What do you think?
Rate this book
Civil War Heroines #1
The Quaker and the Rebel
Bestselling author Mary Ellis presents A Heart Divided, Book 1 of her brand-new Civil War historical romance series, which tells the stories of brave women in times of testing and the men who love them.
Emily Harrison's life has been turned upside down. At the beginning of the Civil War, she bravely attempted to continue her parents' work as conductors in the Underground Railroad until their Ohio farm was sold in foreclosure. Now alone, she accepts a position as a governess with a doctor's family in slave-holding Virginia. Perhaps she can continue her rescue efforts from there.
Alexander Hunt is the doctor's handsome nephew. While he does not deny a growing attraction to his uncle's newest employee, he cannot take time to pursue Emily. Alex is not at all what he seems--rich, spoiled, and indolent. He is the elusive Gray Wraith, a Quaker leader of Rebel partisans. A man of the shadows, he carries no firearm and wholeheartedly believes in Emily's antislavery convictions.
The path before Alex and Emily is complicated and sometimes life threatening. The war brings betrayal, entrapment, and danger to both of them. Amid their growing feelings for each other, can they find faith in God amid the challenges they face and trust in the possibility for a bright future together?
Emily Harrison's life has been turned upside down. At the beginning of the Civil War, she bravely attempted to continue her parents' work as conductors in the Underground Railroad until their Ohio farm was sold in foreclosure. Now alone, she accepts a position as a governess with a doctor's family in slave-holding Virginia. Perhaps she can continue her rescue efforts from there.
Alexander Hunt is the doctor's handsome nephew. While he does not deny a growing attraction to his uncle's newest employee, he cannot take time to pursue Emily. Alex is not at all what he seems--rich, spoiled, and indolent. He is the elusive Gray Wraith, a Quaker leader of Rebel partisans. A man of the shadows, he carries no firearm and wholeheartedly believes in Emily's antislavery convictions.
The path before Alex and Emily is complicated and sometimes life threatening. The war brings betrayal, entrapment, and danger to both of them. Amid their growing feelings for each other, can they find faith in God amid the challenges they face and trust in the possibility for a bright future together?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
About the author
Mary Ellis
42 books271 followersMary Ellis is a former schoolteacher turned USA Today bestselling author who’s written twenty-six novels including Amish fiction, historical romance, and suspense. Her first mystery, Midnight on the Mississippi, was a finalist for the RT Magazine’s Reviewer’s Choice Award and a finalist for the Daphne du Maurier Award. Her latest book is One for the Road from the Bourbon Tour Mysteries from Severn House. One Hundred Proof Murder releases August 31, 2021. Her latest Amish novella is Missing at Amazon Kindle. She enjoys gardening and bicycling and lives in Ohio with her husband and dog. www.maryellis.net or www.facebook.com/Mary.Ellis.Author
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 12, 2016
Miss Emily Harrison, a Quaker from Ohio, has accepted a role as governess for the slave-owning Bennington family in Virginia in the early months of the Civil War. My first impression of Emily was of a self-righteous, judgemental and naïve young lady, someone who has been raised in an insular anti-slavery environment and who hasn’t yet learned that life isn’t all black and white. I found her to be an unlikeable heroine, and that affected the whole book for me. That’s not just my opinion—Emily’s employer calls her “stubborn, wilful, and opinionated”, and Mr Alexander Wesley Hunt, her love interest, says “things aren’t as simple as your small, narrow mind would like them to be”.
It didn’t help that we didn’t find out Emily’s personal history until well into the story (why was she, as a Northerner, working in the South?). It was also never adequately explained how and why she got involved with the Underground Railroad—I thought this subplot could have had substantial impact, whereas it actually seemed like a contrived way of getting Emily in the right (wrong?) place at the right time.
I understand that she is against slavery from a biblical and ethical viewpoint. But that’s no reason to be rude to a slave who is merely trying to do his job. It’s not as though he chose to be a slave. I found her initial assumption that every black person was a slave annoying, and asking a black man whether he was a slave bordered on insulting, not just to the man she is asking but to his employer (or and owner)—her host. Perhaps it might have come across better if her actions had been balanced against a Christian faith, but they weren’t. While Emily was a Quaker, there was no indication of any personal faith in God—her religion appeared to be little more than a set of rules.
Alex had potential as a character. He is secretly the Gray Wraith (based on a real life character known as the Gray Ghost), stealing supplies from the Union to give to the Confederates. He is attracted to Emily (it seems) for no other reason than she isn’t attracted to him. Unfortunately, this came across as a bit of a cliché, probably because I found Emily so unlikeable (his liking of Emily also made me question his intelligence and discernment).
When it’s good, the writing is as good as anything I’ve read. But then it slips from active scenes into passive telling, backstory and omniscient point of view, which brings the forward pace to a grinding halt, and it then takes an age to get going again. And while both the main characters did change during the five years covered by the book, I felt I was being told they had changed, rather than shown. The Quaker and the Rebel had a promising blurb, but overall, the plot and characters aren’t strong or interesting enough to overlook the faults.
Thanks to Harvest House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
It didn’t help that we didn’t find out Emily’s personal history until well into the story (why was she, as a Northerner, working in the South?). It was also never adequately explained how and why she got involved with the Underground Railroad—I thought this subplot could have had substantial impact, whereas it actually seemed like a contrived way of getting Emily in the right (wrong?) place at the right time.
I understand that she is against slavery from a biblical and ethical viewpoint. But that’s no reason to be rude to a slave who is merely trying to do his job. It’s not as though he chose to be a slave. I found her initial assumption that every black person was a slave annoying, and asking a black man whether he was a slave bordered on insulting, not just to the man she is asking but to his employer (or and owner)—her host. Perhaps it might have come across better if her actions had been balanced against a Christian faith, but they weren’t. While Emily was a Quaker, there was no indication of any personal faith in God—her religion appeared to be little more than a set of rules.
Alex had potential as a character. He is secretly the Gray Wraith (based on a real life character known as the Gray Ghost), stealing supplies from the Union to give to the Confederates. He is attracted to Emily (it seems) for no other reason than she isn’t attracted to him. Unfortunately, this came across as a bit of a cliché, probably because I found Emily so unlikeable (his liking of Emily also made me question his intelligence and discernment).
When it’s good, the writing is as good as anything I’ve read. But then it slips from active scenes into passive telling, backstory and omniscient point of view, which brings the forward pace to a grinding halt, and it then takes an age to get going again. And while both the main characters did change during the five years covered by the book, I felt I was being told they had changed, rather than shown. The Quaker and the Rebel had a promising blurb, but overall, the plot and characters aren’t strong or interesting enough to overlook the faults.
Thanks to Harvest House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
August 1, 2016
Emily was hot and cold this whole book just not a joy to read about. One minute she was warm as apple pie and then plain persnickety. There was nice witty banter between the two and Ellis is a good writer so it flowed well; but I wanted less angst between the two and more adventure with the whole family. Less sap!!
April 9, 2016
For a Quaker, a person of peace and simplicity, Emily is extremely strong-minded, apt to lose her temper, and tempted toward vanities - she likes pretty dresses, a touch of make-up, and a bit of male attention. She is quick to judge the Benningtons and Hunts as evil for keeping slaves, even under much fairer and more positive conditions than much of the South, yet she promptly lies to them and uses them to further her own ends, not to mention judges them (and does so unfairly). Given her tendency toward bigotry, an apt verse for her would be, "How can you say to your brother, 'let me remove the speck from your eye,' and look, a plank is in your own? Hypocrite! Remove first the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye" (Matt 7:4-5). She has far to go to realize the kindness and goodness in her employers and their family.
Given that Emily and Alexander are firmly planted on opposite sides of the war, I could not anticipate how they were going to compromise enough develop a relationship in the first place, let alone forge one strong enough to survive the war. Both Emily and Alexander are stiff with pride; she is strongly prejudiced against the South and he against the North, and though they both agree that slavery is wrong, they disagree on how to abolish it. However, they both grow - Emily out of her bigoted idealism, and Alexander out of the dissipated lifestyle into which he had fallen.
The story grew on me. At first I was frustrated with both of the main characters - Emily especially - but as the plot increases in danger and excitement and they learn to set aside their prejudices, they improve remarkably. Since neither the North nor the South embodies "good" or "evil," and since neither character is secretly working on the same side as the other, I could not anticipate what the outcome of the story would be, other than supposing that the two would find a way to compromise and fall in love and knowing that the Union would ultimately win. Would Alexander abandon his role as the Grey Wraith to be with Emily? Would he join Emily in helping slaves to freedom? Would Emily get herself caught while freeing slaves? Would battle catch up with them and strike them with the deaths of friends and family? It is nice to read a novel in which the plot could go so many different ways that one cannot expect what is to come.
Thank you Harvest House and Netgalley for providing a free, advance e-copy for the purpose of review. I was not required to make it positive; all opinions expressed are my own.
Given that Emily and Alexander are firmly planted on opposite sides of the war, I could not anticipate how they were going to compromise enough develop a relationship in the first place, let alone forge one strong enough to survive the war. Both Emily and Alexander are stiff with pride; she is strongly prejudiced against the South and he against the North, and though they both agree that slavery is wrong, they disagree on how to abolish it. However, they both grow - Emily out of her bigoted idealism, and Alexander out of the dissipated lifestyle into which he had fallen.
The story grew on me. At first I was frustrated with both of the main characters - Emily especially - but as the plot increases in danger and excitement and they learn to set aside their prejudices, they improve remarkably. Since neither the North nor the South embodies "good" or "evil," and since neither character is secretly working on the same side as the other, I could not anticipate what the outcome of the story would be, other than supposing that the two would find a way to compromise and fall in love and knowing that the Union would ultimately win. Would Alexander abandon his role as the Grey Wraith to be with Emily? Would he join Emily in helping slaves to freedom? Would Emily get herself caught while freeing slaves? Would battle catch up with them and strike them with the deaths of friends and family? It is nice to read a novel in which the plot could go so many different ways that one cannot expect what is to come.
Thank you Harvest House and Netgalley for providing a free, advance e-copy for the purpose of review. I was not required to make it positive; all opinions expressed are my own.
August 10, 2014
THE QUAKER AND THEE REBEL is Ms. Ellis' first published historical--and the first book in the Civil War Heroines Series. Set during the Civil War, it is a different twist than most Civil War novels featuring main characters on opposite sides of the war. Alexander is the Rebel--and Emily is the Yankee. But... that said, Alexander is also the Quaker and Emily is also the rebel, running a portion of the Underground Railroad.
Emily is much more opinionated than I am familiar with in historical romances, too. Strong female leads are customary, but ones that deliberately offend their employers upon meeting them is not something I think I've read before. Emily was narrow-minded, opinionated, and spoiled. I did like Alexander. I loved his spirit, his teasing, his fun nature--and I figured out his secret identity as soon as the elusive confederate thief was mentioned. (Good thing it isn't a plot spoiler, since it's on the back cover and revealed in the first fifty pages.)
Fans of Ms. Ellis' Amish romances and historical romance fans alike will likely applaud this newest series. Discussion questions are included in the back as well as a preview to the second book in the series, The Lady and the Officer (which is in my to-be read pile)
Emily is much more opinionated than I am familiar with in historical romances, too. Strong female leads are customary, but ones that deliberately offend their employers upon meeting them is not something I think I've read before. Emily was narrow-minded, opinionated, and spoiled. I did like Alexander. I loved his spirit, his teasing, his fun nature--and I figured out his secret identity as soon as the elusive confederate thief was mentioned. (Good thing it isn't a plot spoiler, since it's on the back cover and revealed in the first fifty pages.)
Fans of Ms. Ellis' Amish romances and historical romance fans alike will likely applaud this newest series. Discussion questions are included in the back as well as a preview to the second book in the series, The Lady and the Officer (which is in my to-be read pile)
June 14, 2017
This book continues the introductory novella featuring Quaker Emily Harrison who has become a governess for a Virginia slave-holding family. Emily loves the Hunt family, but her staunch belief in the sanctity of all human life leads her to secret rendevouz to help slaves on the plantation through the underground railroad.
With plenty of twists and turns and some sparks flying between Emily and Alexander, Mary Ellis wove an interesting and entertaining plot that brought the Civil War from a southern perspective to life. It was also intriguing to see the Civil War through the eyes of both a Quaker and a free slave. This plot definitely presented the complexities of the Civil War and how people could have their point of view change as they observed the war from different perspectives.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "No one is safe in this world. Our future is in God's hands."
"Wisdom must come with age. This couple had no need to lie or deceive each other. No need to be anything other than what they were. Without knowing the future or their fate, they trusted the Lord and rested in the sweet shelter of the other's love. Nothing else in the world seemed quite as precious as that."
With plenty of twists and turns and some sparks flying between Emily and Alexander, Mary Ellis wove an interesting and entertaining plot that brought the Civil War from a southern perspective to life. It was also intriguing to see the Civil War through the eyes of both a Quaker and a free slave. This plot definitely presented the complexities of the Civil War and how people could have their point of view change as they observed the war from different perspectives.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "No one is safe in this world. Our future is in God's hands."
"Wisdom must come with age. This couple had no need to lie or deceive each other. No need to be anything other than what they were. Without knowing the future or their fate, they trusted the Lord and rested in the sweet shelter of the other's love. Nothing else in the world seemed quite as precious as that."
September 17, 2014
Personally, I didn't feel as if the two characters really loved each other. Honestly, how much time did they spend with each other? Barely a few pages. They talk here and there, but I never got a reason why they were in love. In fact, I found out heroine Emily to be among the worst sort. She was insulting. Her entire "I never touch anything that slaves' hands have touch" was meant to be enlightened, but it came off as snobbish. She did all she could to push her views on others because she was always right. We were supposed to root for her, but I found her just as "evil" as the slave owners she was fighting against. She didn't learn a lesson by the end of the book and still gets her prize.
March 1, 2023
The first 100 pages of this novel were terrible. I almost gave up reading it. But as you learn about Alexander and his service with the Rangers it was interesting. The duplicity of both main characters was interesting to see how the story would go. The idea of the villain was good but brought out way to late in the story. So much could have been done with that character. I see a good premise for a story but the execution feel flat.
November 7, 2014
The Quaker and the Rebel was a delightful read that intertwined two lesser known subjects of the Civil War, the Underground Railroad and Rangers. Both of these intense subjects made for an exciting book. Ellis's attention to detail brought history to life. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 8, 2026
I found this novel very frustrating. As a Quaker, I'm always interested to see how non-Quaker authors decide to present the perspectives of their Quaker characters (and to contrast that with the various ways that Quaker authors represent theirs). The author's view in this novel seems to be that sticking to your principles is both annoying and potentially dangerous. There are a few Quaker women in this novel, and the ones that Ms. Ellis seems to admire are those who live their faith by submitting to their husbands' decisions. Perhaps they have some sort of soft influence in her opinion, that causes them to be able to bend their husbands' views over time. The Quaker son, Alexander, is influenced by his mother to the extent that he doesn't steal from individuals but from the northern Army to support the southern cause. I've been thinking about the core argument here, and it seems to be that the south might gradually have given over their way of thinking about owning people without all of the bloodshed of the war, and that Emily's work for the Underground Railroad put slaves who were in a happy situation already at risk of being caught by slave catchers. I did find Ellis's depiction of Emily's youthful impetuousness somewhat compelling, but I felt that she took the argument that her main character's beliefs about slavery were misguided too far.
November 12, 2018
I liked the story, but I found the characters inconsistent. That was frustrating, and I found myself not relating to them nor caring much what happened to them. SPOILERS: If Alexander was done with women, why did he flirt immediately and shamelessly? Why was Emily so inconsistent with her Quaker upbringing? If she's a farm girl, how was she so comfortable conversing with those not of her class (she learned it in school?)? And when one is attracted to another but finds their character repulsive, that's not love--that's infatuation.
May 24, 2017
* spoiler alert
I loved the historical aspect. the descriptions were so vivid! However, I couldn't fully understand some of Emily's thought processes, she is so hot and cold in her feelings for Alexander. Perhaps if I were Quaker her actions might make more sense. Yet, I can't imagine anyone who claims to be as steadfast religious as she claims, to sneak into a man's bedroom at night!
I loved the historical aspect. the descriptions were so vivid! However, I couldn't fully understand some of Emily's thought processes, she is so hot and cold in her feelings for Alexander. Perhaps if I were Quaker her actions might make more sense. Yet, I can't imagine anyone who claims to be as steadfast religious as she claims, to sneak into a man's bedroom at night!
May 15, 2017
I enjoyed this book a lot. It's more exciting than Beverly Lewis' works and is very similar to Jocelyn Green's. Lewis' Amish focus is somewhat in this work with Green's subject matter included. I recommend reading this for sure, especially for Amish and historical fiction book enthusiasts.
July 26, 2024
Two people, both with strong beliefs and both with secrets, develop a relationship during the civil war.
February 11, 2014
About the Book:
Bestselling author Mary Ellis presents A Heart Divided, Book 1 of her brand-new Civil War historical romance series, which tells the stories of brave women in times of testing and the men who love them.
Emily Harrison's life has been turned upside down. At the beginning of the Civil War, she bravely attempted to continue her parents' work as conductors in the Underground Railroad until their Ohio farm was sold in foreclosure. Now alone, she accepts a position as a governess with a doctor's family in slave-holding Virginia. Perhaps she can continue her rescue efforts from there.
Alexander Hunt is the doctor's handsome nephew. While he does not deny a growing attraction to his uncle's newest employee, he cannot take time to pursue Emily. Alex is not at all what he seems--rich, spoiled, and indolent. He is the elusive Gray Wraith, a Quaker leader of Rebel partisans. A man of the shadows, he carries no firearm and wholeheartedly believes in Emily's antislavery convictions.
The path before Alex and Emily is complicated and sometimes life threatening. The war brings betrayal, entrapment, and danger to both of them. Amid their growing feelings for each other, can they find faith in God amid the challenges they face and trust in the possibility for a bright future together?
About the Author:
Mary Ellis and her husband live near the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area, home to the last remaining GAR Hall in Ohio, and Hale Farm and Village, home to annual encampments and reenactments of Civil War battles. She is an active member of the local historical society and Civil War Roundtable where she served as secretary for several years. She has enjoyed a lifelong passion for American history.
My Review:
Set during the turbulent backdrop of the Civil War, Emily Harrison is forced to seek employment in a whole new place. She counted on the fact that it would be tough but never counted on it being this tough. With Matthew away it seems difficult to go on without him. He is fighting in the volunteer infantry and soon when this war is over and his fighting is done they can get married. But until then she will have to earn her place in this world and that all seems to begin at the Bennington's in Virginia, where she is governess to the Dr. and Mrs. Bennington's two daughters.
Everything sort of got off to a slow, rough start when after a kitchen mishap Emily meets Alexander which is the Bennington's nephew. Emily forgot about Matthew for a second after setting her eyes on Alexander. She couldn't really understand why he would effect her the way he does if she is promised to another. But its not far into the book before you can see the chemistry between the two.
It isn't long before Emily's plans are turned upside down. Will Alexander be able to trust a woman again or will he walk away from Emily knowing the intense feelings she gives him? And poor Emily she has become so heart broken will she be able to accept another love so soon? This book is very difficult to put down. I love the mystery, intrigue, and the romance that is created between the two main characters. Can't wait for the second book in the series.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Harvest House.
Bestselling author Mary Ellis presents A Heart Divided, Book 1 of her brand-new Civil War historical romance series, which tells the stories of brave women in times of testing and the men who love them.
Emily Harrison's life has been turned upside down. At the beginning of the Civil War, she bravely attempted to continue her parents' work as conductors in the Underground Railroad until their Ohio farm was sold in foreclosure. Now alone, she accepts a position as a governess with a doctor's family in slave-holding Virginia. Perhaps she can continue her rescue efforts from there.
Alexander Hunt is the doctor's handsome nephew. While he does not deny a growing attraction to his uncle's newest employee, he cannot take time to pursue Emily. Alex is not at all what he seems--rich, spoiled, and indolent. He is the elusive Gray Wraith, a Quaker leader of Rebel partisans. A man of the shadows, he carries no firearm and wholeheartedly believes in Emily's antislavery convictions.
The path before Alex and Emily is complicated and sometimes life threatening. The war brings betrayal, entrapment, and danger to both of them. Amid their growing feelings for each other, can they find faith in God amid the challenges they face and trust in the possibility for a bright future together?
About the Author:
Mary Ellis and her husband live near the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area, home to the last remaining GAR Hall in Ohio, and Hale Farm and Village, home to annual encampments and reenactments of Civil War battles. She is an active member of the local historical society and Civil War Roundtable where she served as secretary for several years. She has enjoyed a lifelong passion for American history.
My Review:
Set during the turbulent backdrop of the Civil War, Emily Harrison is forced to seek employment in a whole new place. She counted on the fact that it would be tough but never counted on it being this tough. With Matthew away it seems difficult to go on without him. He is fighting in the volunteer infantry and soon when this war is over and his fighting is done they can get married. But until then she will have to earn her place in this world and that all seems to begin at the Bennington's in Virginia, where she is governess to the Dr. and Mrs. Bennington's two daughters.
Everything sort of got off to a slow, rough start when after a kitchen mishap Emily meets Alexander which is the Bennington's nephew. Emily forgot about Matthew for a second after setting her eyes on Alexander. She couldn't really understand why he would effect her the way he does if she is promised to another. But its not far into the book before you can see the chemistry between the two.
It isn't long before Emily's plans are turned upside down. Will Alexander be able to trust a woman again or will he walk away from Emily knowing the intense feelings she gives him? And poor Emily she has become so heart broken will she be able to accept another love so soon? This book is very difficult to put down. I love the mystery, intrigue, and the romance that is created between the two main characters. Can't wait for the second book in the series.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Harvest House.
February 18, 2017
The Quaker and The Rebel
(Civil War Heroines series, Book #1)
by Mary Ellis rcenamo
**This is a Christian historical fiction with romance book**
He wanted to use her.
She wanted to use him.
Neither thought love was possible... especially during the Civil War.
Emily Harrison is from Ohio and pro-Union;
her parents were abolitionists, and the man she thought she was falling in love with was a Union soldier.
Still, she decided to take a job as a governess for a Southern family in Virginia.....
Alexander Hunt is anything but the typical rich kind of guy.
With a knack for getting men to follow his lead without firing a weapon,
he becomes a Confederate legendary hero.
Exasperating, frustrating, and charming till the end,
he'll keep you on your toes!
Captain Nathan Smith is the kind of guy you find yourself curling up your fists every time he appears .... you will be glad to leave him behind.
Lila and William have their own story to share.
There is very little fighting in this book;
the most graphic part, in fact,
is the prison towards the end of the book.
This is the first book I have read by Mary Ellis,
and I can safely say I am eagerly looking forward to reading other books by her!
(Civil War Heroines series, Book #1)
by Mary Ellis rcenamo
**This is a Christian historical fiction with romance book**
He wanted to use her.
She wanted to use him.
Neither thought love was possible... especially during the Civil War.
Emily Harrison is from Ohio and pro-Union;
her parents were abolitionists, and the man she thought she was falling in love with was a Union soldier.
Still, she decided to take a job as a governess for a Southern family in Virginia.....
Alexander Hunt is anything but the typical rich kind of guy.
With a knack for getting men to follow his lead without firing a weapon,
he becomes a Confederate legendary hero.
Exasperating, frustrating, and charming till the end,
he'll keep you on your toes!
Captain Nathan Smith is the kind of guy you find yourself curling up your fists every time he appears .... you will be glad to leave him behind.
Lila and William have their own story to share.
There is very little fighting in this book;
the most graphic part, in fact,
is the prison towards the end of the book.
This is the first book I have read by Mary Ellis,
and I can safely say I am eagerly looking forward to reading other books by her!
January 7, 2014
The premise really drew me in for this book. I mean, really...a conductor in the Underground Railroad falling for a Rebel leader? How intriguing!
A devout Quaker, Emily took the job as governess intending to convince slaves to take the first step towards freedom and views the South as the enemy, especially after her parents were beaten and her fiance killed. Alexander Hunt is the son of a wealthy horse breeder, and as the elusive Gray Wraith, his non-violent band of rangers raids deliveries of medicine, food, and money, which he hands over to the Confederate army.
"If I run into the Gray Wraith, I shall shoot him between the eyes and spare the Union Army the task." ~ Emily
It took awhile for me to understand how Alexander could fall for haughty Emily. But it came to me in a light bulb moment. Emily stood out from the crowd of Southern belles clamoring for Alexander's attention, so different, so willing to risk her life for her anti-slavery beliefs. As the Gray Wraith, they were kindred souls, just on opposite sides of the war.
But during her employment with the Bennington's, Emily discovered that things weren't as she initially believed. The Bennington's and the Hunt's treated their slaves with respect, and had allowed many to buy back their freedom. Alexander even championed their release. They welcomed her into their family, shattering her notion that all slave holders were privileged and shallow, and her opinions, and her attitude, changed over the course of the book.
As an avid romance lover, The Quaker and The Rebel started off a bit slow for me, but I'm so glad I kept reading. What it lacked in actual romantic wooing and sweet words (after all, there was a war going on!), it made up for in depth and character growth. The Quaker and The Rebel transcends romance. It's about the ugly stains of prejudice; it's about how we allow past experiences or other people's opinions to poison our attitudes and control our thoughts. It's about a family and how they accepted Emily and her narrow-minded self into their midst, and then pardoned her sins and showered her with love and grace when she most needed it. Don't pick up The Quaker and The Rebel expecting just a romance. No. Because you'll get a whole lot more.
Disclaimer: Sending a big thank you to Mary Ellis and Harvest House Publisher for providing me with a copy of The Quaker and The Rebel for review. The opinions expressed here are my own, and I received no compensation.
A devout Quaker, Emily took the job as governess intending to convince slaves to take the first step towards freedom and views the South as the enemy, especially after her parents were beaten and her fiance killed. Alexander Hunt is the son of a wealthy horse breeder, and as the elusive Gray Wraith, his non-violent band of rangers raids deliveries of medicine, food, and money, which he hands over to the Confederate army.
"If I run into the Gray Wraith, I shall shoot him between the eyes and spare the Union Army the task." ~ Emily
It took awhile for me to understand how Alexander could fall for haughty Emily. But it came to me in a light bulb moment. Emily stood out from the crowd of Southern belles clamoring for Alexander's attention, so different, so willing to risk her life for her anti-slavery beliefs. As the Gray Wraith, they were kindred souls, just on opposite sides of the war.
But during her employment with the Bennington's, Emily discovered that things weren't as she initially believed. The Bennington's and the Hunt's treated their slaves with respect, and had allowed many to buy back their freedom. Alexander even championed their release. They welcomed her into their family, shattering her notion that all slave holders were privileged and shallow, and her opinions, and her attitude, changed over the course of the book.
As an avid romance lover, The Quaker and The Rebel started off a bit slow for me, but I'm so glad I kept reading. What it lacked in actual romantic wooing and sweet words (after all, there was a war going on!), it made up for in depth and character growth. The Quaker and The Rebel transcends romance. It's about the ugly stains of prejudice; it's about how we allow past experiences or other people's opinions to poison our attitudes and control our thoughts. It's about a family and how they accepted Emily and her narrow-minded self into their midst, and then pardoned her sins and showered her with love and grace when she most needed it. Don't pick up The Quaker and The Rebel expecting just a romance. No. Because you'll get a whole lot more.
Disclaimer: Sending a big thank you to Mary Ellis and Harvest House Publisher for providing me with a copy of The Quaker and The Rebel for review. The opinions expressed here are my own, and I received no compensation.
January 3, 2014
Author Mary Ellis is known for her Amish novels, but she's begun a new series, called Civil War Heroines, with the first release being The Quaker and the Rebel. The story spans the majority of the war, ending after Lee's surrender. Historical Flavor: Ms. Ellis based her character of Alexander on the Rebel notables Gen. John Hunt Morgan and Colonel Mosby.
Emily means well, but from page one, she displays a tendency for trouble. When she's not offending her new employer, she's offending the cook.
Then there's Alexander. They offend each other and continue to do so on most occasions. I'm one of those readers (and movie-goers) who likes snappy friction between the hero and heroine, so I liked the sparring between Emily and Alexander. But don't worry, there are lots of kisses.
Betrayed once, with deadly consequences, Alexander finds it hard to trust another woman, but the prickly governess continues to draw him to her. However, when he and a fellow officer discover Emily in a place she shouldn't be, the suspicion mounts. Is she a spy for the Union? He reaches a point when he must decide whether to trust her motives or not.
I really enjoyed the friendship of Emily and Lila, a "free woman of color." During the second half of the book, after their friendship deepens, the dialog between them sparkles with humor.
I will admit, I was not a fan of the heroine until later in the book. Yes, Emily has a noble cause, but she is a bit arrogant about it. She knows best and has little respect for southerners and their lifestyle. Over time, her feelings for Alexander and his generous family sparked Emily's character growth and she became more likable to me.
The story moves quickly and kept me turning the pages. Regardless of the time and place, it centers around the love story, so don't expect it to delve too deeply into the horrors of the war and slavery.
If you're compiling your 2014 reading list, for a quick and entertaining read, consider adding Mary Ellis's The Quaker and the Rebel.
Disclosure of Material Connection: This book came to me free from the publisher, Harvest House, with the hope that I would mention it on this blog. There was no requirement for me to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Emily means well, but from page one, she displays a tendency for trouble. When she's not offending her new employer, she's offending the cook.
Then there's Alexander. They offend each other and continue to do so on most occasions. I'm one of those readers (and movie-goers) who likes snappy friction between the hero and heroine, so I liked the sparring between Emily and Alexander. But don't worry, there are lots of kisses.
Betrayed once, with deadly consequences, Alexander finds it hard to trust another woman, but the prickly governess continues to draw him to her. However, when he and a fellow officer discover Emily in a place she shouldn't be, the suspicion mounts. Is she a spy for the Union? He reaches a point when he must decide whether to trust her motives or not.
I really enjoyed the friendship of Emily and Lila, a "free woman of color." During the second half of the book, after their friendship deepens, the dialog between them sparkles with humor.
I will admit, I was not a fan of the heroine until later in the book. Yes, Emily has a noble cause, but she is a bit arrogant about it. She knows best and has little respect for southerners and their lifestyle. Over time, her feelings for Alexander and his generous family sparked Emily's character growth and she became more likable to me.
The story moves quickly and kept me turning the pages. Regardless of the time and place, it centers around the love story, so don't expect it to delve too deeply into the horrors of the war and slavery.
If you're compiling your 2014 reading list, for a quick and entertaining read, consider adding Mary Ellis's The Quaker and the Rebel.
Disclosure of Material Connection: This book came to me free from the publisher, Harvest House, with the hope that I would mention it on this blog. There was no requirement for me to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
June 30, 2014
Oh my word. Never before has a book changed my mind so strongly on any particular subject than
"The Quaker and the Rebel"
by Mary Ellis!
I have never been a fan of war romances... WWII, WWI or Civil war - but here I sit, a converted FAN! And I can not wait until the next book.
Reading about the outcome of so many tragic battles and the stealth need to help abused slaves escape to freedom in a dry history book simply can not give you the same impact as reading about your heroine's reaction to the horror and danger associated with the very same things.
Mary Ellis gives us all of that - first through the eyes of a staunch Quaker who is disturbed by the Southern lack of understanding as to why owning another human being is wrong, and then through the eyes of a gentile southern gentleman who is trying to do everything he can to help his precious south move into the future with as little bloodshed as possible.
It is an adventure that won't soon be forgotten and it has given me an entirely new outlook on this portion of our country's troubled past. I will never look at another Civil War battlefield the same way again, I can assure you!
Not only that... the book is extremely well-written. You can hear the skirts swish, the hooves pound and even feel the pain of corset stays. The experiences are written with such emotion attached, as well as descriptive language. And, while it is not described in the ugliest terms, nothing about the tragedy and hardship about this particular time on our bloody history is glossed over.
Mary Ellis has made a fan out of me - a new reader who is eagerly awaiting her next book and wondering if I dare read anyone else's books, for fear that they may not be in the same ballpark. I suppose I have no other choice, at least until her next book arrives in stores. I shall have to haunt the local library and find anything else that I can and hope it is equally appealing.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
What a story!
I have never been a fan of war romances... WWII, WWI or Civil war - but here I sit, a converted FAN! And I can not wait until the next book.
This book will make you laugh, make you cry and it will give you an entirely new outlook on the Civil war era!
Reading about the outcome of so many tragic battles and the stealth need to help abused slaves escape to freedom in a dry history book simply can not give you the same impact as reading about your heroine's reaction to the horror and danger associated with the very same things.
Mary Ellis gives us all of that - first through the eyes of a staunch Quaker who is disturbed by the Southern lack of understanding as to why owning another human being is wrong, and then through the eyes of a gentile southern gentleman who is trying to do everything he can to help his precious south move into the future with as little bloodshed as possible.
It is an adventure that won't soon be forgotten and it has given me an entirely new outlook on this portion of our country's troubled past. I will never look at another Civil War battlefield the same way again, I can assure you!
Not only that... the book is extremely well-written. You can hear the skirts swish, the hooves pound and even feel the pain of corset stays. The experiences are written with such emotion attached, as well as descriptive language. And, while it is not described in the ugliest terms, nothing about the tragedy and hardship about this particular time on our bloody history is glossed over.
Mary Ellis has made a fan out of me - a new reader who is eagerly awaiting her next book and wondering if I dare read anyone else's books, for fear that they may not be in the same ballpark. I suppose I have no other choice, at least until her next book arrives in stores. I shall have to haunt the local library and find anything else that I can and hope it is equally appealing.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2013
When Emily Harrison takes a job as governess for the Bennington girls she has no idea what she is getting herself into. After the death of her parents, Emily is forced to sell their farm and seek employment until her fiancée returns. With the Benningtons Emily find a very kind family, but with one flaw. They’re slave owners. As a Quaker Emily is appalled by slavery and becomes very outspoken against the institution. She goes so far as to confront Mr. Bennington publicly drawing the ire of those who witness it. But Emily refuses to back down and is soon involved in work with the Underground Railroad.
Alexander Hunt is drawn to the “Yankee governess” despite her haughty and prickly ways, not to mention their difference of opinions. But she has her secrets that he hasn’t discovered yet. Come to that Alexander has his won secrets. As the Civil War begins he takes his place in the headlines as the legendary Gray Wraith who has been wreaking havoc on Union forces. As time goes by tensions run high. Can Emily and Alexander learn to trust each other?
Let me start by saying that I like “The Quaker and the Rebel” but there was also much that I didn’t like (e.g. mention of immoral incidents, overly sappy). The two main characters were not exactly agreeable people. They were both irritating – not shallow, just…unlikable. Mr. and Mrs. Bennington were really the only people that seemed to have any sense. Rather than firing their fiery governess they were very understanding of Emily even sheltering her. And speaking of Emily, she does good true but goodness – she’s so ungracious. But there was lots of history and humor. Some of the characters could be very witty while trading good-humored banter.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “The Quaker and the Rebel” from NetGalley.com provided by the publishers, Harvest House Publishers, in exchange for our honest review.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
Alexander Hunt is drawn to the “Yankee governess” despite her haughty and prickly ways, not to mention their difference of opinions. But she has her secrets that he hasn’t discovered yet. Come to that Alexander has his won secrets. As the Civil War begins he takes his place in the headlines as the legendary Gray Wraith who has been wreaking havoc on Union forces. As time goes by tensions run high. Can Emily and Alexander learn to trust each other?
Let me start by saying that I like “The Quaker and the Rebel” but there was also much that I didn’t like (e.g. mention of immoral incidents, overly sappy). The two main characters were not exactly agreeable people. They were both irritating – not shallow, just…unlikable. Mr. and Mrs. Bennington were really the only people that seemed to have any sense. Rather than firing their fiery governess they were very understanding of Emily even sheltering her. And speaking of Emily, she does good true but goodness – she’s so ungracious. But there was lots of history and humor. Some of the characters could be very witty while trading good-humored banter.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “The Quaker and the Rebel” from NetGalley.com provided by the publishers, Harvest House Publishers, in exchange for our honest review.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
May 23, 2014
I've read quite a few historical romances over the years but very few can really pull you into the story in such a way that you feel you're actually living each moment of the characters' lives. "The Quaker and the Rebel" by Mary Ellis is just such a novel.
We are reintroduced to Emily Harrison, the plucky protagonist from the prequel short story "Romance on the River," who is now embarking on a whole new life. She is headstrong, determined and very independent for a woman of her status and upbringing and you wouldn't normally expect a woman of her times to be so resourceful. These were the qualities that made me take such a liking to her character. She was also, as all great characters should be, quite flawed as well. She was too impetuous at times, would speak before thinking and tended to see only one side of the picture. But without these failings, she might have come across as a cardboard cutout instead of the extremely delightful and multi-layered character that she was.
Mary Ellis' writing is outstanding and the plot flowed at a great pace, neither lagging nor rushing so fast that you couldn't get a feel for the time and place and immerse yourself into the story. Civil War novels abound, but I would have to say that this one did the most to really get me to think about the day-to-day effects of the war on both sides. Not only the North-South issue, but the slave vs. freedom issues as well. There were many times I thought to myself, "well, I knew that but I never really thought about it in that way before." With the exquisite detail that Mary provides, I felt like I was actually living during those times and felt for myself how things must have really been.
I would definitely recommend this book as one of the finer examples of historical romance, and Civil War romance in particular, and if you're trying to choose among the many offerings out there, you can't go wrong with this one.
We are reintroduced to Emily Harrison, the plucky protagonist from the prequel short story "Romance on the River," who is now embarking on a whole new life. She is headstrong, determined and very independent for a woman of her status and upbringing and you wouldn't normally expect a woman of her times to be so resourceful. These were the qualities that made me take such a liking to her character. She was also, as all great characters should be, quite flawed as well. She was too impetuous at times, would speak before thinking and tended to see only one side of the picture. But without these failings, she might have come across as a cardboard cutout instead of the extremely delightful and multi-layered character that she was.
Mary Ellis' writing is outstanding and the plot flowed at a great pace, neither lagging nor rushing so fast that you couldn't get a feel for the time and place and immerse yourself into the story. Civil War novels abound, but I would have to say that this one did the most to really get me to think about the day-to-day effects of the war on both sides. Not only the North-South issue, but the slave vs. freedom issues as well. There were many times I thought to myself, "well, I knew that but I never really thought about it in that way before." With the exquisite detail that Mary provides, I felt like I was actually living during those times and felt for myself how things must have really been.
I would definitely recommend this book as one of the finer examples of historical romance, and Civil War romance in particular, and if you're trying to choose among the many offerings out there, you can't go wrong with this one.
February 18, 2017
Another Christian fiction series, giving the perspective of life in Civil War times. This particular book was well-written and held my interest from the moment Madeline reprimanded the "soldiers in blue" who had the audacity to trample her flowers because they were more concerned with reading their maps and determining some battle strategies outside her little town west of Gettysburg in 1863!
December 5, 2013
The Quaker and the Rebel by Mary Ellis is the first book in the Civil War Heroines series. I enjoyed this book, and I loved how the author was able to skip over huge sections of time without losing the continuity of the story. She spanned four years in a single book! Pretty impressive. How Emily grows, changes, and matures is one of the best parts of the story. She realizes life isn't as easy to figure out as she thought, and Alexander becomes more firm in his faith.
Emily Harrison, a Quaker, moves from the free state of Ohio to Virginia. Surrounded by excess and the abominable institution of slavery, Emily starts working in the Underground Railroad while working for her Southern employers. But when she meets her employer's nephew, she finds herself confused and torn. How could a slaveholder be so fascinating to her?
Alexander is more than he seems. He serves the Confederacy without his family's knowledge and is known as the Grey Wraith to the Union. He somehow manages to steal supplies and money from the Union soldiers without using weapons or harming anyone. When Alexander meets Emily, he finds himself drawn to her honesty, forthrightness, and her faith. As he begins to question is family's part in slavery, he finds himself falling in love with Emily.
I really enjoyed this story especially how the two main characters grow and change with not only their maturity but their faith in God. I kept wondering how these two very different people would ever be able to get together. Actually, one of the best parts of the book was the banter between Alexander and Emily!
I was given this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Emily Harrison, a Quaker, moves from the free state of Ohio to Virginia. Surrounded by excess and the abominable institution of slavery, Emily starts working in the Underground Railroad while working for her Southern employers. But when she meets her employer's nephew, she finds herself confused and torn. How could a slaveholder be so fascinating to her?
Alexander is more than he seems. He serves the Confederacy without his family's knowledge and is known as the Grey Wraith to the Union. He somehow manages to steal supplies and money from the Union soldiers without using weapons or harming anyone. When Alexander meets Emily, he finds himself drawn to her honesty, forthrightness, and her faith. As he begins to question is family's part in slavery, he finds himself falling in love with Emily.
I really enjoyed this story especially how the two main characters grow and change with not only their maturity but their faith in God. I kept wondering how these two very different people would ever be able to get together. Actually, one of the best parts of the book was the banter between Alexander and Emily!
I was given this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2014
Emily Harrison grew up in Ohio and once her parents died in an accident and the home she lived in was sold in foreclosure she was alone and had to find a way to support herself.. She decides to take a position as a governess with a doctor’s family in Virginia. Her duties are to teach Margaret and Annie manners and their lessons as well.
Being brought up a Quaker she is not used to the drinking, gambling, swearing or other things that go on in fancy houses. What she wants to do is just continue the work her parents did and that was to help slaves thru the Underground Railroad to become free. Danger is right around the corner but she is dedicated to the mission and will not give up.
One afternoon she is introduced to Alexander Hunt the nephew of her employee and she sees a handsome, spoiled rich man. She is not sure exactly what he does or if he is fighting in the war but will uncover a secret about him that nobody knows.
After she learns about his real identity she takes a huge risk in going to warn him about a trap that has been set for him.
These two opposite people have one thing in common to complete their missions and not to give up. Thru many encounters in both the home she is working for and Alexander’s parents home there seems to be a strange attraction beginning with each of them.
An interesting and very enjoyable story.
Being brought up a Quaker she is not used to the drinking, gambling, swearing or other things that go on in fancy houses. What she wants to do is just continue the work her parents did and that was to help slaves thru the Underground Railroad to become free. Danger is right around the corner but she is dedicated to the mission and will not give up.
One afternoon she is introduced to Alexander Hunt the nephew of her employee and she sees a handsome, spoiled rich man. She is not sure exactly what he does or if he is fighting in the war but will uncover a secret about him that nobody knows.
After she learns about his real identity she takes a huge risk in going to warn him about a trap that has been set for him.
These two opposite people have one thing in common to complete their missions and not to give up. Thru many encounters in both the home she is working for and Alexander’s parents home there seems to be a strange attraction beginning with each of them.
An interesting and very enjoyable story.
February 19, 2014
A young Quaker woman, who is loyal to the Union, becomes a governess with a doctor’s family in Virginia. Despite its dangerous nature, she continues to assist in the escape of slaves. Becoming involved with a man who is secretly a famous Confederate soldier is not in her best interest, but they are drawn to each other anyway. Filled with intrigue, twists around every chapter, and nail-biting tension, ‘The Quaker and the Rebel” is a well-rounded book bound to enthrall. Upon doing some research I found that romantic novels seldom ever include Quakers as subject matter; when reflecting on the many similar books that I had read in the past I was shocked to find that this was indeed the case. Therefore, it was refreshing to read a novel that incorporated the less literary explored life of the average Quaker. You will fall in love with the spunky character of Emily Harrison as well as her dashing Gray Wraith, Alexander Hunt, as they tiptoe across serious political and moral issues, such as slavery, as well as cross enemy lines. I recommend this book to anyone with an appetite for adventure and romance. (reviewed by Jael B.)
A complimentary copy was provided by Harvest House Publishers in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.
A complimentary copy was provided by Harvest House Publishers in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.
June 12, 2014
This was an entertaining story featuring a strong, sassy heroine who was easy to like. She was both opinionated and brave, but also could be incredibly self-conscious and awkward, so she felt incredibly human. I liked Alex, too, but he was more of a rake in the beginning and I liked him more as he started to change. He really had fallen away from his faith and I wished there would have been more in the story showing his return and showing Emily's faith as personal rather than being all about being a Quaker. Their arguments were amusing and if ever there was a case of opposites attracting, this was it! I also enjoyed her banter with the maid, Lila. The plot seemed a bit scattered, with her as a governess and then the girls being sent away, and with the household moving quite a bit back and forth. I liked the historical elements woven into the story and it definitely had enough happening to keep my interest. This is my first Mary Ellis book and I believe her first outside of the Amish genre and I'll definitely be looking for the next in the series!
I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2015
What happens when a yankee Quaker and a southern reb get together?
Read the book!
Recently I was introduced to Mary Ellis’ Civil War series with Romance on the River, the prequel to The Quaker and the Rebel… and I was immediately hooked on Civil War romances!
What a shock for me!
Until recently, I had never read a Civil War novel that I had truly enjoyed. I certainly can’t say that now!
This week I discovered that Civil War romances are just as exciting as other genres! …at least those by Mary Ellis. Just read the book.
Mary Ellis blew me away, not only with the young Quaker girl who does whatever she can to help the slaves she meets along the way, but also with the illusive and intriguing Gray Wraith!
Mary’s characters don’t read like simple characters; instead she creates characters that appear like REAL people – with flaws, weaknesses and real, true emotion – good and bad!
If you enjoy reading historical fiction, please don’t miss this wonderful series!
May 8, 2014
I enjoyed this book although at times I felt like I was getting bogged down in history. But the history only led to the richness of the story. I also learned a few things along the way!
Emily and Alexander come from 2 different worlds and both have secrets. Big ones that could threaten all they hold dear. But through it all their unexpected love continues to grow. Although Emily does her best to fight it, for Alexander it is love at first sight. Even when both feel betrayed by the other they cannot deny what is happening between their hearts.
The author does a wonderful job of weaving historical content with a love story. You actually feel like you are right there with them through all the fears and tears. The supporting characters in the book are as developed as the main characters and add fullness to the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance.
Emily and Alexander come from 2 different worlds and both have secrets. Big ones that could threaten all they hold dear. But through it all their unexpected love continues to grow. Although Emily does her best to fight it, for Alexander it is love at first sight. Even when both feel betrayed by the other they cannot deny what is happening between their hearts.
The author does a wonderful job of weaving historical content with a love story. You actually feel like you are right there with them through all the fears and tears. The supporting characters in the book are as developed as the main characters and add fullness to the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance.
January 12, 2014
I liked this story. It's different, not your stereotypical North vs South Civil War romance. The hero is a southern aristocrat and the heroine is a northern farmer's daughter who happens to be an abolitionist to boot. Plenty of drama right there. Toss in the Underground Railroad, a clandestine cavalry unit, some freed slaves and it just gets better.
Historically speaking, it's a little shaky in a couple of areas, but nothing that seriously detracts from the story. It was just enough to make my inner history geek do a quick cringe before I read on.
There are interesting characters in this story, especially some of the secondary characters. I've read other books by Mary Ellis and she always brings in good, strong secondary characters to round out the story. I love that. An easy book to recommend for any age.
Historically speaking, it's a little shaky in a couple of areas, but nothing that seriously detracts from the story. It was just enough to make my inner history geek do a quick cringe before I read on.
There are interesting characters in this story, especially some of the secondary characters. I've read other books by Mary Ellis and she always brings in good, strong secondary characters to round out the story. I love that. An easy book to recommend for any age.
May 15, 2014
This is one of the best Civil War novels I've ever read. I don't usually enjoy Civil War stories much because of the whole brother against brother issue. But this story was entertaining along with the heartbreak. Not only do you have the Quaker religious aversion to war but you mix in the Underground Railroad for the North and capturing of supplies and horses, etc for the South. Emily has fallen for Alexander but can't admit it. Alexander has fallen for Emily and though it's quite a surprise to him, he shows and tells her. But while he is out leading the rangers and she is off moving slaves out of sight, there are those who will not stand for such actions.
I really enjoyed this story and how well played out and written it was. A true page turner.
I really enjoyed this story and how well played out and written it was. A true page turner.
December 2, 2013
I had the privilege of reading Mary Ellis’ first book in her Civil War historical romance series, The Quaker and the Rebel. I fell in love with Ms. Ellis’ style through her many Amish series, and her ability to interweave God’s truth through believable characters and a grabbing storyline. She uses that same gift and crafts the beginning of another great series, this time set in the Civil War period of American history. I love how she creates strong characters, both men and women, people I would love to meet and join their community. I’m looking forward to her next book and getting to continue the adventure with another woman’s story from American history.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews