What do you think?
Rate this book
Frontier Hearts #1
Rescue in the Wilderness
William Cole cannot forget the cruel burden he carries, not with the pock marks that serve as an outward reminder. Riddled with guilt, he assumed the solitary life of a long hunter, traveling into the wilds of Kentucky each year. But his quiet existence is changed in an instant when, sitting in a tavern, he overhears a man offering his daughter—and her virtue—to the winner of the next round of cards. William’s integrity and desire for redemption will not allow him to sit idly by while such an injustice occurs.
Lucinda Gillespie has suffered from an inexplicable illness her entire life. Her father, embarrassed by her condition, has subjected her to a lonely existence of abuse and confinement. But faced with the ultimate betrayal on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, Lucinda quickly realizes her trust is better placed in his hands of the mysterious man who appears at her door. Especially when he offers her the one thing she never thought would be within her grasp—freedom.
In the blink of an eye, both lives change as they begin the difficult, danger-fraught journey westward on the Wilderness Trail. But can they overcome their own perceptions of themselves to find love and the life God created them for?
Lucinda Gillespie has suffered from an inexplicable illness her entire life. Her father, embarrassed by her condition, has subjected her to a lonely existence of abuse and confinement. But faced with the ultimate betrayal on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, Lucinda quickly realizes her trust is better placed in his hands of the mysterious man who appears at her door. Especially when he offers her the one thing she never thought would be within her grasp—freedom.
In the blink of an eye, both lives change as they begin the difficult, danger-fraught journey westward on the Wilderness Trail. But can they overcome their own perceptions of themselves to find love and the life God created them for?
202 pages, Paperback
First published June 24, 2023
309 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Byrd
16 books35 followersAs a Christian wife and mom located in rural Kentucky, Andrea Byrd has a deep affinity for an old-fashioned, natural lifestyle. Often described as having been born outside her time, she loves to spend time with her family in the great outdoors, one with nature.
With a degree in Equine Health & Rehabilitation gathering dust and a full-time job tethering her to a desk eight hours a day, Andrea decided it was high time to invoke change in her life. To show her children it is truly possible to make your dreams come true, she dove into the role of Christian Romance author with her debut series, Smoky Mountain Romance.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
February 20, 2024
We do not give our pioneers enough credit. Grit, determination, courage, and an abounding faith in God.
Lucinda is suffering what we might call early onset rheumatoid arthritis. She is secluded from the public for ten years by her father who is embarrassed by her disability and thinks so hatefully of her.
William overhears her father betting her future away at a "pub". He decides to rescue her as he is suffering with his own embarrassment of small pox scarring.
These two set off to Kentucky through the Cumberland Gap. The heroism of a will to live forward than return to what they came from.
Lucinda is suffering what we might call early onset rheumatoid arthritis. She is secluded from the public for ten years by her father who is embarrassed by her disability and thinks so hatefully of her.
William overhears her father betting her future away at a "pub". He decides to rescue her as he is suffering with his own embarrassment of small pox scarring.
These two set off to Kentucky through the Cumberland Gap. The heroism of a will to live forward than return to what they came from.
July 9, 2023
William Cole is a long hunter, spending little time in society and lots of time traveling through Kentucky. Though he's alone much of the time, he's well connected with others. One evening at a tavern eating dinner, he hears a drunk man wager off his 18 year old daughter's hand in marriage. Cole's conscience is pricked and he goes out to the cabin to provide her way out.
Lucinda has an arthritic disease and for the last 10 years-after the passing of her mother- has been secluded in her father's cabin enduring his abuse. When William presents at her door, she's terrified of what her father's done and agrees to go with him, embark on a journey along the treacherous Wilderness Trail.
Lucinda has always wondered what God's purpose for her life is and continues to seek His guidance during the travels and William, bearing the burdens and responsibilities of others has struggled to trust God with them. Their faith in God is strengthened through their hardships, as does their admiration and love for each other.
Lucinda is an inspiration, she fought with physical pain throughout the journey and struggled to let others care for her, so determined not to be a burden. But she learns that love is vulnerable and for love to grow it means leaning on each other.
If you enjoy historical fiction set in the 1700s, characters whose faith is challenged and deepened and an adventure through the wilderness, I think you'll really like it!
Lucinda has an arthritic disease and for the last 10 years-after the passing of her mother- has been secluded in her father's cabin enduring his abuse. When William presents at her door, she's terrified of what her father's done and agrees to go with him, embark on a journey along the treacherous Wilderness Trail.
Lucinda has always wondered what God's purpose for her life is and continues to seek His guidance during the travels and William, bearing the burdens and responsibilities of others has struggled to trust God with them. Their faith in God is strengthened through their hardships, as does their admiration and love for each other.
Lucinda is an inspiration, she fought with physical pain throughout the journey and struggled to let others care for her, so determined not to be a burden. But she learns that love is vulnerable and for love to grow it means leaning on each other.
If you enjoy historical fiction set in the 1700s, characters whose faith is challenged and deepened and an adventure through the wilderness, I think you'll really like it!
January 15, 2026
4.5 stars! Great story! Great Christian Content! There are tragedies that occur with death involved.
May 1, 2023
Great characters that captured my heart. A sweet story of love and sacrifice that only grows through the many trials. The author does a great job of showing the hardships of this time in history all the while keeping the reader engaged in the pages. A really wonderful read!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
June 25, 2023
This is the first book I have read by Andrea Byrd and I was excited to be on the launch team. I enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more from the Frontier Hearts series.
We meet Lucinda and William and follow them from Virginia through the Cumberland Gap into Kentucky during the winter of 1779.
Lucinda has been living a lonely life, hidden away from the world while living with only her father since her mother passed away years earlier. Sadly, her father has abused her and she thinks her life is of no worth and can't understand how anyone could care about her.
William saves her from a horrid fate and takes her with him on his journey with a multiude of others on the Wilderness Trail from Virginia to Kentucky in an attempt to make new lives for themselves. Even though he is seen as a hero and rescuer to Lucinda, he also has his secrets and feelings of unworthiness.
This story is full of heartache and danger, what with the harrowing terrain and fear of imminent attacks, but also full of faith and growth in Christ. There are secrets that need to be shared and opening up to each other. Needing to see the truth of their worth. Learning to trust fully in God.
I really loved seeing the relationship between Lucinda and William evolve.
Even though there were a host of side characters, we didn't really get to know most of them very well. And the ones we did get to know more about, weren't in the story for long. The book focused on Lucinda and William. I admit, there were some characters I wish we had learned a bit more about and would have gotten to know their fates.
I enjoyed this journey and really hope we get to see more of Lucinda and William in future books.
I received an ebook for free from the author as a part of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own, honest thoughts.
We meet Lucinda and William and follow them from Virginia through the Cumberland Gap into Kentucky during the winter of 1779.
Lucinda has been living a lonely life, hidden away from the world while living with only her father since her mother passed away years earlier. Sadly, her father has abused her and she thinks her life is of no worth and can't understand how anyone could care about her.
William saves her from a horrid fate and takes her with him on his journey with a multiude of others on the Wilderness Trail from Virginia to Kentucky in an attempt to make new lives for themselves. Even though he is seen as a hero and rescuer to Lucinda, he also has his secrets and feelings of unworthiness.
This story is full of heartache and danger, what with the harrowing terrain and fear of imminent attacks, but also full of faith and growth in Christ. There are secrets that need to be shared and opening up to each other. Needing to see the truth of their worth. Learning to trust fully in God.
I really loved seeing the relationship between Lucinda and William evolve.
Even though there were a host of side characters, we didn't really get to know most of them very well. And the ones we did get to know more about, weren't in the story for long. The book focused on Lucinda and William. I admit, there were some characters I wish we had learned a bit more about and would have gotten to know their fates.
I enjoyed this journey and really hope we get to see more of Lucinda and William in future books.
I received an ebook for free from the author as a part of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own, honest thoughts.
July 7, 2023
Rescue in the Wilderness is such a sweet story. I was pulled in quickly and invested in the two main characters—Lucinda and William. My heart went out to them both and I connected with them with ease.
Lucinda and William deal with inner hurts and painful emotions. I love how Lucinda leans on her faith and how William’s heart guides him. They are flawed, yet they need to see the beauty they embody.
This adventure story is sure to touch your heart. I loved the sweet romance, danger, and especially the thread of faith. I enjoyed their growth and journey to find their place and purpose. This is a beautiful beginning of the Frontier Hearts series. I look forward to book 2.
First Line: Every fiber of William’s being fought his presence in the room.
Series: Frontier Hearts book 1
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Author: Andrea Byrd
Page Count: 200
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Lucinda and William deal with inner hurts and painful emotions. I love how Lucinda leans on her faith and how William’s heart guides him. They are flawed, yet they need to see the beauty they embody.
This adventure story is sure to touch your heart. I loved the sweet romance, danger, and especially the thread of faith. I enjoyed their growth and journey to find their place and purpose. This is a beautiful beginning of the Frontier Hearts series. I look forward to book 2.
First Line: Every fiber of William’s being fought his presence in the room.
Series: Frontier Hearts book 1
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Author: Andrea Byrd
Page Count: 200
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
August 14, 2024
Good imagery. I love how the author depicted even the snow.
Very detailed on how perilous traveling was in those days. I was glad to see that. It was interesting how they were traveling in the dead of winter. But obviously wagon trains and not traveling in winter didnt happen until later in the 1800’s.
Character development seemed a little fast for my liking. I would’ve liked if the author had gone into depth a little more about their personalities outside of who they were because of their circumstances. Overall a pretty good book.
Very detailed on how perilous traveling was in those days. I was glad to see that. It was interesting how they were traveling in the dead of winter. But obviously wagon trains and not traveling in winter didnt happen until later in the 1800’s.
Character development seemed a little fast for my liking. I would’ve liked if the author had gone into depth a little more about their personalities outside of who they were because of their circumstances. Overall a pretty good book.
May 20, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! Usually I give a book a 5 star if I can not put it down and I stay up all night finishing it, this one was more of a slow burn. This is the first book I have read by Andrea Byrd and I can not wait for more! Really hoping this is a series that continues with the same characters as I need to know how their life is going! and it needs to be in the same wonderfully inspirational detail! not as side characters in someone elses story. I am sad to leave William and Lucinda, give me more!
This book really snuck up on me as I thought it was going to be a enjoyable but predictable average read. Somewhere along the line I got lost in the Authors wonderfully articulated ideas of the characters and her beautiful explanations of the scenery and happenings. The way Lucinda cares as a wife I thought inspirational and very far from preachy, which is a trap allot of Christian fiction falls into I find. This book had enough twists to keep me interested and at just the right times.
I was given a advance copy in exchange for a review but that does not sway my opinions.
This book really snuck up on me as I thought it was going to be a enjoyable but predictable average read. Somewhere along the line I got lost in the Authors wonderfully articulated ideas of the characters and her beautiful explanations of the scenery and happenings. The way Lucinda cares as a wife I thought inspirational and very far from preachy, which is a trap allot of Christian fiction falls into I find. This book had enough twists to keep me interested and at just the right times.
I was given a advance copy in exchange for a review but that does not sway my opinions.
May 24, 2024
I enjoyed this. Clean, sweet romance.
May 16, 2023
Despite her physical limitations, Lucinda was willing to take on the challenges that lay ahead on the treacherous journey to Kentucky. I appreciated the way she found a way to push through the obstacles she faced, clinging to her faith at all times.
William had his own scars and demons from the past. But even though he felt he was beyond redemption, he was willing to put himself in danger to rescue Lucinda from the fate her father planned for her.
Both Lucinda and William had to learn that God has a plan for their lives, one which may not be evident in the beginning. They had to learn to not let their scars and ailments prevent them from doing what God has called them to do.
Readers of Rescued in the Wilderness will be reminded that even if they turn their backs on God, He does not abandon them.
I received an advanced reader's copy from the author as part of the launch team; a positive review was not required.
William had his own scars and demons from the past. But even though he felt he was beyond redemption, he was willing to put himself in danger to rescue Lucinda from the fate her father planned for her.
Both Lucinda and William had to learn that God has a plan for their lives, one which may not be evident in the beginning. They had to learn to not let their scars and ailments prevent them from doing what God has called them to do.
Readers of Rescued in the Wilderness will be reminded that even if they turn their backs on God, He does not abandon them.
I received an advanced reader's copy from the author as part of the launch team; a positive review was not required.
May 3, 2023
Rescue in the Wilderness is a wonderful beginning to the Frontier Hearts series—easy to read and hard to put down! This absorbing story features a physically and emotionally scarred hero and heroine both with deep-seated feelings of unworthiness who touched my heart and soul. Set in the late 1700s, Lucinda and William’s story takes us along on their harrowing trek through the Cumberland Gap to settle in Kentucky. The beautifully sketched mountain wilderness setting immersed me in the story as I visualized the events. I greatly appreciate the strong, encouraging faith thread woven throughout the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed this emotional, entertaining historical romance and highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 30, 2023
Wow! What an amazing book! The imagery brings to setting to life! I felt like I was traveling on the trail to Kentucky! The characters are fantastic! Lucinda is fabulous! She suffers from an ailment, but she perseveres through tough circumstances. She's loving and compassionate. William is strong, loving, considerate, and compassionate. They face many trials, but they overcome them. Their faith in God sustains them through difficult times. A definite must read!!!
I was provided a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was provided a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 7, 2023
Such a such a great story. This book is different than Missy Beller’s book but if you like her books then I really recommend this book for you. This book starts out with a surprise and surprises continue throughout the tail. This book has both the female and male characters both being the hero at different times in the story. I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit it, and these opinions are my own.
July 3, 2023
The opening scene of this book was very emotional and I was hooked right away. Lucinda has lived a very sheltered life but not by choice. Her cruel father blames her for her mother’s death and now punishes her by keeping her locked up in the home. We can feel her complete hopelessness and I had to cry. This hit home for me because my parents never once said they loved me and told me every day how stupid I was. Like Lucinda I was abused which made me not trust anyone or even want to get close to anyone. Lucinda became the younger version of me that I never was and I desperately wanted her to be rescued and find love.
William is a loner who mostly lives in the wilderness hunting and occasionally comes into a town for provisions. What he overhears while in a tavern pushes him to do something out of the ordinary for most people. He carries guilt around for something that happened and thus he keeps his distance from everyone. The adventure begins when he and Lucinda join together on a mission that will have lasting effects on both of them.
The treacherous terrain they travel on is unforgiving and at times seemed hopeless. I loved how deeply William cared for Lucinda as her guard starts to come down around him. By accident he discovers some scars on her and you can feel his anger start to rise. It made me think of the scars many of us carry everyday. Some may be visible but a lot are hidden deep in our soul. As the author illustrates, God is there to heal us and give us joy as we begin a new season filled with forgiven and acceptance.
The time period is represented well by details the author provides that make you feel as if you are shivering as the snow falls. The story flows well and is not only a lesson in God’s mercy and forgiveness but in how unconditional love from God sets you free from your past.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
William is a loner who mostly lives in the wilderness hunting and occasionally comes into a town for provisions. What he overhears while in a tavern pushes him to do something out of the ordinary for most people. He carries guilt around for something that happened and thus he keeps his distance from everyone. The adventure begins when he and Lucinda join together on a mission that will have lasting effects on both of them.
The treacherous terrain they travel on is unforgiving and at times seemed hopeless. I loved how deeply William cared for Lucinda as her guard starts to come down around him. By accident he discovers some scars on her and you can feel his anger start to rise. It made me think of the scars many of us carry everyday. Some may be visible but a lot are hidden deep in our soul. As the author illustrates, God is there to heal us and give us joy as we begin a new season filled with forgiven and acceptance.
The time period is represented well by details the author provides that make you feel as if you are shivering as the snow falls. The story flows well and is not only a lesson in God’s mercy and forgiveness but in how unconditional love from God sets you free from your past.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
February 4, 2025
TWO LOST SOULS RESCUE ONE ANOTHER
The story begins on November 11, 1779, in Abingdon, Virginia where William Cole will be in a local tavern having a warm meal. When he is ready to leave he overhears a boisterous Scot announcing that his daughter, Lucinda, will be a woman tomorrow—and he is willing to play hands of cards for a man to win her and be handfasted. William is appalled and heads out, looking for Lucinda.
Lucinda Gillespie lost her mother when she was a young girl, and her father is a bitter man who thinks nothing of beating her, physically and mentally. He does not allow her out of the home, keeping her hidden from others.
The story’s plot will have William showing up at the Gillespie cottage and warning Lucinda of her father’s plotting. He convinces her to trust him, gather a few things, and for them to escape before he—or another man returns to claim her. The choice is the devil you know or the one you don’t. She remembers seeing William on one of her quiet ventures outside—and she knows how her father is.
The story was interesting, full of history, and life and death situations. The story will have them traveling with a small group of people, leaving Virginia, and heading to Kentucky. The weather is a huge factor in the loss of lives, but the most devastating with be Indian attacks. Along the journey, it is decided that for proprietary reasons, the traveling reverend will marry William and Lucinda. He doesn’t feel he is worthy enough to marry and Lucinda feels she is a hindrance—but time, travel, and faith will prove them both wrong. These two broken people will learn that together, they are stronger, and have the tenacity and determination to survive—with the help of God.
I never felt this story was preachy—it showed faith, trust, and the power of prayer. I liked Lucinda and William together—because it was togetherness that helped them overcome adversity.
The story begins on November 11, 1779, in Abingdon, Virginia where William Cole will be in a local tavern having a warm meal. When he is ready to leave he overhears a boisterous Scot announcing that his daughter, Lucinda, will be a woman tomorrow—and he is willing to play hands of cards for a man to win her and be handfasted. William is appalled and heads out, looking for Lucinda.
Lucinda Gillespie lost her mother when she was a young girl, and her father is a bitter man who thinks nothing of beating her, physically and mentally. He does not allow her out of the home, keeping her hidden from others.
The story’s plot will have William showing up at the Gillespie cottage and warning Lucinda of her father’s plotting. He convinces her to trust him, gather a few things, and for them to escape before he—or another man returns to claim her. The choice is the devil you know or the one you don’t. She remembers seeing William on one of her quiet ventures outside—and she knows how her father is.
The story was interesting, full of history, and life and death situations. The story will have them traveling with a small group of people, leaving Virginia, and heading to Kentucky. The weather is a huge factor in the loss of lives, but the most devastating with be Indian attacks. Along the journey, it is decided that for proprietary reasons, the traveling reverend will marry William and Lucinda. He doesn’t feel he is worthy enough to marry and Lucinda feels she is a hindrance—but time, travel, and faith will prove them both wrong. These two broken people will learn that together, they are stronger, and have the tenacity and determination to survive—with the help of God.
I never felt this story was preachy—it showed faith, trust, and the power of prayer. I liked Lucinda and William together—because it was togetherness that helped them overcome adversity.
June 30, 2023
I LOVE Christian Historical Romance books and I enjoy books by "new to me Authors". Rescue in the Wilderness by Andrea Byrd fits both of those categories. It is Book 1 in the Frontier Hearts series.
We are taken to Winter of 1779 in this book! William Cole will never forget the Cruel burden of his life, especially since he has marks that remind him daily. He has lived and traveled by himself for many years as a hunter. He takes action one night when in a tavern and he hears a father offering his daughter up to the next winner in a round of card playing. William CANNOT and Does not sit and allow this to happen. Lucinda Gillespie has lived a secluded and abusive life because her father did not others to see his daughter with an inexplicable illness. She is about to turn 18yrs old and her father now has her in the Tavern offering her up to the men. Lucinda immediately realizes she will be safer with the Mysterious Man who just stood up for her to save her from this abusive life. Lucinda decides to make the journey West with William and leave her abusive father. Will William and Lucinda make a new life together? Will they reveal their secrets and their past to one another? Will they both find the LIFE that God created for them?
WOW, this book was intriguing from the very first chapter. I really LOVED William's character. He has a past that could have broke him, but he choose to live his life by himself as a Hunter! I Lucinda has physical disablities, but that isn't stopping her from living a life and going on a journey with William. This book is filled with History, LOVE, Secrets revealed, Faith and Family! I am looking forward to more books in this series Anyone who enjoys Christian historical books will LOVE this book! WONDERFUL BOOK!
We are taken to Winter of 1779 in this book! William Cole will never forget the Cruel burden of his life, especially since he has marks that remind him daily. He has lived and traveled by himself for many years as a hunter. He takes action one night when in a tavern and he hears a father offering his daughter up to the next winner in a round of card playing. William CANNOT and Does not sit and allow this to happen. Lucinda Gillespie has lived a secluded and abusive life because her father did not others to see his daughter with an inexplicable illness. She is about to turn 18yrs old and her father now has her in the Tavern offering her up to the men. Lucinda immediately realizes she will be safer with the Mysterious Man who just stood up for her to save her from this abusive life. Lucinda decides to make the journey West with William and leave her abusive father. Will William and Lucinda make a new life together? Will they reveal their secrets and their past to one another? Will they both find the LIFE that God created for them?
WOW, this book was intriguing from the very first chapter. I really LOVED William's character. He has a past that could have broke him, but he choose to live his life by himself as a Hunter! I Lucinda has physical disablities, but that isn't stopping her from living a life and going on a journey with William. This book is filled with History, LOVE, Secrets revealed, Faith and Family! I am looking forward to more books in this series Anyone who enjoys Christian historical books will LOVE this book! WONDERFUL BOOK!
July 6, 2023
Rescued in the Wilderness is a Christian historical romance novel set in 1779 by author Andrea Byrd. From the moment I started reading, I was drawn into this beautifully written novel.
This is the story of Lucinda and William. They have each had hard lives and bear scars, both physically and mentally. While at a gathering place, William overhears Lucinda’s mean-spirited father selling her to a man, and William rushes to save her. They set off on an adventure that is filled with danger, trials, faith, and trust.
The author does a fabulous job describing the beauty of the scenery from Virginia to Kentucky. Her characters are unique and realistic. I was invested in their lives and stories. My heart hurt for the past that caused them so much heartache. Both main characters were strong and kind-hearted. I enjoyed many of the secondary characters, too.
There is a beautiful message of faith woven throughout this entire book. The author does an exemplary job illustrating how God is always with us. He provides peace, joy, and healing while encouraging us to forgive those who have wronged us.
I loved the love story element. It was sweet watching walls slowly break down. There were a few twists and turns. I found it to be so interesting that I could not stop reading it until I made it to the end all in one sitting. A real page-turner!
This is a wonderful Christian historical fiction. I highly recommend it and am eagerly awaiting Book 2. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided from CelebrateLit, but these are my honest words.
This is the story of Lucinda and William. They have each had hard lives and bear scars, both physically and mentally. While at a gathering place, William overhears Lucinda’s mean-spirited father selling her to a man, and William rushes to save her. They set off on an adventure that is filled with danger, trials, faith, and trust.
The author does a fabulous job describing the beauty of the scenery from Virginia to Kentucky. Her characters are unique and realistic. I was invested in their lives and stories. My heart hurt for the past that caused them so much heartache. Both main characters were strong and kind-hearted. I enjoyed many of the secondary characters, too.
There is a beautiful message of faith woven throughout this entire book. The author does an exemplary job illustrating how God is always with us. He provides peace, joy, and healing while encouraging us to forgive those who have wronged us.
I loved the love story element. It was sweet watching walls slowly break down. There were a few twists and turns. I found it to be so interesting that I could not stop reading it until I made it to the end all in one sitting. A real page-turner!
This is a wonderful Christian historical fiction. I highly recommend it and am eagerly awaiting Book 2. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided from CelebrateLit, but these are my honest words.
July 6, 2023
Life really could not get any bleaker for Lucinda, or so she thought, I mean she already suffered ailments in her joints, and she had a very pronounced limp. She has also been held prisoner in her abusive father's home for about ten years, and she has learned to keep her head down as much as possible. But she never thought that her father hated her so much that he would gamble her away.
William Cole overhears a conversation that boils his blood. A man is willing to offer his daughter to any man who wins her in a game of poker. Well, William knows of whom he is speaking of, and he will not let her, or any other women endure that disgrace. So, he goes and gets Lucinda and rescues her from her father. Now they are on a very dangerous trail, one that is going westward with hostile peoples and unrelenting bad weather along with challenges on the trail. Both William and Lucinda will need to rely on all the courage they have to get safely through to the other side.
Not only that but they must marry to save Lucinda's reputation, will a genuine love grow, or will Lucinda always be a burden? This was a very rewarding romance between two people who never thought they deserved each other or dreamed of a chance at love.
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.
http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...
William Cole overhears a conversation that boils his blood. A man is willing to offer his daughter to any man who wins her in a game of poker. Well, William knows of whom he is speaking of, and he will not let her, or any other women endure that disgrace. So, he goes and gets Lucinda and rescues her from her father. Now they are on a very dangerous trail, one that is going westward with hostile peoples and unrelenting bad weather along with challenges on the trail. Both William and Lucinda will need to rely on all the courage they have to get safely through to the other side.
Not only that but they must marry to save Lucinda's reputation, will a genuine love grow, or will Lucinda always be a burden? This was a very rewarding romance between two people who never thought they deserved each other or dreamed of a chance at love.
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.
http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...
May 9, 2024
She seems frail, her joints misshapen, her gait marred by a limp, but she has a hidden strength and her faith is strong. But her father blames her for her mother's death and doesn't want to be saddled with her. In fact, he is down at the tavern with a deck of cares, promising her to whichever drunk ends up the overall winner.
He has turned his back on his faith and considers himself ugly and accursed for failing to save his sister from smallpox. With a face marred by pock marks from the disease, many people consider him accursed, or just plain ugly. He is a long hunter - a frontiersman who hunts animals for months at a time, selling the meat and the pelts. But when he hears the man's plans for his daughter, he is beyond disgusted, and vows to rescue the girl.
He tells her where he will take her and what her options will be at each place. Not thinking, at one point he waves the settlers he is guiding to Kentucky to keep on, and shows a natural wonder to the girl. Her reputation is promptly ruined for an unchaperoned trip, and he marries her, mostly to salvage her reputation.
But he is impressed with her, her uncomplaining attitude, her willingness to endure pain for a chance at a new life.
As time goes on, and they get to know one another better, and work together better, will he tell her the burden he carries or not? Will their marriage blossom into one of love, or remain a sham? Will he return to his faith? Will he continue to be a long hunter, or will he settle down?
He has turned his back on his faith and considers himself ugly and accursed for failing to save his sister from smallpox. With a face marred by pock marks from the disease, many people consider him accursed, or just plain ugly. He is a long hunter - a frontiersman who hunts animals for months at a time, selling the meat and the pelts. But when he hears the man's plans for his daughter, he is beyond disgusted, and vows to rescue the girl.
He tells her where he will take her and what her options will be at each place. Not thinking, at one point he waves the settlers he is guiding to Kentucky to keep on, and shows a natural wonder to the girl. Her reputation is promptly ruined for an unchaperoned trip, and he marries her, mostly to salvage her reputation.
But he is impressed with her, her uncomplaining attitude, her willingness to endure pain for a chance at a new life.
As time goes on, and they get to know one another better, and work together better, will he tell her the burden he carries or not? Will their marriage blossom into one of love, or remain a sham? Will he return to his faith? Will he continue to be a long hunter, or will he settle down?
July 16, 2023
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
When William finds himself sitting in a tavern, he hears a man offer up his daughter, and her virtue, to the winner of the next round of cards, he knew he had to rescue this woman, whoever she is. I can only imagine what Lucinda has been through with this man who is suppose to be her father. But at the same time, I could just imagine Lucinda when William shows up at her door and offers her the freedom she so deserves.
Wow! What a sweet story of love and endurance, with faith running throughout the story. I was so happy for these two. Both challenged is some way, both needing healing. I love the characters created by Andrea Byrd as well as how they developed so well as the story is told. I think Byrd does a fabulous job writing this story, it sure kept my attention throughout. I wanted to keep reading so fast to get to the end, and see what happens to William and Lucinda. And I can’t forget mentioning the setting. I love that the setting is one of my favorite vacation spots. We have been all over those Blue Ridge mountains many times.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
When William finds himself sitting in a tavern, he hears a man offer up his daughter, and her virtue, to the winner of the next round of cards, he knew he had to rescue this woman, whoever she is. I can only imagine what Lucinda has been through with this man who is suppose to be her father. But at the same time, I could just imagine Lucinda when William shows up at her door and offers her the freedom she so deserves.
Wow! What a sweet story of love and endurance, with faith running throughout the story. I was so happy for these two. Both challenged is some way, both needing healing. I love the characters created by Andrea Byrd as well as how they developed so well as the story is told. I think Byrd does a fabulous job writing this story, it sure kept my attention throughout. I wanted to keep reading so fast to get to the end, and see what happens to William and Lucinda. And I can’t forget mentioning the setting. I love that the setting is one of my favorite vacation spots. We have been all over those Blue Ridge mountains many times.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
April 28, 2023
Loved Lucinda and William's story!! William doesn't know at first when he overhears her father talking in a tavern that he's met Lucinda before. However, even before he fully figures out who she is, he knows he has to get her away from her father and the plans he has for her. Lucinda has always assumed she would always be a prisoner in her father's house, until the night William comes for her. Lucinda is still sure that marriage and a family are not in her future; after all, her father has always told her she's worthless. William is sure that he's meant to be alone, that no one would want him if they knew of his past. While they are traveling to Kentucky, William feels drawn to Lucinda, and decides he will do everything he can to protect her. Lucinda is draw to William's strength, compassion, and concern. Lucinda helps William to see that his past doesn't define him, and that God still loves him and wants him to return to Him. The more time that passes, the more these two are drawn to each other and to God. I loved the way their relationship with God and each other grows!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
May 27, 2023
I was mesmerized by this story from beginning to end. The author did a phenomenal job of involving the reader into the lives of Lucinda and William. Both characters are broken, almost beyond repair, by today's standards but they rise above what would be humanly possible by sacrificing for each other and leaning on God's strength. William overhears Lucinda's father offering her to any man who wins in a poker game. Can you imagine? What a terrible father! We find out later what other terrible things ways he has abused her and torn down her self-esteem but miraculously, Lucinda is still a beautiful, sweet shining light! Wiliam must rescue Lucinda before her father makes good on this bet, even though she doesn't know him. Imagine the trust involved - taking off into the unknown with a man you've never met but so happy to be leaving the prison that is your home. Lucinda, who has so many health issues, valiantly accompanies William on his journey to Kentucky with a wagon train even though William has many issues of his own. He carries many burdens, physical and mental. He's lived a solitary life for so long that he doesn't know what to do when Lucinda offers her quiet support and love. Truly one of the best books I've read this year!
June 28, 2023
Rescue in the Wilderness (Frontier Hearts Book 1) by Andrea Byrd is a heartwarming read. It is also the first book I remember readding written by this author. A tortured hero and a heroine that has strength and faith. What a wonderful heartwarming story of survive with God’s simple blessings.
William Cole decides to help Lucinda Gillespie escape a cruel father who at the time was gambling away her hand to the winner. The journey that they take is not for the fainthearted but a grueling one of the early westward movement on the Wilderness Trail. William has his demons of guilt but the truth does not come to light until later in the story. It is his kindness and protection that Lucinda sees.
The journey is treacherous and difficult but what a story it makes. It is not a long novel but a lovely escape read on a summer afternoon. This is especially true because of the wonderfully descriptive writing. So well done I felt the cold winter snow, ice and river crossings so I was thankful for the warm weather here as I read. Now I look forward to more by this author, highly recommending Rescue in the Wilderness.
The publisher Wild Hearts Books provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
William Cole decides to help Lucinda Gillespie escape a cruel father who at the time was gambling away her hand to the winner. The journey that they take is not for the fainthearted but a grueling one of the early westward movement on the Wilderness Trail. William has his demons of guilt but the truth does not come to light until later in the story. It is his kindness and protection that Lucinda sees.
The journey is treacherous and difficult but what a story it makes. It is not a long novel but a lovely escape read on a summer afternoon. This is especially true because of the wonderfully descriptive writing. So well done I felt the cold winter snow, ice and river crossings so I was thankful for the warm weather here as I read. Now I look forward to more by this author, highly recommending Rescue in the Wilderness.
The publisher Wild Hearts Books provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
July 13, 2023
Historical fiction is such a fun genre. You never quite know where you’ll travel or who you’ll meet. In this book, we travel back to two people who have dealt with a lot in life. They’re the ones other people consider not worthy or less than others. The ones that will be passed over.
We get to join them as they travel together going west on the Wilderness Trail. It felt like a second chances-type story to me. It’s not one of those books that you absolutely can’t put down, but it truly is a wonderful book with characters that will steal your heart. You’ll actually be content to read a few chapters and come back later to visit your friends and be sad when it ends. Lucky for us, it’s the first in a series and I’m hoping we’ll learn some of the secondary characters stories in the rest of the series.
For a time period think just past the Revolutionary War and moving from Virginia to Kentucky.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
We get to join them as they travel together going west on the Wilderness Trail. It felt like a second chances-type story to me. It’s not one of those books that you absolutely can’t put down, but it truly is a wonderful book with characters that will steal your heart. You’ll actually be content to read a few chapters and come back later to visit your friends and be sad when it ends. Lucky for us, it’s the first in a series and I’m hoping we’ll learn some of the secondary characters stories in the rest of the series.
For a time period think just past the Revolutionary War and moving from Virginia to Kentucky.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
June 14, 2023
Andrea Byrd takes the reader on a journey with two wonderful characters. William Cole rescues the sheltered Lucinda from a potentially devastating forced marriage. Lucinda’s faith in God provides the motive for trusting William.
I loved how Byrd used physical deformities in both characters to draw them closer together. The author wove a sweet romance seamlessly throughout, while giving us plenty of insight into each character’s insecurities and doubts.
The trip through the wilds of early American Virginia and Kentucky provides the perfect forced proximity setting to develop the romance between William and Lucinda. The journey also provides much of the drama with rich historical details.
I strongly recommend this book for fans of Christian historical romance or sweet, clean romance.
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Location: Virginia, Kentucky
Time Period: 1779
Romance: Very clean. Light kissing.
Faith: Both characters learn to rely on God more and learn to let go of false beliefs about Him.
Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of Wild Heart Books through Celebrate Lit Blog Tours. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
I loved how Byrd used physical deformities in both characters to draw them closer together. The author wove a sweet romance seamlessly throughout, while giving us plenty of insight into each character’s insecurities and doubts.
The trip through the wilds of early American Virginia and Kentucky provides the perfect forced proximity setting to develop the romance between William and Lucinda. The journey also provides much of the drama with rich historical details.
I strongly recommend this book for fans of Christian historical romance or sweet, clean romance.
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Location: Virginia, Kentucky
Time Period: 1779
Romance: Very clean. Light kissing.
Faith: Both characters learn to rely on God more and learn to let go of false beliefs about Him.
Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of Wild Heart Books through Celebrate Lit Blog Tours. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
May 31, 2025
Lucinda Gillespie’s father has kept her confined since her mother’s death eleven years before. He’s ashamed of her illness, which keeps her in constant pain. Her mother was the one who’d ever loved her. Her embittered, cruel father blames Lucinda for his wife’s death. She has lived with shame and abuse from the age of seven and sees no end in sight.
William Cole, a lonely hunter, carries his own guilt. Yet when he learns that Lucinda’s father plans to gamble her away on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, he can’t leave her fate in the hands of the drunken victor. He searches for her and tells her of her father’s plans.
She hasn’t left the cabin in over ten years but she must trust God and this stranger who hides his face from her. Their dangerous journey west to Kentucky also fills her with wonder and a sense of freedom she’s never known.
Both main characters struggle with a sense of self-worth. Lucinda clings to the Christian faith her mother had instilled in her. William searches for his faith that a heart-wrenching loss stole from him.
This story tugged at my heart. I was quickly pulled into their plight. It was a page-turner for me.
William Cole, a lonely hunter, carries his own guilt. Yet when he learns that Lucinda’s father plans to gamble her away on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, he can’t leave her fate in the hands of the drunken victor. He searches for her and tells her of her father’s plans.
She hasn’t left the cabin in over ten years but she must trust God and this stranger who hides his face from her. Their dangerous journey west to Kentucky also fills her with wonder and a sense of freedom she’s never known.
Both main characters struggle with a sense of self-worth. Lucinda clings to the Christian faith her mother had instilled in her. William searches for his faith that a heart-wrenching loss stole from him.
This story tugged at my heart. I was quickly pulled into their plight. It was a page-turner for me.
June 24, 2023
Faith filled story of 1779 Virginia. As well as having deformities from an abusive father, Lucinda was born with a chronic illness. William rushes her to safety before her father sells her, removing her to another area, where she decides to travel west. Working as a guide for an overland group to Kentucky, William continues to watch over her. He has his own disfigurement from earlier times. Both are forged by their life difficulties and are strong, but each is also vulnerable and finds it hard to trust and feel worthy of someone's love. Beautifully told. So well written it feels like you're on the journey through the woods and terrain with them. None of us are good enough as we are, only Jesus has made us worthy.
I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#RescueInTheWilderness #AndreaByrd #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #FiveStarNovel #CelebrateLit
I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#RescueInTheWilderness #AndreaByrd #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #FiveStarNovel #CelebrateLit
June 29, 2023
Rescue in the Wilderness, by Andrea Byrd, is the first book in the Frontier Hearts series. This is a well written Christian historical fiction story that grabbed my attention from the very beginning to the end. It left me wishing for more to the story. William is such a caring person. When he over hears a man offers his daughter in a poker game, he goes to there house and takes Lucinda away. Together they travel with a wagon train to get to Kentucky.
This is a wonderful story of two wonderful, caring characters with physical scars who have kept to themselves for so long. I enjoyed reading of the adventure they took. This story is filled with adventure, suspense and a growing relationship. I enjoyed how the two cared for each other through the tragedies that happened on the trail. Their faith and reliance on God to care for them is very strong. With just over 200 pages, this is a nice easy, quick to read story.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
This is a wonderful story of two wonderful, caring characters with physical scars who have kept to themselves for so long. I enjoyed reading of the adventure they took. This story is filled with adventure, suspense and a growing relationship. I enjoyed how the two cared for each other through the tragedies that happened on the trail. Their faith and reliance on God to care for them is very strong. With just over 200 pages, this is a nice easy, quick to read story.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
July 1, 2023
Rescue in the Wilderness by Andrea Byrd is a Christian Historical Romance. Set in the 1700s, this book explores what one man does willingly when he hears another man offering up his daughter and her virtue to the winner of the next round of cards. William Cole and Lucinda Gillespie have both suffered in the past. But when he rescues her and they set out on the Wilderness Trail, the two find themselves moving beyond the pain of their past.
I loved how the author developed both the characters and the storyline. Andrea Byrd does an excellent job illustrating how our perceptions affect our daily lives. I wanted this couple to move beyond a marriage from circumstances to a marriage that God ordained.
From river crossings to injuries to the death of some of their fellow travelers, this book kept me reading. I truly found myself unable to put it down.
So if you enjoy works of Christian Historical Fiction, check out Rescue in the Wilderness by Andrea Byrd for yourself. I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
I loved how the author developed both the characters and the storyline. Andrea Byrd does an excellent job illustrating how our perceptions affect our daily lives. I wanted this couple to move beyond a marriage from circumstances to a marriage that God ordained.
From river crossings to injuries to the death of some of their fellow travelers, this book kept me reading. I truly found myself unable to put it down.
So if you enjoy works of Christian Historical Fiction, check out Rescue in the Wilderness by Andrea Byrd for yourself. I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
July 3, 2023
Rescue in the Wilderness is book one in the Frontier Hearts series that is written by Andrea Byrd. The author does a beautiful job in transporting us back beginning in 1779. I love how accurately she captured the historical detail.
William carries a lot of demons around. He does not think that he is worth anything - and has accepted that he will be by himself the rest of his life. He meets Lucinda, who has some limitations but she finds herself in a not so great situation, thanks to her own father. I liked the banter between these two characters.
I really enjoyed seeing our characters navigate what God has in store for them. That even if we have scars and limitation, God can still use us.
The book is well written. It will draw you in within the first few pages. The characters are well developed. I cannot wait to read the second book - thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
William carries a lot of demons around. He does not think that he is worth anything - and has accepted that he will be by himself the rest of his life. He meets Lucinda, who has some limitations but she finds herself in a not so great situation, thanks to her own father. I liked the banter between these two characters.
I really enjoyed seeing our characters navigate what God has in store for them. That even if we have scars and limitation, God can still use us.
The book is well written. It will draw you in within the first few pages. The characters are well developed. I cannot wait to read the second book - thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews