What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ballantyne Legacy #2
Love's Awakening
The path to true love lies somewhere between two feuding families
In the spring of 1822, Ellie Ballantyne leaves finishing school and returns to the family home in Pittsburg only to find that her parents are away on a long journey and her siblings don't seem to want her to stay. Determined to stand her ground and find her place in the world, Ellie fills her time by opening a day school for young ladies.
But when one of her students turns out to be an incorrigible young member of the Turlock family, Ellie knows she must walk a fine line. Slaveholders and whiskey magnates, the Turlocks are envious of the powerful Ballantynes and suspicious of their abolitionist leanings. As Ellie becomes increasingly entangled with the rival clan--particularly the handsome Jack Turlock--she finds herself falling in love with an impossible future. Will she betray her family and side with the enemy?
Masterful storyteller Laura Frantz continues to unfold the stirring saga of the Ballantyne family in this majestic tale of love and loyalty. This is the Ballantyne Legacy.
In the spring of 1822, Ellie Ballantyne leaves finishing school and returns to the family home in Pittsburg only to find that her parents are away on a long journey and her siblings don't seem to want her to stay. Determined to stand her ground and find her place in the world, Ellie fills her time by opening a day school for young ladies.
But when one of her students turns out to be an incorrigible young member of the Turlock family, Ellie knows she must walk a fine line. Slaveholders and whiskey magnates, the Turlocks are envious of the powerful Ballantynes and suspicious of their abolitionist leanings. As Ellie becomes increasingly entangled with the rival clan--particularly the handsome Jack Turlock--she finds herself falling in love with an impossible future. Will she betray her family and side with the enemy?
Masterful storyteller Laura Frantz continues to unfold the stirring saga of the Ballantyne family in this majestic tale of love and loyalty. This is the Ballantyne Legacy.
410 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2013
168 people are currently reading
2495 people want to read
About the author
Laura Frantz
21 books2,768 followersLaura Frantz is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Frantz lives and writes in a log cabin in the heart of Kentucky.According to Publishers Weekly, "Frantz has done her historical homework." With her signature attention to historical detail and emotional depth, she is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant, Literary Agent & Founder, Books & Such Literary Agency of Santa Rosa, California.Readers can find Laura Frantz at www.laurafrantz.net.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 286 reviews
June 9, 2019
.
Just like the first book in the series, this took awhile for me to get interested in. Love's Awakening was laced with faith, but not at all preachy. And as it unfolds, the reader learns the path to true love lies somewhere between two feuding families. In this sweeping family saga set in western Pennsylvania, one man's choices in love and work, in friends and enemies, set the stage for generations to come. And this book focuses on the second generation, yet still includes some cameos from the first one. It caught me off guard and I found myself disappointed by the prospect.
In the spring of 1822, Ellie Ballantyne leaves finishing school and returns to the family home in Pittsburg only to find that her parents are away on a long journey and her siblings don't seem to want her to stay. Determined to stand her ground and find her place in the world, Ellie fills her time by opening a day school for young ladies.
There were dark and difficult situations, which affected the paths of the families dramatically. The characters are very complex and the plotline shaded on the dark and morose side more times that I cared for. Times in Colonial America were definitely different they are today. I was most grateful with Jack's character growth and honesty.
But when one of her students turns out to be an incorrigible young member of the Turlock family, Ellie knows she must walk a fine line. Slaveholders and whiskey magnates, the Turlocks are envious of the powerful Ballantynes and suspicious of their abolitionist leanings. As Ellie becomes increasingly entangled with the rival clan--particularly the handsome Jack Turlock--she finds herself falling in love with an impossible future. Will she betray her family and side with the enemy?
Eventually, the H.E.A. readers strive to discover throughout the saga emerges, albeit ever so slowly. However, there is a cliffhanger which tends to irk me. So I read the blurb and some reviews for the third installment and I'm personally not reading the third installment that skips forward to another generation and more unanswered questions. For me, one of the benefits of reading a series is that you spend more time with those you have already become acquainted with, watching them grow and flourish. That's just my opinion.
May 22, 2020
Endearing, complex characters, gorgeously drawn setting, and enough history to satisfy me without it ever coming across as dense. I love getting to know Pittsburgh in its early days through the Ballantyne family. (Silas is even dearer as a father than he was as a strapping young blacksmith in the previous book.)
August 19, 2021
4.5 stars! I really enjoyed this book! It had a lot of twists and unexpected turn of events. As with all Laura Frantz books, it was very emotionally intense! I never tire of Laura Frantz’s unique plots and romances and I always get so emotionally attached to her characters. Laura writes in such a way that causes you to feel all the feelings of the character, you understand them and feel you know them so well. I’m surprised I hadn’t heard much from others about this series…I’m throughly enjoying it!! I can’t decide which I liked better this one or the first one—the stories were equally good but very different—I highly recommend both! … Now onto the third! 😊
January 2, 2015
I was thoroughly convinced that Love's Awakening wouldn't come close to the first book, Love's Reckoning, but I quickly realized that was a wrong assumption! Laura Frantz always writes such sweeping stories - Ellie returns home from being "finished" at school, eager to do more than be a pretty pawn in a marriage. Though quiet and genteel, Ellie has a strong spirit. From her to decision to opening a day school to her realization of her families abolitionist activities, the plot points of the story was beautiful and steeped in historical detail.
Ellie Ballantyne might be my favorite lead of all of Frantz's book - never did she imagine that she would fall in love with the son of her father's enemy. "Gentleman" Jack is Ellie's opposite in every way, and their relationship is never easy or conventional. Jack is a somewthat reformed son of the roguish Turlock family and is caught up in the schemes of his family, but longs to change. Though the story is about their relationship, it is also about them as individuals. They both carry their own burdens and must ultimately must make decisions that carry heavy consequences.
I was so happy that Eden and Silas played a big part in the story - I loved them in Love's Reckoning and was glad to see them back. The other surrounding characters were multifaceted as well, especially Ellie's siblings. I love how Frantz weaves hints of whats to come in the final book with Ansel's part in the story. And I'm not sure if Andra was supposed to remind me of the dangerous Elspeth Lee, but either way, I loved that slight similarity in their personalities (though I don't think Andra would ever deliberate harm Ellie in the way that Elspeth did Eden!).
Frantz penned another beautiful romantic historical - full of lush period detail - the river landscape of Pittsburgh in the 1800s, the gorgeous details of Ellie's birthday ball and a climatic courtroom scene - this has all of the elements that I look for in the historical fiction I read. I am so eager to read the conclusion to the Ballantyne Legacy - I almost didn't read the sneak peek in the back of the book. I knew it would leave me wanting more, but I read it anyway because I couldn't stand not reading it!
Superb world-building, gorgeous historic details and a love story that both broke and repaired my heart - Love's Reckoning will definitely be a favorite of the year!
Ellie Ballantyne might be my favorite lead of all of Frantz's book - never did she imagine that she would fall in love with the son of her father's enemy. "Gentleman" Jack is Ellie's opposite in every way, and their relationship is never easy or conventional. Jack is a somewthat reformed son of the roguish Turlock family and is caught up in the schemes of his family, but longs to change. Though the story is about their relationship, it is also about them as individuals. They both carry their own burdens and must ultimately must make decisions that carry heavy consequences.
I was so happy that Eden and Silas played a big part in the story - I loved them in Love's Reckoning and was glad to see them back. The other surrounding characters were multifaceted as well, especially Ellie's siblings. I love how Frantz weaves hints of whats to come in the final book with Ansel's part in the story. And I'm not sure if Andra was supposed to remind me of the dangerous Elspeth Lee, but either way, I loved that slight similarity in their personalities (though I don't think Andra would ever deliberate harm Ellie in the way that Elspeth did Eden!).
Frantz penned another beautiful romantic historical - full of lush period detail - the river landscape of Pittsburgh in the 1800s, the gorgeous details of Ellie's birthday ball and a climatic courtroom scene - this has all of the elements that I look for in the historical fiction I read. I am so eager to read the conclusion to the Ballantyne Legacy - I almost didn't read the sneak peek in the back of the book. I knew it would leave me wanting more, but I read it anyway because I couldn't stand not reading it!
Superb world-building, gorgeous historic details and a love story that both broke and repaired my heart - Love's Reckoning will definitely be a favorite of the year!
Read
August 17, 2015Another beautifully written and historically rich novel from Laura Frantz!
This novel, 2nd in the Ballantyne Legacy series, tells the story of Silas and Eden's daughter, Ellie. She's a Ballantyne through and through, but her heart is won by Jack Turlock, son of a man and woman who loathe the Ballantynes. I haven't read many multi-generational series recently, so it was lovely to delve into Love's Awakending. The opportunity to revisit characters from a previous book 20+ years later lends a story so much depth and all the cozy bonds of family you could hope for. I found this story poetic, gripping, and also informative as it deals with the flight of slaves through Pittsburgh to freedom.
I highly recommend this series!
This novel, 2nd in the Ballantyne Legacy series, tells the story of Silas and Eden's daughter, Ellie. She's a Ballantyne through and through, but her heart is won by Jack Turlock, son of a man and woman who loathe the Ballantynes. I haven't read many multi-generational series recently, so it was lovely to delve into Love's Awakending. The opportunity to revisit characters from a previous book 20+ years later lends a story so much depth and all the cozy bonds of family you could hope for. I found this story poetic, gripping, and also informative as it deals with the flight of slaves through Pittsburgh to freedom.
I highly recommend this series!
January 13, 2023
4 Stars ✨
“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”
ALFRED LORD TENNYSON
Another great book by Frantz. I have now read two of her books and starting on my third to finish out the series. I’m definitely adding her to my “must read” list of authors. She’s drawn me in both times with her beautiful historical imagery and I just get lost in the pages.
Ellie, daughter to Silas and Eden - was such a likable character and I enjoyed getting to know her. This was a beautiful story, full of heart tugs and history. It was also fun to see the Ballantyne family expand. Excited to see which family member the next book is about!
“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”
ALFRED LORD TENNYSON
Another great book by Frantz. I have now read two of her books and starting on my third to finish out the series. I’m definitely adding her to my “must read” list of authors. She’s drawn me in both times with her beautiful historical imagery and I just get lost in the pages.
Ellie, daughter to Silas and Eden - was such a likable character and I enjoyed getting to know her. This was a beautiful story, full of heart tugs and history. It was also fun to see the Ballantyne family expand. Excited to see which family member the next book is about!
May 1, 2015
SUMMARY: In the spring of 1822, Ellie Ballantyne leaves finishing school and returns to the family home in Pittsburg only to find that her parents are away on a long journey and her siblings don't seem to want her to stay. Determined to stand her ground and find her place in the world, Ellie fills her time by opening a day school for young ladies.
But when one of her students turns out to be an incorrigible young member of the Turlock family, Ellie knows she must walk a fine line. Slaveholders and whiskey magnates, the Turlocks are envious of the powerful Ballantynes and suspicious of their abolitionist leanings. As Ellie becomes increasingly entangled with the rival clan--particularly the handsome Jack Turlock--she finds herself falling in love with an impossible future. Will she betray her family and side with the enemy?
Masterful storyteller Laura Frantz continues to unfold the stirring saga of the Ballantyne family in this majestic tale of love and loyalty. This is the Ballantyne Legacy.
REVIEW: The second in the Ballantyne trilogy continues with action, adventure, and romance. The Ballantynes continue to struggle with problems within the family as well as with their fellow Pittsburg citizens as they take their stance as Abolitionists. Frantz again keeps your attention from the first to last page with a detailed and intense storyline.
Jack and Chloe Turlock come across as strong characters trying to escape from their family's legacy. They each fight in their own way but life doesn't necessarily turn out as they had hoped. Sadness and tragedy continue to haunt the Turlock family. Well developed characters with all sorts of problems including even the minor ones add to the richness.
The story brings a depth of emotions, the joy of redemption, and the sadness of judgment woven through with Christ's love that shines just like the light in the cupola of New Hope that called out to family and wanderers. I look forward to reading the conclusion of the Ballantyne Legacy.
But when one of her students turns out to be an incorrigible young member of the Turlock family, Ellie knows she must walk a fine line. Slaveholders and whiskey magnates, the Turlocks are envious of the powerful Ballantynes and suspicious of their abolitionist leanings. As Ellie becomes increasingly entangled with the rival clan--particularly the handsome Jack Turlock--she finds herself falling in love with an impossible future. Will she betray her family and side with the enemy?
Masterful storyteller Laura Frantz continues to unfold the stirring saga of the Ballantyne family in this majestic tale of love and loyalty. This is the Ballantyne Legacy.
REVIEW: The second in the Ballantyne trilogy continues with action, adventure, and romance. The Ballantynes continue to struggle with problems within the family as well as with their fellow Pittsburg citizens as they take their stance as Abolitionists. Frantz again keeps your attention from the first to last page with a detailed and intense storyline.
Jack and Chloe Turlock come across as strong characters trying to escape from their family's legacy. They each fight in their own way but life doesn't necessarily turn out as they had hoped. Sadness and tragedy continue to haunt the Turlock family. Well developed characters with all sorts of problems including even the minor ones add to the richness.
The story brings a depth of emotions, the joy of redemption, and the sadness of judgment woven through with Christ's love that shines just like the light in the cupola of New Hope that called out to family and wanderers. I look forward to reading the conclusion of the Ballantyne Legacy.
January 31, 2019
Love’s Awakening was a satisfying read that kept me captivated until the last page. I loved Ellie as a heroine since she was a gentle and sweet lead. I really am impressed by how Laura Frantz wrote the male lead as -what I would say- a likable bad boy. I feel that’s not an easy feat in Christian fiction. She did a great job of keeping his faults realistic and also building his relationship with Ellie while progressing his faith. It’s hard for me not to give this 5 stars, but it is only because I craved more interaction between the two main characters. Overall, splendid read like always. ... now I have to figure out what happened to Ansel!!
August 9, 2015
I took a chance on another new author to me and it was certainly worth it. This read was full of excitement, love, encouragement and unfortunately sadness. Unwavering hope and trust in Christ certainly prevails itself in this read. This book was some-what like a roller coaster; in life with it's many up's and down's. I did feel like something was missing at the end of this book though; and I think for me it was Chloe.
April 23, 2019
This was my third try on Laura Frantz. I liked the two previous books I read, but did not love them due to the slow start her books have. But there was still something in her writing which made my want to try more of her books. This time I listed to an audiobook and really enjoyed her writing.
Her books are rich in Historical detail, she gives you characters to love and not like and some action/suspense scenes which is probably what makes me coming back to her.
This story continued on Eden and Silas story which started in Love's Reckoning. It would probably be better to read this series in order, but I read the first book a long time ago and forgot a lot of the detail, but the main points were summarized in a chapter when Eden informed her children of her past.
The focus was on the Ballantyne family, who stood up against slavery, and who is a family who produces good fruit in their actions and who they are, vs the Turlocks who is for slavery, treat their slaves badly and are also trying to take the Ballantyne's down. Then you have a Romeo and Juliet love story between Ellie and Jack Turlock, a villain who redeemed themselves and a loss of a favourite character.
Jack was a very likeable "bad boy". I loved how the author used Silas to make a difference in his life when he was still a teenager, and who saw the good in Jack vs just the bad reputation of his surname. Jack was also a great example of stepping out of that cycle of bad decisions and deciding to create a different future by making better decisions.
A lot happened in this story and it is difficult to highlight everything. If you haven't read Laura Frantz before, I would suggest trying this series. The promise of blessing your generation if you follow God is clear in the Ballantyne's family's lives.
Narrator: The narrator delivered a very entertaining story and I enjoyed the scottish accents she gave Silas and Andra.
Her books are rich in Historical detail, she gives you characters to love and not like and some action/suspense scenes which is probably what makes me coming back to her.
This story continued on Eden and Silas story which started in Love's Reckoning. It would probably be better to read this series in order, but I read the first book a long time ago and forgot a lot of the detail, but the main points were summarized in a chapter when Eden informed her children of her past.
The focus was on the Ballantyne family, who stood up against slavery, and who is a family who produces good fruit in their actions and who they are, vs the Turlocks who is for slavery, treat their slaves badly and are also trying to take the Ballantyne's down. Then you have a Romeo and Juliet love story between Ellie and Jack Turlock, a villain who redeemed themselves and a loss of a favourite character.
Jack was a very likeable "bad boy". I loved how the author used Silas to make a difference in his life when he was still a teenager, and who saw the good in Jack vs just the bad reputation of his surname. Jack was also a great example of stepping out of that cycle of bad decisions and deciding to create a different future by making better decisions.
A lot happened in this story and it is difficult to highlight everything. If you haven't read Laura Frantz before, I would suggest trying this series. The promise of blessing your generation if you follow God is clear in the Ballantyne's family's lives.
Narrator: The narrator delivered a very entertaining story and I enjoyed the scottish accents she gave Silas and Andra.
October 8, 2013
Ellie Ballantyne comes home from boarding school to find that her life has gone along without her and that her skills are not wanted by her siblings, so she opens a day school for young ladies.
One of her young student's is Chloe Turlock, the daughter of her family's old rival who has always been jealous of the Ballantynes. Ellie finds her self growing more and more involved with the Turlocks, especially Chloe's handsome older brother Jack. Will she be able to bridge the gap between the feuding families?
A fantastic addition to The Ballantyne Legacy that stands strong as a novel in its own right, but I would strongly advise against missing Love's Reckoning!
Both Ellie and Jack were strong and showed their mettle by breaking free of their family's prejudices. Love's Awakening drew me in from the page, sweeping me away to a young America, fraught with taunt tensions running high and young men and women forging their own futures.
Overall, an epic historical drama that took me with Ellie and Jack every step of their journey, and was nearly impossible to put down--it really made me hate my homework more than usual! Ms. Frantz brought to life a world from years gone by, that realistically brought to the life the struggles and heartaches of the human condition. Highly recommend!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."
One of her young student's is Chloe Turlock, the daughter of her family's old rival who has always been jealous of the Ballantynes. Ellie finds her self growing more and more involved with the Turlocks, especially Chloe's handsome older brother Jack. Will she be able to bridge the gap between the feuding families?
A fantastic addition to The Ballantyne Legacy that stands strong as a novel in its own right, but I would strongly advise against missing Love's Reckoning!
Both Ellie and Jack were strong and showed their mettle by breaking free of their family's prejudices. Love's Awakening drew me in from the page, sweeping me away to a young America, fraught with taunt tensions running high and young men and women forging their own futures.
Overall, an epic historical drama that took me with Ellie and Jack every step of their journey, and was nearly impossible to put down--it really made me hate my homework more than usual! Ms. Frantz brought to life a world from years gone by, that realistically brought to the life the struggles and heartaches of the human condition. Highly recommend!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."
October 17, 2014
Ellie Ballantine is homeward bound, finished with finishing school and fleeing the hounding of the Philadelphia Matrimonial Society. She heads west toward her esteemed family’s estate of New Hope. Then runs headlong into a massive storm. And Jack Turlock.
As the son of one of the largest whisky makers in America, trouble is Jack’s heritage. He is more familiar with the inside of taverns and the local jail than he is with any form of gentility. But when he sees the stranded young woman in a Pittsburg tavern, he feels compelled to intervene. Because once long ago, his neighbor, Ellie, crossed the creek and brought him a sheepdog pup to replace the one he had lost.
Oh, I loved this book! Especially Jack, who is stubborn and self-loathing and incredibly certain that he doesn’t deserve anything resembling joy in his life. Along with the romance, the book centers around the hazards of the abolition movement in early America--the very real peril for people helping slaves escape north at a time when the law both permitted them in Pennsylvania and dictated they be sent home. The conflict throughout the entire novel is fabulous.
Note: While this book is the second in the series, I highly recommend it regardless of whether you have read the first novel.
As the son of one of the largest whisky makers in America, trouble is Jack’s heritage. He is more familiar with the inside of taverns and the local jail than he is with any form of gentility. But when he sees the stranded young woman in a Pittsburg tavern, he feels compelled to intervene. Because once long ago, his neighbor, Ellie, crossed the creek and brought him a sheepdog pup to replace the one he had lost.
Oh, I loved this book! Especially Jack, who is stubborn and self-loathing and incredibly certain that he doesn’t deserve anything resembling joy in his life. Along with the romance, the book centers around the hazards of the abolition movement in early America--the very real peril for people helping slaves escape north at a time when the law both permitted them in Pennsylvania and dictated they be sent home. The conflict throughout the entire novel is fabulous.
Note: While this book is the second in the series, I highly recommend it regardless of whether you have read the first novel.
February 25, 2025
Conceptually, this is an excellent family drama. However, there were too many significant gaps in the timeline and secondary character development/relevance. It is as if the reader is expected to fill in the essential details as we transition from Book 1 Love's Reckoning to Book 2.
Laura Frantz has a unique talent for writing Christian Historical Romance fiction that contains gritty, socially accurate, reality-based events relevant to the time. It has been interesting to go from reading her most recent work to the older material. You can see how beautifully her writing talent has evolved.
Audible version: The narration is a catastrophe (maybe that is why it is part of Audible+). The Scottish accent sounds pure Irish, and the brief attempt at Welsh is embarrassing.
Laura Frantz has a unique talent for writing Christian Historical Romance fiction that contains gritty, socially accurate, reality-based events relevant to the time. It has been interesting to go from reading her most recent work to the older material. You can see how beautifully her writing talent has evolved.
Audible version: The narration is a catastrophe (maybe that is why it is part of Audible+). The Scottish accent sounds pure Irish, and the brief attempt at Welsh is embarrassing.
December 4, 2013
I love words that take you by the hand and lead you deeper into the story-what reader doesn’t? “Love’s Awakening” is one such title I have been hording until just the right reading moment and that moment presented itself to me…and it was so worth the wait.
I didn’t expect anything less than what I received between the gorgeous covers of this historical romance. Characters that brim with spice and spunk and a determination to do what is right in the eyes of God. History is rich in filling between the cracks of the character’s lives, but in a way that does that detract from the story at all but only adds to the fullness of every minute spent within the story.
Ellie and Jack’s love story is no conventional one…fall in love with your father’s enemy? The town’s professed villain? And yet their attraction is so pure…and so passionate. Jack is such a noble hero with the burden of the world on his shoulders which I wanted desperately to see released. And for Ellie to come truly into all her character’s potential.
There is never just one layer to a story like this. Too many between characters, story world and secondary contributors to mention in one simple review and I can’t begin to do the book justice. I can promise it is fully worth the read.
I didn’t expect anything less than what I received between the gorgeous covers of this historical romance. Characters that brim with spice and spunk and a determination to do what is right in the eyes of God. History is rich in filling between the cracks of the character’s lives, but in a way that does that detract from the story at all but only adds to the fullness of every minute spent within the story.
Ellie and Jack’s love story is no conventional one…fall in love with your father’s enemy? The town’s professed villain? And yet their attraction is so pure…and so passionate. Jack is such a noble hero with the burden of the world on his shoulders which I wanted desperately to see released. And for Ellie to come truly into all her character’s potential.
There is never just one layer to a story like this. Too many between characters, story world and secondary contributors to mention in one simple review and I can’t begin to do the book justice. I can promise it is fully worth the read.
May 10, 2024
Beautiful historical romance! I loved seeing another generation of the Ballantyne's and this one involves feuding families and lots of forced proximity. It also doesn't shy away from the abolitionist movement that was such a large part of that time in history. Enjoyed every bit of it!
August 29, 2015
Elinor "Ellie" Ballantyne, just twenty years old and the jewel of her father's heart, flees finishing school and the matchmaking mamas of Philadelphia society, hungry for home and purpose. She is determined to shed some measure of her sheltered upbringing and embrace the Ballantyne steel of her heritage, vowing to make her own way in the world. But much has changed in her absence, and Ellie is ill-prepared for the simmering tensions between the pro-slavery and abolitionist movement, nor the depth of her family's involvement in the latter. However, the greatest danger may hail from the most unexpected quarter -- losing her heart to the son of the enemy -- the engmatic, and wholly unsuitable, Jack Turlock.
The rivalry between the Ballantynes and unscrupulous, whiskey-making Turlocks hails from Silas Ballantyne's early days in Pittsburgh, becoming further embittered when Isabel O'Hara, daughter of Silas's one-time friend and mentor, marries into the Turlock clan in a fit of pique when Silas chose Eden as his bride. And from that point, the die was cast: the Ballantynes respectable and virtuous, the Turlocks and their famed hell-raising ever a thorn in their -- and all respectable society's -- side.
Jack would like nothing more than to shed his family's unsavory reputation and start afresh. But ever aware of what he's seen and done, he was resigned to the burden of his familial heritage of violence and deceit, until a chance encounter with Ellie awakens feelings he'd long thought buried. Ellie's innocence and guileless acceptance of him as he is awakens in Jack the audacity to hope for a finer, better life. When his father and brother's plans threaten to destroy everything Ellie holds dear, Jack is left with a choice: the life he was raised to or faith in the God the Ballantynes claim and His promise of redemption.
While I like to stay current with favorite authors, it has been such a treat to lose myself in each successive installment of The Ballantyne Legacy without that pesky year-long wait between releases. Though the much-loved Silas and Eden are absent for half the novel, their presence is ever felt, underscoring Frantz's thesis of the heritage of faith, inherited through generations.
The Jack and Ellie relationship is not only one of my favorite tropes in romantic fiction -- adversaries to lovers -- but it is a gorgeously-wrought exploration of inheritance and choice. Colored with shades of Romeo and Juliet's warring families, Jack and Ellie's blossoming attraction is, at first blush, nought but an impossible dream. Separated by a gulf of familial rivalry and distrust, political ideologies, and most crucially, faith, here Frantz sketches a love story all the more memorable because of the transformative power of faith at its heart.
Love's Awakening has a two-fold meaning -- Jack and Ellie, certainly, but also the agape love of one human being to another regardless of race or creed. The sacrificial love those who claim Christ are called to live each day is woven throughout each page, as Frantz places her characters in the eye of the storm brewing over slavery. The Ballantynes and Jack participate in the early skirmishes between pro-slavers and abolitionists in Pennsylvania of the 1820's seeds of the great conflict to come later in the century that would rend the nation in two. As Jack quickly discovers, the Ballantynes' abolitionist efforts are a call to action, a study in the cost, danger, and rewards of putting faith in action.
Frantz has always delivered emotionally intense novels. Her heart-stopping romances are a hallmark of her work, as is her unparalleled ability to bring the past to life on the page, all on display here. But in Love's Awakening, in the final oact of Ellie and Jack's story she delivers her most action-packed epic yet. It is no exaggeration to say that my heart was racing as I breathlessly turned the pages, eager to see the finale unfold in all its high stakes, cinematic grandeur.
Like it's predecessor, Love's Awakening is a story of inheritance, both for good and ill. The Ballantyne Legacy is an unflinchingly honest study of faith and choice and the power of both to resound through future generations. A stunning romance, suspense, and heartbreak -- this is Frantz at her finest. I cannot wait to discover what's in store for the final Ballantyne installment!
The rivalry between the Ballantynes and unscrupulous, whiskey-making Turlocks hails from Silas Ballantyne's early days in Pittsburgh, becoming further embittered when Isabel O'Hara, daughter of Silas's one-time friend and mentor, marries into the Turlock clan in a fit of pique when Silas chose Eden as his bride. And from that point, the die was cast: the Ballantynes respectable and virtuous, the Turlocks and their famed hell-raising ever a thorn in their -- and all respectable society's -- side.
Jack would like nothing more than to shed his family's unsavory reputation and start afresh. But ever aware of what he's seen and done, he was resigned to the burden of his familial heritage of violence and deceit, until a chance encounter with Ellie awakens feelings he'd long thought buried. Ellie's innocence and guileless acceptance of him as he is awakens in Jack the audacity to hope for a finer, better life. When his father and brother's plans threaten to destroy everything Ellie holds dear, Jack is left with a choice: the life he was raised to or faith in the God the Ballantynes claim and His promise of redemption.
While I like to stay current with favorite authors, it has been such a treat to lose myself in each successive installment of The Ballantyne Legacy without that pesky year-long wait between releases. Though the much-loved Silas and Eden are absent for half the novel, their presence is ever felt, underscoring Frantz's thesis of the heritage of faith, inherited through generations.
The Jack and Ellie relationship is not only one of my favorite tropes in romantic fiction -- adversaries to lovers -- but it is a gorgeously-wrought exploration of inheritance and choice. Colored with shades of Romeo and Juliet's warring families, Jack and Ellie's blossoming attraction is, at first blush, nought but an impossible dream. Separated by a gulf of familial rivalry and distrust, political ideologies, and most crucially, faith, here Frantz sketches a love story all the more memorable because of the transformative power of faith at its heart.
Love's Awakening has a two-fold meaning -- Jack and Ellie, certainly, but also the agape love of one human being to another regardless of race or creed. The sacrificial love those who claim Christ are called to live each day is woven throughout each page, as Frantz places her characters in the eye of the storm brewing over slavery. The Ballantynes and Jack participate in the early skirmishes between pro-slavers and abolitionists in Pennsylvania of the 1820's seeds of the great conflict to come later in the century that would rend the nation in two. As Jack quickly discovers, the Ballantynes' abolitionist efforts are a call to action, a study in the cost, danger, and rewards of putting faith in action.
Frantz has always delivered emotionally intense novels. Her heart-stopping romances are a hallmark of her work, as is her unparalleled ability to bring the past to life on the page, all on display here. But in Love's Awakening, in the final oact of Ellie and Jack's story she delivers her most action-packed epic yet. It is no exaggeration to say that my heart was racing as I breathlessly turned the pages, eager to see the finale unfold in all its high stakes, cinematic grandeur.
Like it's predecessor, Love's Awakening is a story of inheritance, both for good and ill. The Ballantyne Legacy is an unflinchingly honest study of faith and choice and the power of both to resound through future generations. A stunning romance, suspense, and heartbreak -- this is Frantz at her finest. I cannot wait to discover what's in store for the final Ballantyne installment!
September 30, 2013
Ellie Ballantyne comes home suddenly to find her parents on a trip and her siblings busy with other things. To keep herself from being bored, Ellie decides to start tutoring the young ladies of Pittsburg in the social graces. When one of her students is discovered to be a Turlock, tension already high between the two families escalates even higher. As Ellie finds herself drawn more and more to the secrets her family is hiding and to one of the Turlock men, Jack, she soon finds herself torn in two directions. What price will she pay for falling in love with the enemy?
When I read the first book in this series last year, Love's Reckoning, I was amazed at how beautifully written and engrossing it was. I had high hopes for this book. I was not disappointed. It was just as beautiful and emotionally gripping as the first. I loved how Jack wanted to be his own man and not live under the stigma of his family's misdeeds. I didn't like Ellie at first. I thought that she was, for lack of a better word, a wimp. But as her story progressed and I began to see the layers to her character, she grew on me.
I really loved this book. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy for free to review from Revell Books. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of JoAnne Bischof, Laura Frantz, drama, Julie Lessman
Rating - 5 stars - well deserving for a beautiful story
Available September 2014 at your local bookstore from Revell Books, a divisihon of Baker Publishing Group.
When I read the first book in this series last year, Love's Reckoning, I was amazed at how beautifully written and engrossing it was. I had high hopes for this book. I was not disappointed. It was just as beautiful and emotionally gripping as the first. I loved how Jack wanted to be his own man and not live under the stigma of his family's misdeeds. I didn't like Ellie at first. I thought that she was, for lack of a better word, a wimp. But as her story progressed and I began to see the layers to her character, she grew on me.
I really loved this book. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy for free to review from Revell Books. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of JoAnne Bischof, Laura Frantz, drama, Julie Lessman
Rating - 5 stars - well deserving for a beautiful story
Available September 2014 at your local bookstore from Revell Books, a divisihon of Baker Publishing Group.
September 28, 2013
Having read Laura Frantz's "Love's Reckoning", I was so excited to get a copy of the second book in the series, "Love's Awakening". The story of Ellie Ballantyne and Jack Turlock won my heart. The two come from neighboring estates and walk the same circles in society-- but are limited by their families differences that at many times seem to crush the budding love between these two. This story was so beautifully written, with such richly drawn characters that it was impossible to put down and I found myself reading not only late into the night, but waking up and thinking about the story so much, I had to turn the light on to read just a few more pages in the wee small hours! I love it when a story does that and when it's a book by Laura Frantz, I know it's a keeper! This book pulled at my heartstrings in such a way that I won't soon forget.
April 8, 2024
I absolutely LOVE it!!! This is the first book from Laura that I've had the opportunity to read. I loved it and I love her! Laura's way of writing is beautiful and riveting! From the prologue I was intrigued if not a little "what is going on!?" :D I think if I had read the first in the series I would have known better what was going on. Anyway Laura caught me up and filled me in as the book progressed. Starting out with a bang and throwing me right into the lives of the characters right out of the gate! I absolutely LOVE the Ballantyne family as well as the other characters and the ways they grow within the story! Parts broke my heart and then others stitched it back together. :) I found the historical parts wonderfully interesting, the over all conflict capturing, and I really enjoyed how music and the instruments Laura chose are entwined throughout. BUT OH THAT ENDING!!! Totally blew me out of the water with the cliff hanger and I can't WAIT for the next book I did have a problem with some of the Scottish words. I loved them being in the book I just wish there had been a dictionary in the front or back of the book. Some of the words I was able to figure out as I read on, some where close enough to English I could figure them out, but some had me stumped. There are quotations before every chapter which I loved, but I wish, because of the font, they were a little bit bigger. Sometimes I had to re-read them a few times, with my nose on the page, to make out all the words (but that could just be my bad eyes...). Anyway I really enjoyed the sayings and quotations and I feel they added to the story, wrapping in with each chapter! The adventure is great, the danger raises the suspense to the ceiling, and love ties it all together. I laughed, I cried, and I even cheered a time or two (quietly and privately because people give me strange looks when I do those things in public). This is a must read and can not be missed!
The soundtrack. Music is entwined in this book so much that it was so hard for me to narrow it down. So this soundtracks list is long:
"Sonata ('Lesson') No. 1 in D major (1761), III Gavotta" by Edward Witsenburg,
"Scots March and Strathspeys: The 91st at Modder River/Strathspey/Lime Hill" by Kathleen Collins,
"Strathspey/Reel Set (Iron Man to Spoot O' Skerry)" by Jo Morrison,
"Irish Fiddle Waltz" by Best of the Fiddle,
"Pride Of Erin Waltz: The Wind On The Heath, The Rosebud Of Allenvale, Farewell To Scotland" by Caledonian Fiddle Orchestra In Concert,
"Swallow Tail Jig" by Best of the Fiddle,
"Celtic Fiddle Jig" by Best of the Fiddle,
"Celtic Reel (Scottish Wedding Party Mix)" by The MacDonald Bros,
"Scottish Reel" by The Scottish Bagpipes Highland Pipes,
"J.S. Bach: Adagio - Adagio" by The Academy of Ancient Music,
"'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus" by Joyful Harps,
"Rock of Ages" by Joyful Harps
Psalm 125:1
~ASC
*I received this book from Revell for the purpose of giving an honest review. This in no was affected my opinion and the above it how I truly fell about Love's Awakening. ~ASC
The soundtrack. Music is entwined in this book so much that it was so hard for me to narrow it down. So this soundtracks list is long:
"Sonata ('Lesson') No. 1 in D major (1761), III Gavotta" by Edward Witsenburg,
"Scots March and Strathspeys: The 91st at Modder River/Strathspey/Lime Hill" by Kathleen Collins,
"Strathspey/Reel Set (Iron Man to Spoot O' Skerry)" by Jo Morrison,
"Irish Fiddle Waltz" by Best of the Fiddle,
"Pride Of Erin Waltz: The Wind On The Heath, The Rosebud Of Allenvale, Farewell To Scotland" by Caledonian Fiddle Orchestra In Concert,
"Swallow Tail Jig" by Best of the Fiddle,
"Celtic Fiddle Jig" by Best of the Fiddle,
"Celtic Reel (Scottish Wedding Party Mix)" by The MacDonald Bros,
"Scottish Reel" by The Scottish Bagpipes Highland Pipes,
"J.S. Bach: Adagio - Adagio" by The Academy of Ancient Music,
"'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus" by Joyful Harps,
"Rock of Ages" by Joyful Harps
Psalm 125:1
~ASC
*I received this book from Revell for the purpose of giving an honest review. This in no was affected my opinion and the above it how I truly fell about Love's Awakening. ~ASC
October 18, 2013
Once again, author Laura Frantz has crafted a literary masterpiece that sweeps the reader along the banks of the weeping willow and poplar tree-lined Allegheny River---to the elegant surrounding plantations shrouded in secrecy, deceit, betrayal, and hidden passions.
The lovely Ellie Ballantyne decides it is high time to return to her family's plantation, New Hope, after spending time at a finishing school in Philadelphia. As she encounters a dangerous storm on her way home, who should offer to escort her home but the equally dangerous, Jack Turlock...the son of a wealthy whiskey magnate and sworn enemy to the Ballantyne family. As Ellie opens a school for girls, she finds herself traveling often to Jack's plantation, River Hill, to teach his 13 year old sister the fine art of becoming a lady.
Futile feelings begin to smolder between the two of them, as Ellie and Jack realize her family would never allow her to marry a Turlock...with their pro-slavery views and dealings in the whiskey industry. Ellie finds that things have changed at New Hope since she was away, discovering secrets that could endanger and destroy her entire family if discovered. As Jack prepares to leave River Hill to rid his heart and mind of Ellie Ballantyne forever, she receives crushing news concerning him, plunging her life into darkness and despair. Can she find love again with Daniel Cameron, a man who has been wooing her incessantly and surely more worthy of a Ballantyne?
Laura Frantz has done it again! She is truly a master storyteller who interweaves as many twists and turns in her stories as the Allegheny River. I was mesmerized as this story played out and even as terribly brooding as Jack Turlock was, I instantly fell in love with him...as I do with all of Ms. Frantz's handsome heroes. This author is one of the best at creating romantic tension and I found myself catching my breath more than once while reading. With a spellbinding historical plot, this is one beautifully written novel you won't soon forget. Guaranteed to evoke powerful emotions in the reader...this one goes at the top of my 2013 list of favorites!
The lovely Ellie Ballantyne decides it is high time to return to her family's plantation, New Hope, after spending time at a finishing school in Philadelphia. As she encounters a dangerous storm on her way home, who should offer to escort her home but the equally dangerous, Jack Turlock...the son of a wealthy whiskey magnate and sworn enemy to the Ballantyne family. As Ellie opens a school for girls, she finds herself traveling often to Jack's plantation, River Hill, to teach his 13 year old sister the fine art of becoming a lady.
Futile feelings begin to smolder between the two of them, as Ellie and Jack realize her family would never allow her to marry a Turlock...with their pro-slavery views and dealings in the whiskey industry. Ellie finds that things have changed at New Hope since she was away, discovering secrets that could endanger and destroy her entire family if discovered. As Jack prepares to leave River Hill to rid his heart and mind of Ellie Ballantyne forever, she receives crushing news concerning him, plunging her life into darkness and despair. Can she find love again with Daniel Cameron, a man who has been wooing her incessantly and surely more worthy of a Ballantyne?
Laura Frantz has done it again! She is truly a master storyteller who interweaves as many twists and turns in her stories as the Allegheny River. I was mesmerized as this story played out and even as terribly brooding as Jack Turlock was, I instantly fell in love with him...as I do with all of Ms. Frantz's handsome heroes. This author is one of the best at creating romantic tension and I found myself catching my breath more than once while reading. With a spellbinding historical plot, this is one beautifully written novel you won't soon forget. Guaranteed to evoke powerful emotions in the reader...this one goes at the top of my 2013 list of favorites!
September 29, 2013
After having read five books by this author, I'm of a mind that nobody has mastered the craft of weaving a delightfully entertaining and romantic tale better than Laura Frantz. From the very first chapter to the very last line of every book, and possibly none more so than with her latest, Love's Awakening, I have been hooked. The second book in the Ballantyne Legacy is a winner!
With complex and engaging characters, historic Pittsburgh has been brought to life as I've never seen it before. Being a native to the area, I couldn't help but be half in love with this story before I even turned the first page and I'm happy to say it lived up to, and greatly surpassed, my already high expectations. I'd love to think that some of my ancestors could have easily traveled the paths that Ellie did in this story. Love's Awakening is by far my favorite of the series and sweet Ellie Ballantyne one of my favorite heroines brought to life by Frantz. It was easy to picture a genteel lady struggling with love and faith in a rough, rapidly evolving city. Our hero, Jack Turlock, is as equally an impressive character. Without giving anything away, let's just say he's a delish reformed rogue. Who doesn't love a bad boy? I never thought anyone could top Red Shirt from her previous novel Courting Morrow Little, but I think he may have a rival in Gentleman Jack! ;-)
Everything about Love's Awakening captures the essence of great Christian fiction. Perfectly balanced with love, just a bit of adventure, and a lot of history I could not find a thing I did not enjoy when it came to this book! If you're looking for a story that engages the mind and the heart definitely consider this book and this series!
*I receive complimentary books for review from the publisher. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
With complex and engaging characters, historic Pittsburgh has been brought to life as I've never seen it before. Being a native to the area, I couldn't help but be half in love with this story before I even turned the first page and I'm happy to say it lived up to, and greatly surpassed, my already high expectations. I'd love to think that some of my ancestors could have easily traveled the paths that Ellie did in this story. Love's Awakening is by far my favorite of the series and sweet Ellie Ballantyne one of my favorite heroines brought to life by Frantz. It was easy to picture a genteel lady struggling with love and faith in a rough, rapidly evolving city. Our hero, Jack Turlock, is as equally an impressive character. Without giving anything away, let's just say he's a delish reformed rogue. Who doesn't love a bad boy? I never thought anyone could top Red Shirt from her previous novel Courting Morrow Little, but I think he may have a rival in Gentleman Jack! ;-)
Everything about Love's Awakening captures the essence of great Christian fiction. Perfectly balanced with love, just a bit of adventure, and a lot of history I could not find a thing I did not enjoy when it came to this book! If you're looking for a story that engages the mind and the heart definitely consider this book and this series!
*I receive complimentary books for review from the publisher. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
September 11, 2013
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2XJ5RP3...
Review on my blog (to be posted 9/24): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Since I really loved book one in the Ballantyne Legacy series, Love's Reckoning, my expectations for Love's Awakening were very high. This book exceeded my expectations and, like book one, is now a favorite read of mine.
The characters were fantastic and so real. I loved Jack, Chloe, and all of the Ballantynes. It's hard to choose a favorite character, since they were all so great, but Jack was probably my favorite. Even though I didn't know what to expect from him at first, Jack completely won me over and he was such a wonderful hero!
Love's Awakening was a very moving read - there were many scenes where I got misty-eyed (whether from sadness or happiness) because of things that had happened. I was also so engrossed in the story and just loved every minute of this book.
The history in Love's Awakening was great and I definitely learned more about the Underground Railroad and Pennsylvania. The story had some sad scenes, but that made it all the more realistic.
Overall, Love's Awakening is a wonderful addition to the Ballantyne Legacy series and I can't wait to read the next book. I recommend this book to fans of historical romance.
*I received this book for free for my honest review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Available September 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Review on my blog (to be posted 9/24): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Since I really loved book one in the Ballantyne Legacy series, Love's Reckoning, my expectations for Love's Awakening were very high. This book exceeded my expectations and, like book one, is now a favorite read of mine.
The characters were fantastic and so real. I loved Jack, Chloe, and all of the Ballantynes. It's hard to choose a favorite character, since they were all so great, but Jack was probably my favorite. Even though I didn't know what to expect from him at first, Jack completely won me over and he was such a wonderful hero!
Love's Awakening was a very moving read - there were many scenes where I got misty-eyed (whether from sadness or happiness) because of things that had happened. I was also so engrossed in the story and just loved every minute of this book.
The history in Love's Awakening was great and I definitely learned more about the Underground Railroad and Pennsylvania. The story had some sad scenes, but that made it all the more realistic.
Overall, Love's Awakening is a wonderful addition to the Ballantyne Legacy series and I can't wait to read the next book. I recommend this book to fans of historical romance.
*I received this book for free for my honest review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Available September 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
February 21, 2016
This was a really good historical Christian romance novel. The characters are well drawn, and I really liked the way the main characters were revealed throughout the course of the book, and how the main man grew to have faith in God and how he learned to be his own man and not to kowtow to his father's expectations. So, I really enjoyed this novel although considering how the first book in the novel had concluded, I was expecting a different focus in this book than there was; however, I still looked forward to finishing up this series and to reading more by this author, as I've thoroughly enjoyed all the books I've read by her so far.
November 10, 2021
Great story about two very different families with very different ideals, one of the families dangerous. The Ballantyne are abolitionists who host slaves and prepare them for the journey that will lead them to freedom. The Turlocks father is a whiskey producer and one of the sons is a drunk and the other brother, Jack, falls for lovely Ellie Ballantyne. Troubles began and the story is interspersed with twists and turns before true redemption occurs. Can’t wait to read Book 3.
August 23, 2015
I want to give this a 4.5. I liked it so much better than the first book, which felt so dark and dreary, especially with Elspeth. I liked Jack and Ellie. I was really into the story and the suspense with the slaves. I found that I didn't care so much about the love aspect and was really into Silas and Ellie's relationship and Ellie's relationship with Chloe.
June 26, 2023
I've reread this book so many times. Jack Turlock is one of my all time favorite MMCs, and the Romeo/Juliette opposites attract romance gets me every time.
A personal favorite of Laura Frantz's books. 💛
A personal favorite of Laura Frantz's books. 💛
August 25, 2017
A wonderfully written, historically interesting, and poignant tale of redemption in Christ and staying true to one's convictions.
Engaging as always, this Laura Frantz book hooked me with an easy to read style, multiple povs, and complex family dynamics. My only complaint is that the characters who were very judgmental were a little single faceted. Frantz tried to develop those characters more, but most were caricatures.
Aside from that minor quibble, there was much to enjoy in this book. The slow developing romance between the MCs was a delight. There was no real OP drama. The historical context was eye opening and the anguish that the H felt about being a part of his family was gripping. I appreciated the fact that things weren't resolved overnight for him, but rather slowly over the course of many months. He decided to change his life on his own, not because he saw a beautiful girl and had to have her. The change seemed hard fought for and genuine. The feeling that I have upon finishing this book was one of encouragement.
So why only 3 stars? The H's struggle with self hatred and loathing was a bit depressing.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. If you're a believer and enjoy historical romance give this book a try.
Engaging as always, this Laura Frantz book hooked me with an easy to read style, multiple povs, and complex family dynamics. My only complaint is that the characters who were very judgmental were a little single faceted. Frantz tried to develop those characters more, but most were caricatures.
Aside from that minor quibble, there was much to enjoy in this book. The slow developing romance between the MCs was a delight. There was no real OP drama. The historical context was eye opening and the anguish that the H felt about being a part of his family was gripping. I appreciated the fact that things weren't resolved overnight for him, but rather slowly over the course of many months. He decided to change his life on his own, not because he saw a beautiful girl and had to have her. The change seemed hard fought for and genuine. The feeling that I have upon finishing this book was one of encouragement.
So why only 3 stars? The H's struggle with self hatred and loathing was a bit depressing.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. If you're a believer and enjoy historical romance give this book a try.
January 13, 2023
Another great Ballantyne story!
It was so fun to meet the next generation with Silas and Eden's kids. I was annoyed with two of her kids and loved the other two. Side note, I thought it was strange that 2 of the kids had accents and 2 didn't.
The two who weren't so great seemed to have the same thoughts on Silas not helping runaway slaves. Just a reminder that even though kids grow up in the same home doesn't mean they'll all believe and feel the same way. That's clear in this family.
It's interesting how their daughter, Ellie, comes to fall in love with the son of one of the characters from the previous book. It certainly throws a wrench into their lives when Jack Turlock starts to spurn the work of his family. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Jack grow and change, especially when he's treated well.
And Elspeth shows up once again in this story. I always want to toss her into the Monongahela River! She's older now, but still causes plenty of trouble.
The faith in this story can't and shouldn't be overlooked. Watching the Lord work through the Ballantyne family is wonderful!
It was so fun to meet the next generation with Silas and Eden's kids. I was annoyed with two of her kids and loved the other two. Side note, I thought it was strange that 2 of the kids had accents and 2 didn't.
The two who weren't so great seemed to have the same thoughts on Silas not helping runaway slaves. Just a reminder that even though kids grow up in the same home doesn't mean they'll all believe and feel the same way. That's clear in this family.
It's interesting how their daughter, Ellie, comes to fall in love with the son of one of the characters from the previous book. It certainly throws a wrench into their lives when Jack Turlock starts to spurn the work of his family. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Jack grow and change, especially when he's treated well.
And Elspeth shows up once again in this story. I always want to toss her into the Monongahela River! She's older now, but still causes plenty of trouble.
The faith in this story can't and shouldn't be overlooked. Watching the Lord work through the Ballantyne family is wonderful!
August 31, 2019
Aj tato cast bola krasna 😁. Nemam jej co vytknut. Pokracovanie linie Ballantyneovcov v ich domove Nova nadej bolo uchvatne...ako boli vykresleni vsetci súrodenci, ako pokracovali vztahy z minulosti a ako zasahovali do pritomnosti. Ako bola opisana zivotna cesta Ellie a Jacka...vsetko bolo prudko citatelne 😍. Laura Frantz jednoznačne vie ako zaujat...a vôbec na to nepotrebuje tony sexu 😉. Tak...hor sa na 3. cast....
March 20, 2021
Like the first book in the Ballantyne Legacy series, I absolutely loved this second installment. Author Laura Frantz never fails to keep me turning pages, plus I love her lyrical writing style. Am looking forward to reading the next in the series sometime soon. Have a few more on Laura's backlist to catch up on too so more of her good reads ahead!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 286 reviews