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Land of the Lone Star #2
Touching the Sky
When Laura Marquardt first meets Brandon Reid, their encounter is anything but pleasant. But when the two are seated together at a dinner party, they soon find that they share similar interests--Laura desires to educate blacks, and Brandon, as a white officer over colored troops, eagerly supports her cause.
When Laura's sister, Carissa, marries her Confederate beau, Laura finds herself in a difficult situation when she overhears plots to kill Union soldiers. Though in her heart she feels she should share this information with Brandon, Laura fears she will betray her sister's trust and possibly endanger her sister's life. And when Brandon's motives for pursuing her come into question, her heart is even more conflicted. Where is God leading her?
336 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2012
168 people are currently reading
922 people want to read
About the author
Tracie Peterson
249 books3,115 followersTracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.
pen name: Janelle Jamison
pen name: Janelle Jamison
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
June 12, 2012
Tracie Peterson's Land of the Lone Star series is quickly becoming one of my all-time favorites of hers. Touching the Sky follows the March release of Chasing the Sun but they are essentially stand-alone novels, although a character from the first book does make a brief appearance in this one. Once again, Peterson has created a heroine who is strong, spunky, and smart--a very good thing, since Laura Marquardt's sister is the complete opposite! The setting fascinated me: not many books are set in Texas around the Civil War; this novel demonstrates what a powderkeg of emotions filled the days immediately following its end in cities such as Corpus Christi where both Union and Confederate soldiers returned home, many unable or unwilling to lay aside their disdain for the opposing side. A contingent of "colored troops" charged with keeping peace, a society whose economy has been upended by the emancipation of the slave labor on which it depended, and the debate over the proper "place" for that newly freed population all contribute to the hotbed of emotions and are smoothly woven throughout the story without the book reading like a dry documentary. On the contrary, this is an absolutely captivating novel, and I read most of it in a day. (And the part where the title is made clear is absolutely beautiful!) I'm so glad this is a quick-release series; I'm already eagerly anticipating Taming the Wind, which will be available September 1! You don't have to be a Texan to enjoy this book and this series; don't miss it!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. 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.”
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. 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.”
October 30, 2019
3.5
Peterson's Lone Star series is not her best work. Although I overall enjoyed the story and the ending, there were definitely some ethical issues I had with Peterson's writing. So, the good first – the story is interesting and somewhat suspenseful, there is certainly some character growth (in both faith and personality), and the geographic setting was quite pleasant to read about.
However... I was disappointed that not only were the main character's parents willfully naïve (I mean, how shocked could they be to find out what was happening to their youngest daughter?), but that Peterson skillfully developed a 'white savior' attitude in many of her characters. The African-American characters were given flat personalities, with tones that seemed only to change (to surprise and gratitude) when they were told how to help themselves by… you got it… our little miss "I know everything even though I have remained sheltered and spoiled my whole life" heroine. It grated on my nerves that Laura thinks that she has the skills to 'save' the negroes of her community from a life of destitution. I've read Christian historical fiction plots that have handled the situation of teaching literacy to former slaves in the Civil War and post-Civil War era South before. And there was no condescension of the main characters, no sniveling on the part of the poor, ignorant former slaves (as if they are more ignorant of life than Laura, a sheltered and wealthy young white woman)! My other issue was the slight hint of masculine superiority that was conveyed at the end of the novel. I am no raging feminist (in fact, I have pretty traditional values), but I don't believe that a woman should without question obey the every order of the men in her life, nor that her primary purpose as a wife is to "give" a man children (only God gives life, and he gives children to the couple, not the man!).
Overall, the plot did little to win my admiration for a book that had the capability to be so much better than it was. I was disappointed in Peterson's lack of ethical/more fiber - and the complacency with which she continues damaging stereotypes of minority groups (women and African-Americans, specifically). I was also disappointed that there wasn't more growth in faith in the novel. It seemed almost unnecessary to the plotline, which shouldn't be the case in a purposefully Christian novel. I'll read the third one of the series - maybe - but really I am just looking forward to reading another one of Peterson's better novels!
Peterson's Lone Star series is not her best work. Although I overall enjoyed the story and the ending, there were definitely some ethical issues I had with Peterson's writing. So, the good first – the story is interesting and somewhat suspenseful, there is certainly some character growth (in both faith and personality), and the geographic setting was quite pleasant to read about.
However... I was disappointed that not only were the main character's parents willfully naïve (I mean, how shocked could they be to find out what was happening to their youngest daughter?), but that Peterson skillfully developed a 'white savior' attitude in many of her characters. The African-American characters were given flat personalities, with tones that seemed only to change (to surprise and gratitude) when they were told how to help themselves by… you got it… our little miss "I know everything even though I have remained sheltered and spoiled my whole life" heroine. It grated on my nerves that Laura thinks that she has the skills to 'save' the negroes of her community from a life of destitution. I've read Christian historical fiction plots that have handled the situation of teaching literacy to former slaves in the Civil War and post-Civil War era South before. And there was no condescension of the main characters, no sniveling on the part of the poor, ignorant former slaves (as if they are more ignorant of life than Laura, a sheltered and wealthy young white woman)! My other issue was the slight hint of masculine superiority that was conveyed at the end of the novel. I am no raging feminist (in fact, I have pretty traditional values), but I don't believe that a woman should without question obey the every order of the men in her life, nor that her primary purpose as a wife is to "give" a man children (only God gives life, and he gives children to the couple, not the man!).
Overall, the plot did little to win my admiration for a book that had the capability to be so much better than it was. I was disappointed in Peterson's lack of ethical/more fiber - and the complacency with which she continues damaging stereotypes of minority groups (women and African-Americans, specifically). I was also disappointed that there wasn't more growth in faith in the novel. It seemed almost unnecessary to the plotline, which shouldn't be the case in a purposefully Christian novel. I'll read the third one of the series - maybe - but really I am just looking forward to reading another one of Peterson's better novels!
October 18, 2018
Another fine book by Traci Peterson - the way she depicts the results of the war between the North and South and the effect it had on Texas makes one really stop and thing what hard times those must have been. Texas didn't want to be in the war but it saw there things rationed. Now that the war is over, many bitter feelings still exist between people. Laura and Brandon's romance is a fairy tale ending. But Carissa's part of the story was very engaging. Abuse at the hand of your husband was not talked about in those days (and is hidden even nowadays) but Laura puts two and two together and figures out that Malcolm is beating Carissa. When they go to get Carissa's belongings so she can move back home and Malcolm shows up before they can leave, things become intense. He is doing illegal things and takes Laura and Carissa as his hostages. Brandon and Tyler are hot on the trail but when Malcolm leaves in the boats you wonder how they will catch him. The women are tossed overboard and both Brandon and Tyler do an amazing job of rescuing both women before they drown. Malcolm is killed when he tries to escape. All is well with Carissa and she doesn't lose the baby for now. Lots of good Christian advice on dealing with fear and letting God handle things, turning things over to him. Life is a risk but God is always with us and will never forsake us.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2018
The main character reminds me of Abe Lincoln's wife in a certain way. Mary Todd didn't have any friends because she was a southerner living in the north during the war. Laura didn't have any friends because she is a girl who hates slavery while living in the south. This is a tough stand to take in a lot of ways.
I admire what she is looking for in a husband compared to her sister. She is looking for a Christian man. This is hard to find but she is trusting God to do that. Clarissa who is her sister hardly even knows the man she is getting engaged to. This is going to back fire on her eventually.
I didn't like how the author made it seem that it doesn't matter how fast you marry someone just as long as they share your values. I think it is better to go slow than to be sorry about it later. I think Laura wouldn't have regretted it if she had gotten to know more about him.
Another thing that puzzles me is how Laura is going to obey and honor her husband when she is so bossy.
I loved that Laura was teaching former slaves to read but I hated that she did it without her parents knowledge. Though she showed great courage to say sorry to them for being so under handed.
I admire what she is looking for in a husband compared to her sister. She is looking for a Christian man. This is hard to find but she is trusting God to do that. Clarissa who is her sister hardly even knows the man she is getting engaged to. This is going to back fire on her eventually.
I didn't like how the author made it seem that it doesn't matter how fast you marry someone just as long as they share your values. I think it is better to go slow than to be sorry about it later. I think Laura wouldn't have regretted it if she had gotten to know more about him.
Another thing that puzzles me is how Laura is going to obey and honor her husband when she is so bossy.
I loved that Laura was teaching former slaves to read but I hated that she did it without her parents knowledge. Though she showed great courage to say sorry to them for being so under handed.
July 12, 2018
Touching the Sky was an excellent read. I loved the theme of "touching the sky" woven into the story. It brought everything together beautifully by being both dreamy and adventurous. Laura was a great main character with Brandon being a great example of a worthy man. There were so many layers of drama with the end of the Civil War. This made for an explosive setting in the story. The trials in this story are hard and real, but it is beautifully balanced by the heartwarming romance and loving family relationships. There is action and danger. The ending is a pulse-pounding ride. I did not like the way they "escaped" together at the end. Considering what had just happened, the scene didn't fit the flow of the book. I can't wait to read the next book and see what else happens in this story.
May 12, 2022
A "full course meal" is the best way I can describe what it's like to read a book by Tracie Peterson! I'm really enjoying this series; it's a bit different from her other Historical Christian books. I really found it interesting and fascinating to learn about what both sides went through post-Civil War. I've always loved reading and learning about the Underground Railroad, and I was saddened to learn that many of the runaway slaves didn't make it to freedom due to poor treatment from starvation and/or wounds from beatings, etc. I was able to read a copy of this book via Libby, but it did not in any way affect my review. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2025
It has been a while since I read the first book in this series and I have forgotten how much I love Tracie Peterson's writing.
Touching the Sky is a historical Christian romance that is perfectly written for those of us that like a clean, slow burn romance with all the swoony moments. The way the author weaves history, romance, and faith together is done seamlessly and with great care and beauty, but at the same time she does not shy away from hard subjects, such as domestic violence and slavery. I also liked the nod to the characters from book one and how they were made part of this story.
I truly enjoyed this book and look forward very much to the next in this series.
Touching the Sky is a historical Christian romance that is perfectly written for those of us that like a clean, slow burn romance with all the swoony moments. The way the author weaves history, romance, and faith together is done seamlessly and with great care and beauty, but at the same time she does not shy away from hard subjects, such as domestic violence and slavery. I also liked the nod to the characters from book one and how they were made part of this story.
I truly enjoyed this book and look forward very much to the next in this series.
March 1, 2020
This is a pleasing and interesting novel which presented another aspect of the Civil War, about the ones truly supporting neither the North or the South, but were almost shunned by local Southerners. Laura is learning what it is like to be a Christian in those times. Her dream is to teach former slaves to read. One former slave told Laura that being able to read was like touching the sky, an impossible dream. Laura's sister is so focused on getting married that she does not really take the time to realize she is marrying a murderer. This was a satisfying book!
March 15, 2018
Brilliantly frightening and delightful, this romantic suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat! I took every opportunity I could to listen to this audiobook! The narration was perfect with a Southern draw for the post civil war women of Texas, as well as both Yankee and Rebel accents for the soldiers and sympathizers! Not to mention the wonderful voices of the ex slaves and the Mexican employees! Now on to book 3 in this captivating series!!
July 7, 2019
Another fabulous tale that will draw you in from the start. The characters are realistic and I came to really care about them. Laura is a strong youg woman that loves her sister and will do whatever she can to help her. The story goes into how much Laura cares about others, especially Carissa, even though they don't always see eye to eye.
I loved the writing style, the characters and the setting of this wonderful book. I look forward to reading the final book in this trilogy.
I loved the writing style, the characters and the setting of this wonderful book. I look forward to reading the final book in this trilogy.
April 6, 2022
This was a good follow up to the first of the Lone Star series, and whilst a couple of characters from the first book made an appearance, there is no need to read the first one before reading this, as it doesn't affect the storyline in any way.
This was a page turner for me because I wanted to know what was happening with Malcolm and his renegades and how Brendan would stop them. The suspense went down to the wire.
I really like how Tracie Peterson brings faith in the Lord into her stories.
This was a page turner for me because I wanted to know what was happening with Malcolm and his renegades and how Brendan would stop them. The suspense went down to the wire.
I really like how Tracie Peterson brings faith in the Lord into her stories.
March 4, 2023
I liked the way this book kept moving with the suspense building all the way almost to the very end. There is little in the book for you to learn about the aftermath of the Civil War but there is certainly enough of the battle between good and evil. I liked the main characters, their strength and ability to handle life. A good read.
September 12, 2019
Really interesting insight into some of the things that happened after the Civil War that we don't hear about. Some of the issues were pretty easy to figure out how they would be resolved but over all an easy, good read.
October 7, 2020
Rom com to a t. I like how Laura is a strong woman with a brain. I find it terrible that carissa doesn’t want her parents to find out about the abuse?!? Shame on her and her parents for letting that shit happen.
November 30, 2021
Awesome
Very good book. I felt like I was transported back in time. The only thing that I would have liked is the same characters from the first book to carry into the second, instead of other being a whole new book. A continuous story would have been nice.
Very good book. I felt like I was transported back in time. The only thing that I would have liked is the same characters from the first book to carry into the second, instead of other being a whole new book. A continuous story would have been nice.
March 20, 2020
Great read!
May 5, 2020
Wonderful historical Christian romance
I love historical Christian romances, they are clean romances that also teach you a little bit of history, I highly recommend this book!
I love historical Christian romances, they are clean romances that also teach you a little bit of history, I highly recommend this book!
February 6, 2021
Enjoyable read and series. Love it.
June 9, 2021
Just a great read!,
I really enjoy the way Tracy spins a story. It is all
Fun reading books. Went to Costco today and spent too much money! Sleep tight
I really enjoy the way Tracy spins a story. It is all
Fun reading books. Went to Costco today and spent too much money! Sleep tight
January 2, 2023
Just okay.
August 2, 2023
Should just be a standalone.
January 24, 2024
It’s just SO GOOD. I am LOVING this series. The books are pretty simple. Good guy, bad guy, and romance. I always feel so satisfied when I finish one of her books. 100% recommend 🩷
March 22, 2024
I loved this book. The story was beautifully done. The good characters very likable, the bad characters very NOT likable. Anyone who likes post civil
War era rich in customs will love this book!
War era rich in customs will love this book!
March 23, 2017
I didn't enjoy this one as much as Chasing the Sun, but the land of the Lonestar is one of my favorite series by Peterson that I have read so far. I look forward to reading the third book from the series!
September 10, 2012
It's June of 1865 in Corpus Christi, Texas, the war is over and life here would forever be changed. Laura Marquardt and her family were Union supporters during a war that pit family against family and neighbor against neighbor. Now that the war is over they would like to put their differences behind them and get on with life. The Union military had a unit of black soldiers to try to help keep the peace because there's a group of former Confederate soldiers who have a vendetta against the Union and their supporters.
Captain Brandon Reid finds Laura in an alley and accuses her of being up to no good and tells her to be on her way. He is in for a surprise when he attends a party at the Marquardt home and who should the angel be that is playing the piano and singing beautifully but Laura Marquardt, a strong Union supporter.
Laura has a sister, Carissa, who is the real social butterfly of the family and has drawn the attention of Malcolm Lowe. Malcolm has a secret reason for courting Carissa, he's the leader of the group trying to restart the war because he's mad that they lost. Laura is concerned about Carissa when she announces that they will be married and soon, she doesn't think Malcolm is the man that he pretends to be. Carissa refuses to be talked into waiting until she knows him better so they get married with her parents blessing.
Events cause Laura to wonder what Malcolm is up to so she watches and listens closely when he's around.
After the wedding Malcolm seems to keep Carissa hidden, there are no visits, they don't go to church, etc.
When Laura and her Mother finally see Carissa after a couple of weeks, Laura notices bruises on her arm. Carissa claims it's from moving furniture. Several weeks later, after not seeing Carissa again and being told to leave them, the newleyweds, alone by Malcolm, Laura takes her Mother and goes to visit Carissa. There is no answer and the front door won't budge, they go to the back door where there is still no answer to the knocking but the door is unlocked so they enter. As they are walking through the house calling to Carissa Laura notices there is a steel bar bolted on the inside of the front door. When they get no answer from Carissa, they threaten to come upstairs looking for her. Carissa comes out and her whole body is covered with bruises. She says she fell down the stairs, Laura doesn't fall for that story, so they take her home to recover.
Captain Reid officially retires from the military but silently continues to work with them to try and find out who's behind the murders of the black soldiers and Union officers. As he's doing this he starts seeing Laura, without telling her about the army's suspicions of Malcolm Lowe and his role in the investigation.
Just what is going on in the Lowe marriage and how will it involve Laura? Will Captain Reid ever confide in Laura what he suspects and what he is doing? What will happen to the Lowe's, will their marriage survive?
This is a view of what life was like for one family after the war and how it affected people living in the same town that shared two different views. Tracie really held my interest and did a great job with this story. It's about sister helping sister and finding faith in God when you think he won't help you because you did too much wrong in your past.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book for review. 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
Captain Brandon Reid finds Laura in an alley and accuses her of being up to no good and tells her to be on her way. He is in for a surprise when he attends a party at the Marquardt home and who should the angel be that is playing the piano and singing beautifully but Laura Marquardt, a strong Union supporter.
Laura has a sister, Carissa, who is the real social butterfly of the family and has drawn the attention of Malcolm Lowe. Malcolm has a secret reason for courting Carissa, he's the leader of the group trying to restart the war because he's mad that they lost. Laura is concerned about Carissa when she announces that they will be married and soon, she doesn't think Malcolm is the man that he pretends to be. Carissa refuses to be talked into waiting until she knows him better so they get married with her parents blessing.
Events cause Laura to wonder what Malcolm is up to so she watches and listens closely when he's around.
After the wedding Malcolm seems to keep Carissa hidden, there are no visits, they don't go to church, etc.
When Laura and her Mother finally see Carissa after a couple of weeks, Laura notices bruises on her arm. Carissa claims it's from moving furniture. Several weeks later, after not seeing Carissa again and being told to leave them, the newleyweds, alone by Malcolm, Laura takes her Mother and goes to visit Carissa. There is no answer and the front door won't budge, they go to the back door where there is still no answer to the knocking but the door is unlocked so they enter. As they are walking through the house calling to Carissa Laura notices there is a steel bar bolted on the inside of the front door. When they get no answer from Carissa, they threaten to come upstairs looking for her. Carissa comes out and her whole body is covered with bruises. She says she fell down the stairs, Laura doesn't fall for that story, so they take her home to recover.
Captain Reid officially retires from the military but silently continues to work with them to try and find out who's behind the murders of the black soldiers and Union officers. As he's doing this he starts seeing Laura, without telling her about the army's suspicions of Malcolm Lowe and his role in the investigation.
Just what is going on in the Lowe marriage and how will it involve Laura? Will Captain Reid ever confide in Laura what he suspects and what he is doing? What will happen to the Lowe's, will their marriage survive?
This is a view of what life was like for one family after the war and how it affected people living in the same town that shared two different views. Tracie really held my interest and did a great job with this story. It's about sister helping sister and finding faith in God when you think he won't help you because you did too much wrong in your past.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book for review. 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
June 3, 2012
Laura Marquardt soon learns that being a strong, smart and independent women will win her the attention of two very different men and for two very different reasons in the historical fiction, Touching the Sky by Tracie Peterson. Set in the mid 1800's at the end of the civil war between the states, hostilities still run high between the North and South and those who remain loyal to either side. The Marquardt household even though residing the Texas maintain loyalties with the North with the Ironclad Oath. It seems however that some animosity still resides among their own citizens in Texas to the Marquardt family.
Most of their friends and family believed that the Emancipation Proclamation wasn't such a good idea and now will Lincoln dead, many feel that the war needs to rise up once again in the South. So when Malcolm Lowe arrives to begin courting Carissa Marquardt and eventually marry her, he has more on his mind that just wedding plans. Malcolm Lowe served in the Southern army and isn't so happy to have people like Captain Brandon Reid living among them as well as most of colored troops that he served over from the North. Now Malcolm is making plans with other men who feel the same as he does to make sure that the South will rise up and claim what they feel is their just reward and to take as many of the Yankees and colored with them.
Captain Reid is assigned to find out information about Malcolm whom the Northern Army feels is up to no good in Texas, so when he is asked to attend a party at the Marquardt's, he doesn't plan on falling for Laura in the process. Yet trying to keep both of his obligations separate, he struggles with wanting to tell her the truth about his actions so she doesn't believe that he is using her to get close to Malcolm. So when an opportunity presents itself that Laura finds out information about Malcolm that she believes he is planning to murder innocent people, it provides an open door for Brandon to help her without telling her everything. But will he have the opportunity to be completely honest with her before Malcolm's plans have a chance to be carried out, or will Laura find herself in danger without an opportunity to know just how Brandon feels?
I received Touching the Sky by Tracie Peterson compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and found this story captivating. On one end you have the building tension between Malcolm and his hate for the Northern supporters and on the other side, the romance building between Brandon and Laura which keeps you wondering just where this will all end. This is the second book in the Land of the Lone Star series and I can't wait to see where this one will conclude. If you haven't read the first book in this series, this book can be enjoyed as a stand alone. However, being a huge fan of Tracie Peterson's novels, I know you will want to go back and enjoy the first one as well. She writes so well and is noticeable of her time periods. I think this is the draw readers enjoy as they immerse themselves into the story. For that I rate this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Most of their friends and family believed that the Emancipation Proclamation wasn't such a good idea and now will Lincoln dead, many feel that the war needs to rise up once again in the South. So when Malcolm Lowe arrives to begin courting Carissa Marquardt and eventually marry her, he has more on his mind that just wedding plans. Malcolm Lowe served in the Southern army and isn't so happy to have people like Captain Brandon Reid living among them as well as most of colored troops that he served over from the North. Now Malcolm is making plans with other men who feel the same as he does to make sure that the South will rise up and claim what they feel is their just reward and to take as many of the Yankees and colored with them.
Captain Reid is assigned to find out information about Malcolm whom the Northern Army feels is up to no good in Texas, so when he is asked to attend a party at the Marquardt's, he doesn't plan on falling for Laura in the process. Yet trying to keep both of his obligations separate, he struggles with wanting to tell her the truth about his actions so she doesn't believe that he is using her to get close to Malcolm. So when an opportunity presents itself that Laura finds out information about Malcolm that she believes he is planning to murder innocent people, it provides an open door for Brandon to help her without telling her everything. But will he have the opportunity to be completely honest with her before Malcolm's plans have a chance to be carried out, or will Laura find herself in danger without an opportunity to know just how Brandon feels?
I received Touching the Sky by Tracie Peterson compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and found this story captivating. On one end you have the building tension between Malcolm and his hate for the Northern supporters and on the other side, the romance building between Brandon and Laura which keeps you wondering just where this will all end. This is the second book in the Land of the Lone Star series and I can't wait to see where this one will conclude. If you haven't read the first book in this series, this book can be enjoyed as a stand alone. However, being a huge fan of Tracie Peterson's novels, I know you will want to go back and enjoy the first one as well. She writes so well and is noticeable of her time periods. I think this is the draw readers enjoy as they immerse themselves into the story. For that I rate this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
July 20, 2012
1865 in Corpus Christi, Texas you would think that people were glad the war between the North and South was over. Some were glad although they were still suffering the after effects of the war.
Laura Marquardt hurried along the street when she was confronted by some scruffy looking Confederate soldiers. She recognized one of the men. She thought if she was polite they would not see her fear. But they cursed her for being a Union supporter and a traitor to the South and accosted her. A couple of Union soldiers came upon them and ordered them to release the lady. The rebels did not cotton to taking orders from Black Union soldiers so they just laughed and ran. A White Union officer by the name of Captain Reid approached and boldly took matters in his hands. Without any further ado he dismissed the soldiers and proceeded to reprimand Laura sending her on her way not even allowing her a chance to explain the situation.
Laura and Captain Reid crossed each others paths again at a social gathering for Local Union Supporters. It became very clear to the Captain that he had wrongly misjudged Laura Marquardt as being a disgruntled Confederate sympathizer. Laura in a rather playful and straightforward manner set him straight about which side she supported. Finding they have the same goal which is to bring the North and the South together as one peaceful nation. Then there is a spark between the two of them that refuses not be ignored.
They come together to bring to justice several renegade Confederates one in particular a suspected murderer.
This is a story filled with intrigue and romance. Women had to be courageous back then and that is exacty how the author portrayed Laura and her sister in this novel.
I loved what the author wrote about the meaning of the books title, TOUCHING THE SKY.
I have read book one in the LAND OF THE LONE STAR series,CHASING THE SUN. Now that I have read book two I am anxious to read book three,TAMING THE WIND,expected publication date September 1st 2012 by Bethany House Publishers.
I highly recommend Touching The Sky.
I rated this book 5 out of 5.
Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.
August 27, 2012
Author Tracie Peterson is quite adept at including more than one side of an issue in her historical romance works. While the romance is always poignant and appealing, the characters often face conflicts due to their beliefs and their chosen path in life. Faith and loyalties are challenged by the behavior of others and the era in which they live. "Touching the Sky" is the second book in Tracie Peterson's the "Land of the Lone Star" series, and it vividly captures the turmoil of Civil War Era Texas. Set just as the war officially ends, it focuses on the split sentiments of Texans--those who were Union supporters, and those who were committed to the Confederacy. The mid to late 1800's were a period in time in which the world changed radically in a relatively short number of years, and many of the themes in "Touching the Sky" reflect what was to come before the end of the century. Laura Marquardt and her family were Union supporters, and when she meets soon-to-decommission Union Captain Brandon Reid, she is immediately drawn to his quiet strength and deep faith. Brandon is captivated by Laura's beauty, intelligence, and her desire to educate and assist freed slaves. When Laura's somewhat frivolous younger sister Carissa marries a Confederate suitor, all of their lives are forever changed. Carissa's new husband is not what he seems, and his cruelty and subversive behavior threaten all that Laura holds dear. Brandon is not quite through with his service to the Union, as he begins working undercover to bring down a murderous group of renegades. When Laura confides in him about the truth of her sister's abusive marriage and her suspicions about her brother-in-law's real nature, then Brandon must follow through with his last mission, even if it costs him the love of his life. A very involving historical romance, both touching and thought-provoking.
Review Copy Gratis Bethany House Books
Review Copy Gratis Bethany House Books
March 16, 2013
Touching the Sky (Land of the Lone Star Book #2)
Tracie Peterson
Book Summary: Her heart is caught between the man she loves and the sister she's desperate to protect. Though their first encounter is hardly auspicious, Laura Marquardt soon discovers herself drawn to the dashing Captain Brandon Reid. As an officer over the colored troops, he eagerly supports her desire to educate blacks and seek harmony in a town where the defeat of the South is a bitter reality. When Laura's sister marries her Confederate beau, Laura finds herself in a difficult situation after overhearing a discussion with frightening consequences. In her heart she feels she should confide in Brandon, but Laura fears to do so may endanger her sister's life. Yet as the stakes continue to rise and Brandon's motives for pursuing her come into doubt, Laura questions where to turn...and wonders if her own dreams of love may be forsaken.
Book Review: I really enjoyed this story the best. The female lead was most enjoyable for me. The younger sister and the dilemma with her husband. The entry of the confederate officer was fun to watch knowing that he was the good guy. The drama with Laura's sister was realistic and intense. You could taste the dust of Texas and the challenges of the west in 1860's. From the opening intensity to all the drama with Laura's sister it was a page turner. I really enjoy the crafting of the story by Tracie Peterson. The development of characters, even secondary characters and the entire plot are pure enjoyment. I am always anticipating the next book before I finish the one I am in.
I would like to thank Bethany House Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
Tracie Peterson
Book Summary: Her heart is caught between the man she loves and the sister she's desperate to protect. Though their first encounter is hardly auspicious, Laura Marquardt soon discovers herself drawn to the dashing Captain Brandon Reid. As an officer over the colored troops, he eagerly supports her desire to educate blacks and seek harmony in a town where the defeat of the South is a bitter reality. When Laura's sister marries her Confederate beau, Laura finds herself in a difficult situation after overhearing a discussion with frightening consequences. In her heart she feels she should confide in Brandon, but Laura fears to do so may endanger her sister's life. Yet as the stakes continue to rise and Brandon's motives for pursuing her come into doubt, Laura questions where to turn...and wonders if her own dreams of love may be forsaken.
Book Review: I really enjoyed this story the best. The female lead was most enjoyable for me. The younger sister and the dilemma with her husband. The entry of the confederate officer was fun to watch knowing that he was the good guy. The drama with Laura's sister was realistic and intense. You could taste the dust of Texas and the challenges of the west in 1860's. From the opening intensity to all the drama with Laura's sister it was a page turner. I really enjoy the crafting of the story by Tracie Peterson. The development of characters, even secondary characters and the entire plot are pure enjoyment. I am always anticipating the next book before I finish the one I am in.
I would like to thank Bethany House Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
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