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Love at First Light
In 1868 Nebraska, as part of the Ladies Cemetery Improvement Society, a well-to-do young woman who feels unlovable encounters a disfigured warrior who has given up hoping for anything beyond a life in the shadows.
When their unusual connection blossoms into love, Isobel and Gideon are faced with the challenge of their lives.
After being jilted at the altar, can Isobel ever trust another man?
After being vilified and avoided, can Gideon ever let Isobel actually see his face?
When their unusual connection blossoms into love, Isobel and Gideon are faced with the challenge of their lives.
After being jilted at the altar, can Isobel ever trust another man?
After being vilified and avoided, can Gideon ever let Isobel actually see his face?
464 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 3, 2023
77 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Grace Whitson
56 books341 followersA native of southern Illinois, Stephanie Grace Whitson has lived in Nebraska since 1975. She began what she calls "playing with imaginary friends" (writing fiction) when, as a result of teaching her four homeschooled children Nebraska history, she was personally encouraged and challenged by the lives of pioneer women in the West. Since her first book, Walks the Fire, was published in 1995, Stephanie's fiction titles have appeared on the ECPA bestseller list numerous times and been finalists for the Christy Award, the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and ForeWord Magazine's Book of the Year. Her first nonfiction work, How to Help a Grieving Friend, was released in 2005. In addition to serving in her local church and keeping up with two married children, two college students, and a high school senior, Stephanie enjoys motorcycle trips with her family and church friends. Her passionate interests in pioneer women's history, antique quilts, and French, Italian, and Hawaiian language and culture provide endless story-telling possibilities.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 24, 2023
"Today was not the day to brave the light. Hunkering down, he slung the burlap bag over his shoulder. The meat would keep sunk into the pit behind the house where a cold spring bubbled up from the earth. As for the list of things he needed - he'd simply have to go without. It wasn't as if he didn't know how to do that."
Gideon once was a part of a community. But the Civil War has changed all of that. Now he lives in the shadows. Isobel thought her path was set until her plans fell apart. Starting over sounds ideal, so she travels to live with her brother in the newly formed town of Nebraska City. Trouble is that Charlie has troubles of his own and is not ready to help out his sister. Can these characters find a way to step out of darkness and into His marvelous light?
The characters are all flawed and relatable. Wanting to hide away from sorrow is not a new concept. How they all move forward is woven beautifully into the plot points. I liked the fact that all three of their stories were woven together along with several other important minor characters.
This book takes place in early Nebraska. The town of Nebraska City is one of the area's first towns. Because this is a known location, I appreciated the author's meticulous research that she did before writing this work of fiction. This is demonstrated in the "works cited" list found at the end of the beginning. Not all authors pay attention to such details.
Set soon after the end of the Civil War, this timing definitely impacts so many aspects of the book. Women are wanting to honor those who fought, so the cemetery is an important location. The GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) organization was key in the early days of town. All had been affected by loss and grief. Part of this story reflects on how one can move on in a meaningful way.
Because I am a Nebraska non-fiction writer, I was asked to read through the book for accuracy. Since I was involved in the later edits, this made me fully invested in this story. From the first time I read it, I loved it. After going through it a few times, I love it even more. So much redemption. So much hope despite the despair of loss. Picking my favorite part is impossible. But I do know that I highly recommend this book!
Gideon once was a part of a community. But the Civil War has changed all of that. Now he lives in the shadows. Isobel thought her path was set until her plans fell apart. Starting over sounds ideal, so she travels to live with her brother in the newly formed town of Nebraska City. Trouble is that Charlie has troubles of his own and is not ready to help out his sister. Can these characters find a way to step out of darkness and into His marvelous light?
The characters are all flawed and relatable. Wanting to hide away from sorrow is not a new concept. How they all move forward is woven beautifully into the plot points. I liked the fact that all three of their stories were woven together along with several other important minor characters.
This book takes place in early Nebraska. The town of Nebraska City is one of the area's first towns. Because this is a known location, I appreciated the author's meticulous research that she did before writing this work of fiction. This is demonstrated in the "works cited" list found at the end of the beginning. Not all authors pay attention to such details.
Set soon after the end of the Civil War, this timing definitely impacts so many aspects of the book. Women are wanting to honor those who fought, so the cemetery is an important location. The GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) organization was key in the early days of town. All had been affected by loss and grief. Part of this story reflects on how one can move on in a meaningful way.
Because I am a Nebraska non-fiction writer, I was asked to read through the book for accuracy. Since I was involved in the later edits, this made me fully invested in this story. From the first time I read it, I loved it. After going through it a few times, I love it even more. So much redemption. So much hope despite the despair of loss. Picking my favorite part is impossible. But I do know that I highly recommend this book!
October 16, 2023
Понякога някоя книга ни води на най - необичайното място, за да ни покаже теми за размисъл. В Love at First Light активното общество в малък град на запад се е заело да опази и облагороди гробището. Няколко години след края на гражданската война в САЩ почти всяко семейство скърби за загинал близък в битки. Освен това последния дом на някои от първите заселници напомнят за силата на духа и на мечтите. Колко често някой е срещал темата за поддържането на гробището, за да се съхрани обществената памет, да се отдаде уважение на предците и да се честват героите в специален ден?
Бях привлечена от всеки един образ. Особено от обезобразения Гидиън, завърнал се от бойното поле с медал за храброст, но предпочел да се крие в гората и да се движи нощем заради грозните белези по лицето си, каращи мнозина да се извръщат . А Изобел, получила достатъчно обиди и пренебрежение от мащехата си, знае, че раните ( физически или емоционални ) оставят следи и е по - добре бъде щедър, мил и енергичен човек, отколкото да се отдаде на униние. Онова, което свързва един отчаян отшелник с една млада и великодушна красавица са отговорите на безбройните въпроси, които всяка объркана душа търси през целия си живот.
В онези времена религията е била, ( а като гледам как стоят нещата сега ), и все още е могъща сила. За утеха за някои и за оправдание на други. В книгите, обърнати към вярването като пречистваща сила , има много разсъждения на героите относно християнския им дълг. Колкото повече изпитания и трудности среща някой, толкова повече се нуждае от подкрепа - емоционална и материална. Не винаги религиозните четения от анвона дават точните указания. Героите се съмняват, лутат, търсят. Някои виждат повод да се съмняват. Други биват насърчавани да дадат повече от себе си. Да са по - състрадателни, помагащи и още по - ... вярващи. И всичко е за добро. Докато в началото на една от главите в Love at First Light прочетох цитат от Причините в Библията: " Уповавай на Господа с цялото си сърце; и не се облягай на собствения си разум. "
* " Отложената надежда разболява сърцето. "
Бях привлечена от всеки един образ. Особено от обезобразения Гидиън, завърнал се от бойното поле с медал за храброст, но предпочел да се крие в гората и да се движи нощем заради грозните белези по лицето си, каращи мнозина да се извръщат . А Изобел, получила достатъчно обиди и пренебрежение от мащехата си, знае, че раните ( физически или емоционални ) оставят следи и е по - добре бъде щедър, мил и енергичен човек, отколкото да се отдаде на униние. Онова, което свързва един отчаян отшелник с една млада и великодушна красавица са отговорите на безбройните въпроси, които всяка объркана душа търси през целия си живот.
В онези времена религията е била, ( а като гледам как стоят нещата сега ), и все още е могъща сила. За утеха за някои и за оправдание на други. В книгите, обърнати към вярването като пречистваща сила , има много разсъждения на героите относно християнския им дълг. Колкото повече изпитания и трудности среща някой, толкова повече се нуждае от подкрепа - емоционална и материална. Не винаги религиозните четения от анвона дават точните указания. Героите се съмняват, лутат, търсят. Някои виждат повод да се съмняват. Други биват насърчавани да дадат повече от себе си. Да са по - състрадателни, помагащи и още по - ... вярващи. И всичко е за добро. Докато в началото на една от главите в Love at First Light прочетох цитат от Причините в Библията: " Уповавай на Господа с цялото си сърце; и не се облягай на собствения си разум. "
* " Отложената надежда разболява сърцето. "
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January 10, 2024Writing was pretty good, story was more Christian historical then Romance
August 7, 2023
This is a beautiful story which is set in Nebraska in the 1860's and is a story of challenges, rejection, betrayal and romance. The author has included some very interesting historical facts but they do not, in any way, overpower the story and weigh it down. This is Isobel and Gideon's story and the character development is outstanding. As the story takes place you will meet some very interesting people and some not so interesting and likeable. Gideon suffers from some disfigurement which has caused ridicule and he has withdrawn and become a recluse. Isobel is suffering from the rejection of her groom to be at the altar and feels that she is unworthy and unlovable. When the couple meet under unusual circumstances, feelings begin to blossom but can either one of them let go of their past hurts and rejection and learn to trust each other and find a HEA? Be sure and read this outstanding story to find out; it is a real page turner and I know you will enjoy it as much as I did.
August 21, 2023
I read several novels written by Stephanie Grace Whitson years ago. I decided to try her newest, Love at First Light. I usually dismiss any book with love in the title because most romances are just too much fluff, and I like romance only if built on a compelling story and the development of character. The cover was a draw for me, I enjoy historic cemeteries. Well this book was fabulous. It certainly had a romance, but it was built on all the right foundations. I enjoyed each of her characters.
I suppose I gag at many stories where the heroine is the most beautiful woman ever, and the guy she falls for is dashingly handsome. I like stories where someone falls for the person because of who they are, not appearance based love. Stephanie knocked it out of the ballpark for me, as far as character development.
I also appreciate her historical aspect of this 1860’s Nebraska setting. Stephanie wrote in a manner few writers can accomplish, and that is including the gospel in a way that flowed from the story naturally, and not forced or preachy. It was beautiful. The story was inspirational, mysterious, historical and yes romantic. This was Whitson’s best writing yet. I would give it a 10 if allowed.
I do not want to spoil the story by telling too much, but this book is just perfect and you will not be disappointed if you love, romance, inspirational, historical and mystery blended together with skill. My hat is off to Stephanie Grace Whitson!
I suppose I gag at many stories where the heroine is the most beautiful woman ever, and the guy she falls for is dashingly handsome. I like stories where someone falls for the person because of who they are, not appearance based love. Stephanie knocked it out of the ballpark for me, as far as character development.
I also appreciate her historical aspect of this 1860’s Nebraska setting. Stephanie wrote in a manner few writers can accomplish, and that is including the gospel in a way that flowed from the story naturally, and not forced or preachy. It was beautiful. The story was inspirational, mysterious, historical and yes romantic. This was Whitson’s best writing yet. I would give it a 10 if allowed.
I do not want to spoil the story by telling too much, but this book is just perfect and you will not be disappointed if you love, romance, inspirational, historical and mystery blended together with skill. My hat is off to Stephanie Grace Whitson!
November 2, 2023
Quite The Journey Into The Light
I loved this book for so many reasons. The usual ones that make a great book great. But underneath all of that the underpinnings about Christ, the appropriate use of scripture, the Spirit driven message was so worth the journey to the end. Stephanie Grace Whitson is truly a gifted author and storyteller . This was a difficult subject and I wasn’t sure I could complete this book but as I have finished I realize that my life’s day to day experiences will be that much richer. My favorite life time scripture is Psalms 46:10….” Be still and know that I am God.” Flowed through so clearly how we are His work and glory and our trials and challenges do make us worthy. Choosing Jesus Christ as our Eternal Savior does determine our joy. In this live and in the next. Keep writing, we need this now more than ever.
I loved this book for so many reasons. The usual ones that make a great book great. But underneath all of that the underpinnings about Christ, the appropriate use of scripture, the Spirit driven message was so worth the journey to the end. Stephanie Grace Whitson is truly a gifted author and storyteller . This was a difficult subject and I wasn’t sure I could complete this book but as I have finished I realize that my life’s day to day experiences will be that much richer. My favorite life time scripture is Psalms 46:10….” Be still and know that I am God.” Flowed through so clearly how we are His work and glory and our trials and challenges do make us worthy. Choosing Jesus Christ as our Eternal Savior does determine our joy. In this live and in the next. Keep writing, we need this now more than ever.
October 7, 2023
First Light Explores Courage
This is the first book I've ever read from this author. All the main characters and sub characters show tremendous courage in the face of tragedy. Overcoming adversities with much grace and by leaning into the word. I loved how the author wove this story together with compassion, gentleness, and dignity. The title, however is a misnomer, because I mistakenly thought it would be a romance. Oh it has light romance but that part is only hinted at the end of the book. The title should've been something like "Stepping Into the Light" This Book is more of a journey and the courage each character makes to step into the light, fulfilling their quest for hope and their quest for courage.
This is the first book I've ever read from this author. All the main characters and sub characters show tremendous courage in the face of tragedy. Overcoming adversities with much grace and by leaning into the word. I loved how the author wove this story together with compassion, gentleness, and dignity. The title, however is a misnomer, because I mistakenly thought it would be a romance. Oh it has light romance but that part is only hinted at the end of the book. The title should've been something like "Stepping Into the Light" This Book is more of a journey and the courage each character makes to step into the light, fulfilling their quest for hope and their quest for courage.
July 21, 2024
A BEAUTIFUL AND VERY INSPIRATIONAL STORY!!!
I Just finished reading this AMAZING AND WONDERFUL BOOK, and it left me with tears of happiness flowing from my eyes!! Once again this Wonderful Author, Stephanie Grace White on has given me another very inspirational story with amazing characters and such a beautiful message of love and hope!!!! I loved this story and I highly recommend it to everyone!!! It's truly a beautiful message, within a great story!! Thank You Again Stephanie Grace Whitson!!! Your books are such a joy to read!!!
I Just finished reading this AMAZING AND WONDERFUL BOOK, and it left me with tears of happiness flowing from my eyes!! Once again this Wonderful Author, Stephanie Grace White on has given me another very inspirational story with amazing characters and such a beautiful message of love and hope!!!! I loved this story and I highly recommend it to everyone!!! It's truly a beautiful message, within a great story!! Thank You Again Stephanie Grace Whitson!!! Your books are such a joy to read!!!
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March 25, 2024When Isobel is jilted, she escapes St. Louis to visit her brother in the new state of Nebraska.
The author showed early Nebraska City: those just passing through as well as those staying to build a community. The Civil War has been over only a few years and echoes of its impact are still felt. I especially liked how Gideon's questions for God led to Isobel accepting Christ. Don't be afraid to ask - God draws us close when we do!
The author showed early Nebraska City: those just passing through as well as those staying to build a community. The Civil War has been over only a few years and echoes of its impact are still felt. I especially liked how Gideon's questions for God led to Isobel accepting Christ. Don't be afraid to ask - God draws us close when we do!
September 6, 2023
A wonderful book!!
This is one of the best books i have ever read! It is so inspiring. I didn't want it to end. The author did an exceptional job of portraying each character and their individual stories. I hope to read another book by this author as soon as possible. I have read her books before but this one is the best so far!!
This is one of the best books i have ever read! It is so inspiring. I didn't want it to end. The author did an exceptional job of portraying each character and their individual stories. I hope to read another book by this author as soon as possible. I have read her books before but this one is the best so far!!
October 31, 2023
A lovely faith based historical fiction. I live in Nebraska so Whitson's stories always give me some historical knowledge about my state. This story centers around a wounded soldier and a "city" girl, from St. Louis, coming west to Nebraska City after being jilted at the alter, and visiting her brother. It's a great story of community, faith and love.
December 31, 2024
This was my first book by the author. Really enjoyed getting to know all of the townspeople except Mrs. Bishop hahahaha I liked Isabel's tenacity & her party to faith. I also liked Charlie's path to healing. You can't help but love Gideon and feel bad for his seclusion. Also, loved his dog, Trouble. Ha!
August 9, 2023
A powerful story about post-Civil War life in Nebraska, pioneers, etc., along with characters who lose hope, lose loved ones, lose themselves, but also love and trust and seek for God. I really enjoyed it.
August 27, 2023
Isobel is stood up at the altar. Reputation ruined. Seeking out her brother to help her, she finds him caught in addiction to escape the pain of his losses. Upon reuniting, God brings about change in each of their hearts, of hope and healing.
A mysterious rescuer saves her, but keeps himself hidden - facing a past and scars of his own, but eventually he discovers peace and fulfillment in the calling God has given him.
I think I was surprised how long it took Isabel to meet her rescuer, but as they exchange notes they get to know each other and provides a foundation for their relationship.
5 stars! I highly recommend.
A mysterious rescuer saves her, but keeps himself hidden - facing a past and scars of his own, but eventually he discovers peace and fulfillment in the calling God has given him.
I think I was surprised how long it took Isabel to meet her rescuer, but as they exchange notes they get to know each other and provides a foundation for their relationship.
5 stars! I highly recommend.
August 23, 2023
Absolutely spellbinding..
Beautiful story highlighting God and those that found him. Gabriel was so believable that it had me praying for him to step out into the light again. This book was awesome, I didn't want it to end.
Beautiful story highlighting God and those that found him. Gabriel was so believable that it had me praying for him to step out into the light again. This book was awesome, I didn't want it to end.
October 11, 2023
This is a powerful historical fiction set after the Civil War in Nebraska. Strong themes of redemption and forgiveness along with real and likable characters make this a story I didn’t want to end.
November 3, 2023
Inspiring story
I loved the journey taken to faith, hope, and courage by multiple characters. The characters are relatable. Everyone is dealing with something and I feel like this book would be encouraging for anyone to read.
I loved the journey taken to faith, hope, and courage by multiple characters. The characters are relatable. Everyone is dealing with something and I feel like this book would be encouraging for anyone to read.
December 1, 2023
Ok…
The story seemed to drag along with no real line of interest. I understood the point and meaning of the story but it drug on and on and had a very abrupt and very blah ending. Im sorry, I usually like this author, but this book just wasn’t up to par.
The story seemed to drag along with no real line of interest. I understood the point and meaning of the story but it drug on and on and had a very abrupt and very blah ending. Im sorry, I usually like this author, but this book just wasn’t up to par.
June 2, 2024
Beautiful read
Such a special story of forgiveness and true love. We never know God’s plan for our lives and sometimes we have prayers answered in a way we never knew. Great story and characters to show how God is always with us no matter the circumstances.
Such a special story of forgiveness and true love. We never know God’s plan for our lives and sometimes we have prayers answered in a way we never knew. Great story and characters to show how God is always with us no matter the circumstances.
August 4, 2023
Whitson is at the top of her game. This story is award-worthy, God-honoring, and gave me shivers or made me cry. Love at First Light is the best Nebraska historical I’ve ever read!
August 12, 2023
Love at First Sight
A sweet read, intriguing plot and well rounded characters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and discovering how it unfolded.
A sweet read, intriguing plot and well rounded characters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and discovering how it unfolded.
September 8, 2023
Great book!
Stephanie Whitson has been one of my very favorite authors for years! This book was wonderful! I hope there will be more like it.
Stephanie Whitson has been one of my very favorite authors for years! This book was wonderful! I hope there will be more like it.
September 17, 2023
wonderful!!
A great story! I love reading books set in Nebraska! I can hardly wait to read more by Stephanie! Great read!
A great story! I love reading books set in Nebraska! I can hardly wait to read more by Stephanie! Great read!
September 18, 2023
What a beautiful story. I loved it.
September 18, 2023
Sorry to see this end!!!
Great story. Hated to see it end. Just a great read. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
Great story. Hated to see it end. Just a great read. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
October 23, 2023
Love at First Light
I loved the story of Gideon, Isabel, Charlie, & Jennie. They’re growth & development was inspiring & challenging as well.
I loved the story of Gideon, Isabel, Charlie, & Jennie. They’re growth & development was inspiring & challenging as well.
November 7, 2023
Beautiful story.
I Loved the spiritual applications. It’s Beautifully written. The story kept me turning pages and wondering when the great reveal would come.
I Loved the spiritual applications. It’s Beautifully written. The story kept me turning pages and wondering when the great reveal would come.
November 7, 2023
thank you
Thank you for sharing this amazing story. You have combined history with romance and the glorious gospel. It was a great book that I was sorry to see end.
Thank you for sharing this amazing story. You have combined history with romance and the glorious gospel. It was a great book that I was sorry to see end.
February 2, 2024
Five star for sure. I would give it more if I could. Everything one should want in a Christian Fiction novel. I could not put it down. A hankie might also be required when reading this book.
March 6, 2024
I really loved this book
Was almost like a beauty and beast type of book .Was extra special because
my nickname is Birdie. Like Birdie Tanner in this book. Smiled all the way to the end.❤⚘❤⚘
Was almost like a beauty and beast type of book .Was extra special because
my nickname is Birdie. Like Birdie Tanner in this book. Smiled all the way to the end.❤⚘❤⚘
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews