended. Although there is a confession of love, you don't really get to see if Barrett ever proposes, if he and Abigail go back and adopt Daniel, or if they are able to marry before Barrett has to return to his duties as a soldier. I suppose you are just supposed to assume, or maybe it will be shared in book three (since I've already read the sequel and know it isn't mentioned in book two). If all of these events are being included or answered in book three, I'm hoping Amelia's story isn't too cramped. With trying to also fit in the three sister's reunion and or weddings/marriages, it would be an awful lot to cram into that final book. Fingers crossed for a satisfying end to the series.
In the end, I have mixed feelings about this book. I both loved and disliked it. At times it was entertaining, and at other times it was frustrating to read. I think in the end, I'm mostly satisfied with it and I veer toward positive feelings rather than all the negative shared in this review. It had it's flaws, but it somehow won me over. To be truthful, while these complaints and plot flaws may seem off-putting, they were only slight frustrations that I noticed as I went along. For the most part, I could ignore them and still, for the most part, enjoy the book. However, I thought it important to note them for other interested readers in case some may not be as forgiving and would rather avoid reading this book. I wouldn't say this book was perfect by any means, neither was it a favorite of mine compared to Copeland's previous works. Still, it wasn't terrible and I'm glad I read it. It was a quick, clean, lighthearted diversion for my weekend and a great set up for the sequel.
I was easily swept up in the story. It was so comical, reading about the McDougal sisters as they masqueraded as nuns and swindled men out of their money. But then it grew a bit confusing for me. The minute they were captured, the story and character point of views became fragmented. The story began to be told through not only the three sister's perspectives, but also, it grew to include three men – the girl's rescuers. It was all a bit muddled for a while. I wished that Lori Copeland had shared the scene from a wider perspective. Instead, showing us exactly what happened almost more from a bird's eye view – how three men came along and whisked the sisters away, separating them for the sake of safety and a clean getaway. It was just too much. You had pieces of the story that were told only a paragraph at a time before the book would switch perspectives again. Luckily, this set up only lasted for about a chapter.
Maybe it's because I've grown older since I first was introduced to Copeland's writing, but the writing and style in the beginning seemed really messy and amateurish. I hate to say that too, because she's always been a favorite author of mine despite the fact that while rereading her work in my later years, some of her books have not remained favorites.
I'm happy to say that after that little hiccup in the beginning, Copeland did draw me into the plot line. Once it became a story of only two characters, it was much easier to follow. I liked Abigail, though she did have to grow on me a bit. I found her character to be a bit grating on the nerves at first and the interactions between her and Barrett were annoying at times. I tended to not have anyone to really root for in the beginning and at one point, I almost gave up on the book in exasperation. While I liked the whole concept, the idea, the characters... I found the execution a bit lacking. It was especially annoying that Copeland kept the twist about Barrett's true identity a secret for so long. It lasted for almost half the book. Not that I expected Abigail to figure it out so soon, but when we switched to Garrett's point of view, it was lame that his true identity wasn't shared openly with the readers. The only reason I say this is because the fact that he was a soldier was clearly printed in the description on the back of the book. And I quote, “As if to prove it, the man who comes storming after her is no shoe salesman, but a handsome Rebel captain who wants his papers back... at any cost.” While reading, I realized he was a spy pretty quickly. I didn't see the need to try and shadow or withhold that fact from the reader since it was so apparent that he was in disguise. Instead, I wished I was able to get a first-hand glimpse at all of Barrett's schemes as he pretended to be a fool of a shoe salesman. It would have made for much more comical reading and it's always fun as a reader to be in on a secret that one of the main characters is blind to.
The actual plot itself was fun, I thought. I laughed at all the predicaments Abigail and Barrett found themselves in, I loved the addition of little Daniel to the story, and Doyle added some nice tension to the romance without making it into a full blown love triangle. Barrett was a favorite. I also loved seeing how Abigail softened and enjoyed reading the spiritual lessons she was learning.
By the end, I was wishing for more. I was a bit disappointed with how it ended. Although there is a confession of love, you don't really get to see if Barrett ever proposes, if he and Abigail go back and adopt Daniel, or if they are able to marry before Barrett has to return to his duties as a soldier. I suppose you are just supposed to assume, or maybe it will be shared in book three (since I've already read the sequel and know it isn't mentioned in book two). If all of these events are being included or answered in book three, I'm hoping Amelia's story isn't too cramped. With trying to also fit in the three sister's reunion and or weddings/marriages, it would be an awful lot to cram into that final book. Fingers crossed for a satisfying end to the series.
In the end, I have mixed feelings about this book. I both loved and disliked it. At times it was entertaining, and at other times it was frustrating to read. I think in the end, I'm mostly satisfied with it and I veer toward positive feelings rather than all the negative shared in this review. It had it's flaws, but it somehow won me over. To be truthful, while these complaints and plot flaws may seem off-putting, they were only slight frustrations that I noticed as I went along. For the most part, I could ignore them and still, for the most part, enjoy the book. However, I thought it important to note them for other interested readers in case some may not be as forgiving and would rather avoid reading this book. I wouldn't say this book was perfect by any means, neither was it a favorite of mine compared to Copeland's previous works. Still, it wasn't terrible and I'm glad I read it. It was a quick, clean, lighthearted diversion for my weekend and a great set up for the sequel.
May 28, 2022
Great read!
I always enjoy books written by Lori Copeland! She truly brings the characters alive!
Abigail is rescued from a jail wagon by a nondescript shoe salesman. They don't get along at all. As they're traveling along they talk about their lives. Abigail really wants to meet up with her sisters at Mercy Flats but her companion is a spy and he needs to deliver some correspondence. Along
the way they come across a baby who is orphaned. Abigail desperately wants to keep the baby but the Captain is afraid to open his heart again. He finally realizes that he loves Abigail and little Daniel!
I always enjoy books written by Lori Copeland! She truly brings the characters alive!
Abigail is rescued from a jail wagon by a nondescript shoe salesman. They don't get along at all. As they're traveling along they talk about their lives. Abigail really wants to meet up with her sisters at Mercy Flats but her companion is a spy and he needs to deliver some correspondence. Along
the way they come across a baby who is orphaned. Abigail desperately wants to keep the baby but the Captain is afraid to open his heart again. He finally realizes that he loves Abigail and little Daniel!
March 12, 2018
Fun read about one of a trio of sisters who get caught in a pickle. Abigail McDougal is a head-strong, adventurous young woman who thinks she has her life figured out and desires no change until she meets handsome and trustworthy Mr. Hershall Digman. When they are forced together by circumstances, she begins to question all she knows and God begins shaping her conscience and behavior. As far as the intriguing hero, he has his own journey of redemption as well. Love Ms. Copeland's tales. Looking forward to learning the fates of Anne-Marie and Amelia next!
July 22, 2019
Sisters of Mercy Flats is a rollercoaster of a book. There are some highs, some lows, and a "what?!?!" ending. The beginning of the story had a cheesy feel, but I pushed through. Thankfully by the middle of the story the plot picked up. The ending though?! Without a spoiler, let's just say it was disappointing. There was a lot of unresolved issues. What happened to Abigail's sisters? Perhaps there are more stories in the series, but this could have been set up at the end instead of an abrupt ending.
February 18, 2018
An interesting story
Many novels like this are predictable and repetitive...but NOT Sisters of Mercy Flats. From the antics of the 3 sisters, to their separating rescues, the action was only beginning. The man who rode off with the h doesn't know how to ride or start a fire, but it becomes apparent that he is hiding a big secret...be prepared for the twists and turns these two must survive!!
Many novels like this are predictable and repetitive...but NOT Sisters of Mercy Flats. From the antics of the 3 sisters, to their separating rescues, the action was only beginning. The man who rode off with the h doesn't know how to ride or start a fire, but it becomes apparent that he is hiding a big secret...be prepared for the twists and turns these two must survive!!
August 23, 2023
A Confederate spy falls in love with a lady who is not who she seems.
Loved being with this author again. Barrett and Abigail story had an exciting start. Both were in disguise. When they discovered who each other were. They gave each other a very hard time. But in the end love prevailed. They met a sweet little boy along the way. Who brought them closer togethor. Barrett layed down his past. Will read more by this author.
Loved being with this author again. Barrett and Abigail story had an exciting start. Both were in disguise. When they discovered who each other were. They gave each other a very hard time. But in the end love prevailed. They met a sweet little boy along the way. Who brought them closer togethor. Barrett layed down his past. Will read more by this author.
January 18, 2024
The Best Book of the Series so Far
I loved the personalities of both main characters, their fights and their efforts to avoid admitting to each other about how they really feel about each other. I loved the baby Daniel
and how he managed to charm everyone he met. The ending was as good as it gets last to the minute one that kept you guessing about what was going to happen. I can’t wait to read the next book. It will be my birthday present to myself!
I loved the personalities of both main characters, their fights and their efforts to avoid admitting to each other about how they really feel about each other. I loved the baby Daniel
and how he managed to charm everyone he met. The ending was as good as it gets last to the minute one that kept you guessing about what was going to happen. I can’t wait to read the next book. It will be my birthday present to myself!
August 14, 2025
Life sometimes get’s in the way.
A delightful book from beginning to the ending. Things happen that we don’t know about yet. The wild west just seemed to get in the way of these three sisters.this story is about the younger sister. You and she cannot imagine what is around the next bend. Raised by nuns who show unconditional love. That teaching is always in the back of her mind. Enjoy
A delightful book from beginning to the ending. Things happen that we don’t know about yet. The wild west just seemed to get in the way of these three sisters.this story is about the younger sister. You and she cannot imagine what is around the next bend. Raised by nuns who show unconditional love. That teaching is always in the back of her mind. Enjoy
March 13, 2020
3.5 stars
The first half of the book was so annoying the way the two main characters acted. I was tempted multiple times to stop but it was an easy read so I kept going.
The second half was the redemption of the book. Finally they became relatable and more well rounded then just acting like spoiled fighting teens.
The first half of the book was so annoying the way the two main characters acted. I was tempted multiple times to stop but it was an easy read so I kept going.
The second half was the redemption of the book. Finally they became relatable and more well rounded then just acting like spoiled fighting teens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2023
Why do authors, when doing a series about sisters, ALWAYS make one a blonde, one a brunette, and one a redhead. 🙄
And they always have thick, silky, curly hair. Riggggghhhhhhtttt.
My hair is thick and curly but it's also coarser than a boar's hair brush and has never, and never will, be randomly silky after being brushed.
And they always have thick, silky, curly hair. Riggggghhhhhhtttt.
My hair is thick and curly but it's also coarser than a boar's hair brush and has never, and never will, be randomly silky after being brushed.
October 12, 2023
Loved the story..it held my interest from the first page to the last. The odd part is that it's supposed to be "faith-based." The McDougal sisters are thieves. Then the story goes over the top on faith. All of this took place in just a few days--not nearly enough time for the amazing transformation of Abigail but who can really judge human nature?
April 1, 2018
Awesome book
I ventured out to a new author and I love this book, she kept you in suspense, made you laugh and cry. Believe we all have our ups and downs as we go through life but in the end it will all work out.
I ventured out to a new author and I love this book, she kept you in suspense, made you laugh and cry. Believe we all have our ups and downs as we go through life but in the end it will all work out.
July 5, 2019
You will love this one!
This book will keep you entertained with adventure, will make you laugh at the with of the characters and make you look forward to book two with anticipation! I loved this one!!! Entertainment from beginning until the end!!!
This book will keep you entertained with adventure, will make you laugh at the with of the characters and make you look forward to book two with anticipation! I loved this one!!! Entertainment from beginning until the end!!!
July 8, 2020
I only gave this book three stars because of the heading hopping. It confused me a little and slowed my reading. Otherwise, I enjoyed the story line and can't wait to see what happens to the other two McDougal sisters.
September 26, 2020
The brat and the gentleman
Half of the book was filled with the main character acting like a bratty child. What saved it for me was the captain and Abigail’s interactions. Good chemistry I’ll read the next one.
Half of the book was filled with the main character acting like a bratty child. What saved it for me was the captain and Abigail’s interactions. Good chemistry I’ll read the next one.
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