What do you think?
Rate this book
Civil War Heroines #2
The Lady and the Officer
Bestselling author Mary Ellis (A Widow's Hope) presents The Lady and the Officer, Book 2 of her new Civil War historical romance series, which tells the stories of brave women and the men who love them.
Serving for a brief time as a nurse after the devastating battle of Gettysburg, Madeline Howard saves the life of Elliot Haywood, a colonel in the Confederate Home Guard. But even though Maddy makes her home in the South, her heart and political sympathies belong to General James Downing, a soldier from the North.
However, Colonel Haywood has never forgotten the beautiful nurse, and when he unexpectedly meets her again in Richmond, he is determined to win her. But while rubbing elbows with army officers and cavalry generals and war department officials in her aunt and uncle's palatial home, Maddy overhears plans for a Confederate attack in northern Virginia. She knows passing along this information may save the life of her beloved James, but at what cost? Can she really betray the trust of her family and friends?
Maddy's heart is pulled between wanting to be loyal to those who care for her and wanting to help the man she believes is on the right side of the conflict. Two men love her. Will her faith in God show her the way to a bright future, or will her choices bring a devastation of their own?
Serving for a brief time as a nurse after the devastating battle of Gettysburg, Madeline Howard saves the life of Elliot Haywood, a colonel in the Confederate Home Guard. But even though Maddy makes her home in the South, her heart and political sympathies belong to General James Downing, a soldier from the North.
However, Colonel Haywood has never forgotten the beautiful nurse, and when he unexpectedly meets her again in Richmond, he is determined to win her. But while rubbing elbows with army officers and cavalry generals and war department officials in her aunt and uncle's palatial home, Maddy overhears plans for a Confederate attack in northern Virginia. She knows passing along this information may save the life of her beloved James, but at what cost? Can she really betray the trust of her family and friends?
Maddy's heart is pulled between wanting to be loyal to those who care for her and wanting to help the man she believes is on the right side of the conflict. Two men love her. Will her faith in God show her the way to a bright future, or will her choices bring a devastation of their own?
352 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2014
22 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Mary Ellis
36 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 48 reviews
March 27, 2015
After her home and livelihood are destroyed in the aftermath of the battle of Gettysburg, widow Madeline Howard has limited choices available. She finds herself alone in the world with the exception of her Aunt Clarissa; her mother’s sister and her family live across enemy lines in Richmond, the capitol of the Confederacy. Despite her distaste for slavery and a newly formed attachment to General James Downing, Madeline obtains permission to cross battle lines and relocates to live with her only remaining family.
Madeline is shocked by the differences between Yankee culture and decidedly Southern society. Her lifestyle in Cashtown necessitated seeing to the household chores of cooking, cleaning, gardening and even running a horse breeding business after her husband’s death in one of the opening battles of the Civil War. In contrast, her Aunt Clarissa oversees a household of servants who do all of these things for the family. Madeline chafes under the enforced idleness of polite Southern womanhood and the ensuing culture clash provides beneficial growth and understanding in all members of the extended family.
Madeline begins the story as an impetuous woman who gives little thought to her decisions and their consequences until after the fact. At one point in the novel, she laments how her aunt treats her almost as if an older sibling to her cousin rather than a matron accustomed to managing her own life. She acknowledges how easy it is to fall into that role, and we see her do so repeatedly in both attitude and action. Her immaturity often made it difficult to like this character, especially when her rash choices led to difficulty for others because of her inability to foresee logical consequences.
Madeline’s motivations remain a mystery for much of the novel, though we do get some insight into them towards the end. I would have preferred to know more as we went along, however; some things began to make sense as crucial thought processes were finally revealed. I would have spent far less time being frustrated with her seemingly endless indecision and the resulting consequences with a proper lens to view her. Even so, by the end of the novel I was disappointed that there was almost no growth in her character.
Regrettably, I found the romance between Madeline and James to be stilted and a bit forced. We are told that Madeline and James are in love, but there was no real buildup to it or demonstration of it. They meet when his men trample her flowers and she scolds them; he asks his men to move, and suddenly they cannot stop thinking about each other? It seemed artificial and affected. Perhaps a better place to begin the novel would have been with her move to Richmond; we could then have gradually learned about the man she loved but heartbreakingly left behind rather than trying to condense their romance into those first chapters before her relocation.
One thing this book does do exceedingly well is portray the toll that the Civil War took on the people involved. The battlefields where civilians look among corpses for loved ones, comforting men in hospitals as they await inevitable death, the subdued celebrations out of deference to those who had lost family members, and the divisions between friends and even families all combine to paint a poignant picture of a nation torn apart. We watch as characters mourn, get frustrated, and even find themselves seduced by the hatred that accompanies war’s fatigue.
Towards the end of the novel, there is also a theme of forgiveness and sacrifice for the undeserving. It is touching to watch these characters, betrayed by one intimately trusted, extend love and mercy to the repentant person, even when it costs them dearly to do so. Though the parallel is never explicitly drawn, the subtle thread of God’s forgiveness of man was beautifully written and flowed nicely from the novel’s conflict, culminating in a satisfying ending of grace and reconciliation.
While I had multiple complaints about this novel, the overarching concepts of forgiveness and reconciliation were well written and the horrors of war were demonstrated without being graphic at any point. A more sympathetic heroine, or one who grew into that role, would have aided in my enjoyment of the story, but the secondary characters kept this novel moving and the spiritual truth made it a worthwhile read.
This review originally appeared at The Christian Manifesto. (http://thechristianmanifesto.com/fict...)
Madeline is shocked by the differences between Yankee culture and decidedly Southern society. Her lifestyle in Cashtown necessitated seeing to the household chores of cooking, cleaning, gardening and even running a horse breeding business after her husband’s death in one of the opening battles of the Civil War. In contrast, her Aunt Clarissa oversees a household of servants who do all of these things for the family. Madeline chafes under the enforced idleness of polite Southern womanhood and the ensuing culture clash provides beneficial growth and understanding in all members of the extended family.
Madeline begins the story as an impetuous woman who gives little thought to her decisions and their consequences until after the fact. At one point in the novel, she laments how her aunt treats her almost as if an older sibling to her cousin rather than a matron accustomed to managing her own life. She acknowledges how easy it is to fall into that role, and we see her do so repeatedly in both attitude and action. Her immaturity often made it difficult to like this character, especially when her rash choices led to difficulty for others because of her inability to foresee logical consequences.
Madeline’s motivations remain a mystery for much of the novel, though we do get some insight into them towards the end. I would have preferred to know more as we went along, however; some things began to make sense as crucial thought processes were finally revealed. I would have spent far less time being frustrated with her seemingly endless indecision and the resulting consequences with a proper lens to view her. Even so, by the end of the novel I was disappointed that there was almost no growth in her character.
Regrettably, I found the romance between Madeline and James to be stilted and a bit forced. We are told that Madeline and James are in love, but there was no real buildup to it or demonstration of it. They meet when his men trample her flowers and she scolds them; he asks his men to move, and suddenly they cannot stop thinking about each other? It seemed artificial and affected. Perhaps a better place to begin the novel would have been with her move to Richmond; we could then have gradually learned about the man she loved but heartbreakingly left behind rather than trying to condense their romance into those first chapters before her relocation.
One thing this book does do exceedingly well is portray the toll that the Civil War took on the people involved. The battlefields where civilians look among corpses for loved ones, comforting men in hospitals as they await inevitable death, the subdued celebrations out of deference to those who had lost family members, and the divisions between friends and even families all combine to paint a poignant picture of a nation torn apart. We watch as characters mourn, get frustrated, and even find themselves seduced by the hatred that accompanies war’s fatigue.
Towards the end of the novel, there is also a theme of forgiveness and sacrifice for the undeserving. It is touching to watch these characters, betrayed by one intimately trusted, extend love and mercy to the repentant person, even when it costs them dearly to do so. Though the parallel is never explicitly drawn, the subtle thread of God’s forgiveness of man was beautifully written and flowed nicely from the novel’s conflict, culminating in a satisfying ending of grace and reconciliation.
While I had multiple complaints about this novel, the overarching concepts of forgiveness and reconciliation were well written and the horrors of war were demonstrated without being graphic at any point. A more sympathetic heroine, or one who grew into that role, would have aided in my enjoyment of the story, but the secondary characters kept this novel moving and the spiritual truth made it a worthwhile read.
This review originally appeared at The Christian Manifesto. (http://thechristianmanifesto.com/fict...)
July 28, 2014
I had the privilege of reading The Lady and the Officer by Mary Ellis, the second in her Civil War Heroine Series. I hate to admit that I’m not great retaining the history I learned in school, but you don’t have to know everything about the Civil War in order to truly appreciate this series. These books have left a lasting impression on me. Ms. Ellis does a great job describing through dialogue between characters how no one wins in the war - no matter which side is victorious. She is wonderful at showing how it affected everyone equally, no matter which side you were fighting for and whether you were on the front lines or tucked away in a small town.
Even though my personality is opposite that of Madeline, I was able to relate to her from the beginning and found her strength to be admirable. I totally fell in love with Aunt Clarisa, Uncle John, and Eugenia, not to mention Micah and Esther. True to Ms. Ellis’ character, she creates men that are worthy of respect, choose the better road, and remind me of my husband because of their integrity, treatment of women, and family values. I had a hard time figuring out which suitor to root for to win Madeline’s heart: Colonel Haywood or General Downing. I truly loved them both. They both possessed qualities which made them attractive and a great fit for any woman.
This book, though, was much more than merely a romance. It told a deeper story. And it made me question what I would’ve done had I been in Madeline’s shoes. Would I have chosen to help the Union while living under the roof of Confederates or would I have sought safety in a Union state, worrying about those I loved? Ms. Ellis showed so vividly that when war is involved, there really is no “black and white.” The lines are blurred and the “bad guys” aren’t necessarily bad - they are just motivated by love of country, love of Christian values (abolition of slavery) and love of family. That is a question that thankfully many of us don’t have to answer in such a harsh way but still…this book raised it and made me think. Ms. Ellis described the atmosphere surrounding the war so beautifully - I could feel the hunger as the women rationed their food, allowing the men to eat their fill so they would remain healthy and able to fight, I could feel Eugenia’s loneliness as parties, friends, and suitable callers were scarce during this devastating time, I could smell the stench of the hospital as men lay dying from disease and infection. and I could see the captives in the prison and feel their pain of separation from those they love, across enemy lines. I could even feel the hatred from the few in the book who held contempt for others and had become hardened in the war, whatever their personal reasons.
I think my ultimate favorite part of the book was the scene when Madeline finally reached the man she loved. Without giving anything away, the integrity and selfless sacrifice of one man to the other was moving…Ms. Ellis wrote in such a way that I will forever have that beautiful memory in my head.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. History is coming to life for me and allowing me to think deeper about a time in America’s past that shouldn’t be forgotten. Thank you, Ms. Ellis, for your beautiful words and bringing a time period in America’s history to life for me.
Even though my personality is opposite that of Madeline, I was able to relate to her from the beginning and found her strength to be admirable. I totally fell in love with Aunt Clarisa, Uncle John, and Eugenia, not to mention Micah and Esther. True to Ms. Ellis’ character, she creates men that are worthy of respect, choose the better road, and remind me of my husband because of their integrity, treatment of women, and family values. I had a hard time figuring out which suitor to root for to win Madeline’s heart: Colonel Haywood or General Downing. I truly loved them both. They both possessed qualities which made them attractive and a great fit for any woman.
This book, though, was much more than merely a romance. It told a deeper story. And it made me question what I would’ve done had I been in Madeline’s shoes. Would I have chosen to help the Union while living under the roof of Confederates or would I have sought safety in a Union state, worrying about those I loved? Ms. Ellis showed so vividly that when war is involved, there really is no “black and white.” The lines are blurred and the “bad guys” aren’t necessarily bad - they are just motivated by love of country, love of Christian values (abolition of slavery) and love of family. That is a question that thankfully many of us don’t have to answer in such a harsh way but still…this book raised it and made me think. Ms. Ellis described the atmosphere surrounding the war so beautifully - I could feel the hunger as the women rationed their food, allowing the men to eat their fill so they would remain healthy and able to fight, I could feel Eugenia’s loneliness as parties, friends, and suitable callers were scarce during this devastating time, I could smell the stench of the hospital as men lay dying from disease and infection. and I could see the captives in the prison and feel their pain of separation from those they love, across enemy lines. I could even feel the hatred from the few in the book who held contempt for others and had become hardened in the war, whatever their personal reasons.
I think my ultimate favorite part of the book was the scene when Madeline finally reached the man she loved. Without giving anything away, the integrity and selfless sacrifice of one man to the other was moving…Ms. Ellis wrote in such a way that I will forever have that beautiful memory in my head.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. History is coming to life for me and allowing me to think deeper about a time in America’s past that shouldn’t be forgotten. Thank you, Ms. Ellis, for your beautiful words and bringing a time period in America’s history to life for me.
September 10, 2016
The Lady And The Officer is historical fiction set in the lean and perilous final years of the War Between the States. Madeline Howard is a young widow of a Union soldier. Her husband, a horse breeder when they married, had answered the call of his country and was killed in the First Battle of Manassas. Madeline tries to continue her husband Tobias' work, but it is difficult to do alone.
The war has come to her Pennsylvania community and Rebel soldiers have already stripped her crops from her fields and orchard. When Union officers stop in her yard, still on horseback, she exasperatedly asks that they quit trampling her flowers. They are not inclined to respect her private property rights, that is, until General James Dowling takes note and directs his men to return to the road. But his attention and good manners strike Mrs. Howard as presumptuous and she retreats inside her house.
It is not long though before Madeline needs help again, and she rides to the general's headquarters to request his assistance. His respect and admiration for her grows, even as she decides she can no longer survive alone, deciding she must move South to Richmond, Virginia, where her only living relatives can offer her shelter. The young widow and the 38 year old general have developed an unspoken bond, even as they must separate. Madeline remains a Northerner in her heart and mind, but is torn because of the love and respect she feels for her Southern protectors. To make matters more tense, one of the Southern officers stationed in Richmond is clearly smitten with her.
Madeline's faith and spiritual life offer her strength during difficult times, even as she struggles with what God would have her do in the midst of these desperate times. Is she justified in trying to get secret strategic information into Northern hands? Will her willingness to help the Northern cause bring disaster on her beloved Southern family?
The war has come to her Pennsylvania community and Rebel soldiers have already stripped her crops from her fields and orchard. When Union officers stop in her yard, still on horseback, she exasperatedly asks that they quit trampling her flowers. They are not inclined to respect her private property rights, that is, until General James Dowling takes note and directs his men to return to the road. But his attention and good manners strike Mrs. Howard as presumptuous and she retreats inside her house.
It is not long though before Madeline needs help again, and she rides to the general's headquarters to request his assistance. His respect and admiration for her grows, even as she decides she can no longer survive alone, deciding she must move South to Richmond, Virginia, where her only living relatives can offer her shelter. The young widow and the 38 year old general have developed an unspoken bond, even as they must separate. Madeline remains a Northerner in her heart and mind, but is torn because of the love and respect she feels for her Southern protectors. To make matters more tense, one of the Southern officers stationed in Richmond is clearly smitten with her.
Madeline's faith and spiritual life offer her strength during difficult times, even as she struggles with what God would have her do in the midst of these desperate times. Is she justified in trying to get secret strategic information into Northern hands? Will her willingness to help the Northern cause bring disaster on her beloved Southern family?
August 25, 2015
The Lady and The Officer,***** Civil War Heroines Series, book 2 by Mary Ellis
Madeline Howard loved her peaceful home in Cashtown, Pennsylvania, but the battle in Gettysburg shattered that peacefulness—and her home, forever. Now she must make her way to her Aunt Clarisa and Uncle John Duncan's home in Richmond, VA—even though her heart remains in Pennsylvania and with General James Downing of the Union Army. At her aunt's home she soon meets Colonel Elliott Hayward of the Confederate Army. Elliot is falls in love with Madeline, but he learns her heart belongs to another. One day Madeline accidentally overhears a discussion regarding the Confederate's plans for the Union Army, giving her the perfect opportunity to “spy” and pass along this important information. But Madeline is torn, she wants to save James and put an end to the war quickly but how can she betray her beloved family and Elliott, who is now a friend? How does one go about spying when they have always been an honest, godly woman? What if she is caught? Will God and her family forgive her for spying? If she has to choose between James and Elliott, who will she pick?
I enjoyed reading The Lady and the Officer very much. I can picture the scenes in my mind as I read the story. I am not sure if I could have even considered spying in order to gain information to pass along to the “other side”. The characters feelings and struggles are clearly shown regarding the terrible war in which families loyalties were often on different sides. I loved the characters in this story and would like to see them in the next book.
~~I received a copy of this book from Book Club Network and author for my honest review~~
Madeline Howard loved her peaceful home in Cashtown, Pennsylvania, but the battle in Gettysburg shattered that peacefulness—and her home, forever. Now she must make her way to her Aunt Clarisa and Uncle John Duncan's home in Richmond, VA—even though her heart remains in Pennsylvania and with General James Downing of the Union Army. At her aunt's home she soon meets Colonel Elliott Hayward of the Confederate Army. Elliot is falls in love with Madeline, but he learns her heart belongs to another. One day Madeline accidentally overhears a discussion regarding the Confederate's plans for the Union Army, giving her the perfect opportunity to “spy” and pass along this important information. But Madeline is torn, she wants to save James and put an end to the war quickly but how can she betray her beloved family and Elliott, who is now a friend? How does one go about spying when they have always been an honest, godly woman? What if she is caught? Will God and her family forgive her for spying? If she has to choose between James and Elliott, who will she pick?
I enjoyed reading The Lady and the Officer very much. I can picture the scenes in my mind as I read the story. I am not sure if I could have even considered spying in order to gain information to pass along to the “other side”. The characters feelings and struggles are clearly shown regarding the terrible war in which families loyalties were often on different sides. I loved the characters in this story and would like to see them in the next book.
~~I received a copy of this book from Book Club Network and author for my honest review~~
June 18, 2017
Serving as a nurse after the battle of Gettysburg, Madeline Howard saves the life of Confederate Colonel Elliott Maywood. As a southern Quaker who is a northern sympathizer, she is devastated when her house is shelled and burns to the ground. She is rescued by General James Downing of the Union forces. A spark ignites between them that is hard for Maddy to forget when she heads to Richmond Virginia to stay with her only family, an aunt an uncle, where she once again reconnects with Elliott Maywood. Which side will she stay true to and will she play one man for a fool as she tries to help out one side over the other?
This book was very similar to the previous novel, so I didn't find it as interesting as book 1. Just seemed a change of characters with a similar plot. It was good enough to finish with a good faith thread throughout, but I would have liked to have seen a different slant this time around.
FAVORITE QUOTE: "Although motivated by fierce patriotism for her country, Madeline realized that sin committed for nobel reasons was sin nonetheless. One cannot serve two masters."
This book was very similar to the previous novel, so I didn't find it as interesting as book 1. Just seemed a change of characters with a similar plot. It was good enough to finish with a good faith thread throughout, but I would have liked to have seen a different slant this time around.
FAVORITE QUOTE: "Although motivated by fierce patriotism for her country, Madeline realized that sin committed for nobel reasons was sin nonetheless. One cannot serve two masters."
April 18, 2019
A good fiction Civil War story with enough factual history to make it a good read. A Union widow finds the war takes her horses, burns her house and forces her to spend the rest of the war at the Confederate Capital of Richmond with her aunt. Ends as one would guess, the Union General wins over the Confederate Colonel.
August 11, 2023
This is one of the best books ever! Ever since I read The Quaker and the Rebel, and now I just finished The Lady and the Officer, I've loved them so much and wished there where more books in the series. I love how there's romance, there's history in it and it's Christian based. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves romance and history.
August 15, 2017
This was very good light reading. Good storyline.
July 18, 2021
A very good read.
Read
January 27, 2024I read this because I know the couple who posed for the cover.
September 12, 2014
I received a free kindle copy of The Lady and the Officer (Civil War Heroines Series) by Mary Ellis from NetGalley for fair review. It was a good read & almost a four star.
Any historical war book is sometimes painful to read. Having had ancestors on both sides of this conflict, there were times I was deeply saddened.
"Now the conflict held duty, but no glory; responsibility, but little honor." I would change that to NO honor, but then I'd have those previously mentioned ancestors turning in their graves.
General James Downing fought for the North. He tells Mrs. Madeline Howard: "Fatigue often circumvents our best intentions" when she apologized for not seeming grateful when he made sure she returned home safely. Her husband, who also fought for the North had been killed in a skirmish two years before she met the General.
Colonel Elliot Haywood had been the Confederate soldier she tended when she attempted to serve as a nurse for the wounded confederate soldiers. She later met him at her Uncle's home at a party & he saluted her with a champagne flute thanking her for saving his life. She explained, "My career lasted one short day. I discovered the stomach doesn't always follow where a compassionate heart might lead."
At the same celebration at her Uncle's home where she went after her own home was destroyed, she met Major Lewis
The Richmond weather was hot & humid. "Not a breath of air stirred the leafy branches overhead. If it became more any more humid, a person could wring the air like a wet dishrag."
Madeline's cousin Eugenia is a Southern Belle who is bridling at the restrictions the war is putting on her social life. She finally meets a suitable young man & will be escorted by him to Varina Davis's ball if it will be held. When she described this "Eugenia's smile revealed almost every tooth in her mouth."
When Madeline traveled to see General Downing again "she couldn't help feeling a thrill of excitement & a spike of trepidation." As she gets ready to leave he has made a pledge of fidelity. "Yet his words & promises had little place in a world gone mad."
Madeline is caught between General Downing & Colonel Haywood in the conflict of matters of the heart. Which man will she choose? Will they all survive this war?
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0736...
Any historical war book is sometimes painful to read. Having had ancestors on both sides of this conflict, there were times I was deeply saddened.
"Now the conflict held duty, but no glory; responsibility, but little honor." I would change that to NO honor, but then I'd have those previously mentioned ancestors turning in their graves.
General James Downing fought for the North. He tells Mrs. Madeline Howard: "Fatigue often circumvents our best intentions" when she apologized for not seeming grateful when he made sure she returned home safely. Her husband, who also fought for the North had been killed in a skirmish two years before she met the General.
Colonel Elliot Haywood had been the Confederate soldier she tended when she attempted to serve as a nurse for the wounded confederate soldiers. She later met him at her Uncle's home at a party & he saluted her with a champagne flute thanking her for saving his life. She explained, "My career lasted one short day. I discovered the stomach doesn't always follow where a compassionate heart might lead."
At the same celebration at her Uncle's home where she went after her own home was destroyed, she met Major Lewis
The Richmond weather was hot & humid. "Not a breath of air stirred the leafy branches overhead. If it became more any more humid, a person could wring the air like a wet dishrag."
Madeline's cousin Eugenia is a Southern Belle who is bridling at the restrictions the war is putting on her social life. She finally meets a suitable young man & will be escorted by him to Varina Davis's ball if it will be held. When she described this "Eugenia's smile revealed almost every tooth in her mouth."
When Madeline traveled to see General Downing again "she couldn't help feeling a thrill of excitement & a spike of trepidation." As she gets ready to leave he has made a pledge of fidelity. "Yet his words & promises had little place in a world gone mad."
Madeline is caught between General Downing & Colonel Haywood in the conflict of matters of the heart. Which man will she choose? Will they all survive this war?
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0736...
September 21, 2014
Mary Ellis in her new book, “The Lady and the Officer ” Book Two in the Civil War Heroines series published by Harvest House Publishers takes us into the life of Madeline Howard.
From the back cover: Love, loyalty and espionage…how does a lady live with all three?
Serving for a brief time as a nurse after the devastating battle of Gettysburg, Madeline Howard saves the life of Elliot Haywood, a colonel in the Confederate Home Guard. But even though Maddy makes her home in the South, her heart and political sympathies belong to General James Downing, a soldier from the North.
However, Colonel Haywood has never forgotten the beautiful nurse, and when he unexpectedly meets her again in Richmond, he is determined to win her. But while rubbing elbows with army officers and cavalry generals and war department officials in her aunt and uncle’s palatial home, Maddy overhears plans for a Confederate attack in northern Virginia. She knows passing along this information may save the life of her beloved James, but at what cost? Can she really betray the trust of her family and friends?
Maddy’s heart is pulled between wanting to be loyal to those who care for her and wanting to help the man she believes is on the right side of the conflict. Two men love her. Will her faith in God show her the way to a bright future, or will her choices bring a devastation of their own?
The Civil War has taken everything she has, her husband, her home, her livelihood. The only option she has left is to leave the North and travel to Richmond Va, the Capital of the Confederacy, to live with her aunt and uncle. Maddy is in love with a Northern General however a Southern Colonel is in love with her. On top of that Maddy overhears war plans for an attack on the North. So she risks everything to get these plans to the General.This is an exciting story with the events of The Civil War being played out as Maddy finds herself in an incredibly dangerous situation. And it is a romance too. This book is a lot of fun and it entertains you as you keep flipping pages as you try to find out what is going to happen next. Ms. Ellis has a great way of telling the story and moving it along at a nice pace. Her characters are wonderful and she gives them life and unique voices. A really enjoyable read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Love, loyalty and espionage…how does a lady live with all three?
Serving for a brief time as a nurse after the devastating battle of Gettysburg, Madeline Howard saves the life of Elliot Haywood, a colonel in the Confederate Home Guard. But even though Maddy makes her home in the South, her heart and political sympathies belong to General James Downing, a soldier from the North.
However, Colonel Haywood has never forgotten the beautiful nurse, and when he unexpectedly meets her again in Richmond, he is determined to win her. But while rubbing elbows with army officers and cavalry generals and war department officials in her aunt and uncle’s palatial home, Maddy overhears plans for a Confederate attack in northern Virginia. She knows passing along this information may save the life of her beloved James, but at what cost? Can she really betray the trust of her family and friends?
Maddy’s heart is pulled between wanting to be loyal to those who care for her and wanting to help the man she believes is on the right side of the conflict. Two men love her. Will her faith in God show her the way to a bright future, or will her choices bring a devastation of their own?
The Civil War has taken everything she has, her husband, her home, her livelihood. The only option she has left is to leave the North and travel to Richmond Va, the Capital of the Confederacy, to live with her aunt and uncle. Maddy is in love with a Northern General however a Southern Colonel is in love with her. On top of that Maddy overhears war plans for an attack on the North. So she risks everything to get these plans to the General.This is an exciting story with the events of The Civil War being played out as Maddy finds herself in an incredibly dangerous situation. And it is a romance too. This book is a lot of fun and it entertains you as you keep flipping pages as you try to find out what is going to happen next. Ms. Ellis has a great way of telling the story and moving it along at a nice pace. Her characters are wonderful and she gives them life and unique voices. A really enjoyable read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
January 8, 2015
This is the second book in the Civil War Heroines series but it can be read as a stand-alone since the characters are not connected to the first book. The story begins in 1863 and continues to the end of the Civil War in 1865. Maddy Howard is widow, living in PA during the Civil War and supporting herself as a horse-breeder. She meets Union General James Downing while the Union Army is stationed nearby during the Battle of Gettysburg. Gen. Downing is immediately smitten with Maddy but when her home is destroyed during the battle, she decides to head into Confederate territory to live with her maternal aunt and uncle in Richmond, VA. While there, she has opportunities to engage in spy activities in order to help the Union Army, and hopefully end the horrible war. What she doesn't plan on is the guilt she harbors from taking advantage of her family's hospitality and from the friendship she develops with Confederate Colonel Elliot Haywood. Being somewhat familiar with the area of Virginia in this story, I liked reading about all of the historical information during the Civil War. It's clear that the author did her research on both army's movements, strategies, and difficulties during this period of the Civil War. There is a slight love triangle because Col. Haywood also adores Maddy and tries to pursue her. However, Maddy is pretty clear to Col. Haywood that her heart belongs to another but he keeps trying. Maddy was a difficult character for me to understand. When she meets Gen. Downing in PA, he is clearly thinking about a future with her while she seemed to be more distant and stand-offish. But when she is in Richmond, she longs for him and believes she's in love with him. Even when they meet briefly during the middle of the story, I never got the feeling that she loved him like he loved her; she almost seemed petulant and disagreeable with him whenever they're together. There is an ethical/moral/spiritual question the author raises through Maddy: As a Christian, is it okay to participate in deceitful activities, even if the end is to try to stop a war? This reader was compelled to finish the story to learn, not only who she ends up with, but how she extricates herself from her self-created tangle. Overall, this was a good story with solid historical information.
* I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
* I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2014
Madeline Howard is a young widow of a Union soldier. Her husband, a horse breeder when they married, had answered the call of his country and was killed in the First Battle of Manassas. Madeline tries to continue her husband Tobias' work, but it is difficult to do alone. Then the war comes to her doorstep and she meets General James Dowling when his army comes stomping her flower bed on its way through to town. He then makes sure her favourite horse gets returned to her after his army takes her horses during the night.
During a battle of fire between the two sides, Maddy's home catches on fire and she loses everything. James rescues Maddy and takes her to the house set up as a headquarters for the army. There, with nothing else to do, she reads a medical book and decides to help out with nursing the soldiers.
Maddy quickly discovers she doesn't have the fortitude for the work but has organised for an enemy soldier to be seen by a surgeon to save his arm.
With no nearby relatives Maddy decides to make the journey south into enemy lands to stay with relatives there until the war is over.
Madeline remains a Northerner in her heart and mind, but is torn because of the love and respect she feels for her Southern protectors. During their short time together General James Dowling and Maddy make promises to explore their mutual attraction when the war ends. Whilst living in the South she meets the soldier who she had helped during her short experience of nursing.
Maddy is caught between two worlds of faith and loyalty and shares her struggles of being caught between the two sides.
This was a lovely story of the decisions made during wartime, family loyalty, and being true to yourself. I enjoyed it immensely.
I received a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
During a battle of fire between the two sides, Maddy's home catches on fire and she loses everything. James rescues Maddy and takes her to the house set up as a headquarters for the army. There, with nothing else to do, she reads a medical book and decides to help out with nursing the soldiers.
Maddy quickly discovers she doesn't have the fortitude for the work but has organised for an enemy soldier to be seen by a surgeon to save his arm.
With no nearby relatives Maddy decides to make the journey south into enemy lands to stay with relatives there until the war is over.
Madeline remains a Northerner in her heart and mind, but is torn because of the love and respect she feels for her Southern protectors. During their short time together General James Dowling and Maddy make promises to explore their mutual attraction when the war ends. Whilst living in the South she meets the soldier who she had helped during her short experience of nursing.
Maddy is caught between two worlds of faith and loyalty and shares her struggles of being caught between the two sides.
This was a lovely story of the decisions made during wartime, family loyalty, and being true to yourself. I enjoyed it immensely.
I received a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
January 15, 2015
Madeline Howard, Yankee, widowed by the Civil War is determined to stay in Cashtown, PA to continue raising horses on the farm she and her husband built. The War….had other plans. Her home was ravaged by both the Union and Confederate Armies. Her horses were taken, her home was burned and she only escaped with her life because General James Downing, of the Union, saved her. With no family or friends left in Cashton, she has no choice but to take refuge with her aunt and uncle in Richmond, although her political sympathies were with the Union. While in Richmond Colonel Haywood seeks her attention because during the battle of Gettysburg, during her one-day nursing excursion, she saved his life, even if he was a Confederate. Because her uncle worked for Confederate President Davis, she had access to information that would help the Union so she became a somewhat reluctant short-term spy. With the fall of Richmond the family must flee…leaving behind their beloved home and Madeline must sever ties with her family to save them from punishment for harboring a spy.
MS Ellis did a fabulous job in developing the characters and story line. She made me feel like I was personal friends with them and that I was part of the story. However I was somewhat disappointed in the ending. It left me wanting to know what happened to Madeline’s family after fleeing Richmond and what happened to Colonel Haywood.
If you love anything to do with the Civil War and Historical romance—you won’t want to miss this book. It is a great book for those with a romantic heart.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this eBook by the publisher, Harvest House Publishers, through NetGalley blogger program for review. I was not required to write a favorable review nor was I compensated for my review. The opinions in this review are my own.
MS Ellis did a fabulous job in developing the characters and story line. She made me feel like I was personal friends with them and that I was part of the story. However I was somewhat disappointed in the ending. It left me wanting to know what happened to Madeline’s family after fleeing Richmond and what happened to Colonel Haywood.
If you love anything to do with the Civil War and Historical romance—you won’t want to miss this book. It is a great book for those with a romantic heart.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this eBook by the publisher, Harvest House Publishers, through NetGalley blogger program for review. I was not required to write a favorable review nor was I compensated for my review. The opinions in this review are my own.
December 13, 2014
I loved this book. Mary Ellis is awesome at telling a story. While reading The Lady and the Officer I could picture the scenes she painted. This book was so interesting that I feel it could be made into a movie, not that it would do the book justice. The Lady and the Officer is book two in the Civil War Heroine Series, the first book is called The Quaker and the Rebel. I did not have to read the first book to love this one. But after reading how Ellis writes I am dying to read more of her books. I could not put this book down!
Madeline has had her share of hardships in her life and she is still so young! When almost everything has been taken from you, little things can set you off. That’s exactly what happened when some soldiers were ruining the flowers in Madeline’s garden. One of those soldiers was General James Downing. Ever since meeting him Madeline begins to feel in a way she never thought she would again. And James can’t shake his fascination of her either.
It was so interesting learning more about the civil war times. Ellis helped me imagine how hard it would have been back then. When son was turned against father, and soldiers took things whether they were freely given or not. I couldn’t imagine watching someone walk off with my livestock and not doing something about it. The Lady and the Officer is a great love story with many great twists and turns. It was hard to put down, and kept me dying to know what was going to happen next. I highly, highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction of any type. You will not regret reading this book! I can promise you that! I received a copy of this book from the author, Harvest House Publishers, and TBCN in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
Madeline has had her share of hardships in her life and she is still so young! When almost everything has been taken from you, little things can set you off. That’s exactly what happened when some soldiers were ruining the flowers in Madeline’s garden. One of those soldiers was General James Downing. Ever since meeting him Madeline begins to feel in a way she never thought she would again. And James can’t shake his fascination of her either.
It was so interesting learning more about the civil war times. Ellis helped me imagine how hard it would have been back then. When son was turned against father, and soldiers took things whether they were freely given or not. I couldn’t imagine watching someone walk off with my livestock and not doing something about it. The Lady and the Officer is a great love story with many great twists and turns. It was hard to put down, and kept me dying to know what was going to happen next. I highly, highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction of any type. You will not regret reading this book! I can promise you that! I received a copy of this book from the author, Harvest House Publishers, and TBCN in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 12, 2014
The Lady and The Officer, takes place during the Civil War, a war that tore our Country apart. This is Madeline Howards story, and a remarkable woman she was, loosing her new husband to the war, then loosing her home, and livelihood, she embarks across enemy lines to stay with the only family she has remaining, in the Capital of the Confederacy, Richmond Va.
With her loyalties lying with the North she is now living with her Aunt and Uncle and Cousin in the South. Not only that, but her Uncle works directly with Jefferson Davis, President of The Confederacy. Before she left the North she had an encounter with a Union General, James Dowling, and now she is in the South with Col Elliot Haywood, the only patient, her one-day of nursing, she saved.
Now there are two men who are vying for her, and it takes until the end of the book to find out whom God has chosen for her. I loved seeing how these people lived during this tough time, Madeline’s family are rather well off, but times and circumstances of the War sure change things. With all the death, and hardships that War brings, we watch these people dig in and give to those who are less fortunate. There are also tidbits of real facts about what is going on at this time, such a black mark on our beloved Country.
We of course, living way in the future from this time, know what happens, and who wins, but in a way everyone was a looser. I felt the only way any of them survived was because of their great faith in God, no mater which church they worshiped in.
Journey with Madeline on this historic visit and decisions that alter all of their lives, you will be glad you picked up this book.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harvest House, and was not required to give a positive review.
With her loyalties lying with the North she is now living with her Aunt and Uncle and Cousin in the South. Not only that, but her Uncle works directly with Jefferson Davis, President of The Confederacy. Before she left the North she had an encounter with a Union General, James Dowling, and now she is in the South with Col Elliot Haywood, the only patient, her one-day of nursing, she saved.
Now there are two men who are vying for her, and it takes until the end of the book to find out whom God has chosen for her. I loved seeing how these people lived during this tough time, Madeline’s family are rather well off, but times and circumstances of the War sure change things. With all the death, and hardships that War brings, we watch these people dig in and give to those who are less fortunate. There are also tidbits of real facts about what is going on at this time, such a black mark on our beloved Country.
We of course, living way in the future from this time, know what happens, and who wins, but in a way everyone was a looser. I felt the only way any of them survived was because of their great faith in God, no mater which church they worshiped in.
Journey with Madeline on this historic visit and decisions that alter all of their lives, you will be glad you picked up this book.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harvest House, and was not required to give a positive review.
February 18, 2017
Ellis is a new author to me -- but I certainly have enjoyed this one as well as her The Quaker and the Rebel! This particular book gave me some additional insight (albeit, fictionalized) into the daily life of upper-class Richmond, Va. during the Civil War. A very good Christian fiction read!
August 11, 2014
This book was rather special and personal in a surprising way. I love romantic historical fiction, and so clearly this was a typical selection for me. The fun part for me was the geography referenced in the book. I actually live in Spotsylvania, Virginia near the city of Fredericksburg, just north of Richmond and very close to Culpeper. Author Mary Ellis was spot on in her history and descriptions of the area the characters moved through. I was so absorbed in the story and excited to see my local history come to life.
Author Mary Ellis tells the story of war widow, Madeline Howard whose husband fought for the Union. As the war creeps into her backyard she is rescued by dashing General James Downing. They quickly form an attachment, but Madeline is forced to find shelter with her only family left in Richmond. It is there she finds herself constantly pulled between the the love of her Confederate family and her loyalty not only her country, but her new found love.
I loved the quick whit author Mary Ellis gave to Madeline. Fiction with strong female lead characters coupled with real human emotion always appeal to me. This is an excellent read and well worth adding to your must read list. A Lady and the Officer is the second book in the Civil War Heroines Series. This book stands alone, but having enjoyed it so much, I will definitely go back and read the first book.
This was definitely a perfect read for me, but you need not live here to enjoy it. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated.
Author Mary Ellis tells the story of war widow, Madeline Howard whose husband fought for the Union. As the war creeps into her backyard she is rescued by dashing General James Downing. They quickly form an attachment, but Madeline is forced to find shelter with her only family left in Richmond. It is there she finds herself constantly pulled between the the love of her Confederate family and her loyalty not only her country, but her new found love.
I loved the quick whit author Mary Ellis gave to Madeline. Fiction with strong female lead characters coupled with real human emotion always appeal to me. This is an excellent read and well worth adding to your must read list. A Lady and the Officer is the second book in the Civil War Heroines Series. This book stands alone, but having enjoyed it so much, I will definitely go back and read the first book.
This was definitely a perfect read for me, but you need not live here to enjoy it. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated.
December 31, 2014
The Lady and the Officer by Mary Ellis was a sweeping Civil War story depicting one woman’s life and decisions during the last two years of that most brutal war. Having been widowed due to the war, Madeline Howard has also lost her late husband’s business (he was a horse breeder), her home, and purpose in Pennsylvania. Being a Yankee through and through, she still decided she needed to move to Richmond, Virginia to seek shelter with her wealthy Uncle, Aunt, and cousin. However, before she leaves she has managed to capture the attention of a Union officer by the name of James Downing. He implores her to stay on the North side during the war however she feels she still needs to go to family. Since there is nothing James can do while the war is going on, he promises to write and vows to her and (himself) that he will find her after the war.
Now what I found very fascinating was how Madeline, being from the north and very much wanting the Union to win, has learned how to live her daily life in the very capital of the Confederacy. How she still loves her family and they her, yet they have very opposing views. There is intrigue, spies, and a bit of a love triangle when a Confederate soldier steps into her life in Richmond making Madeline’s decisions more complicated. This is my first Mary Ellis book and her romantic historical had me right there experiencing the South with Madeline. This story was very unpredictable and I so very enjoyed the resolution of this book. One particular scene was just amazing to me with how it played out. Thank you to the The Book Club Network, Inc. (TBCN) for my review copy. The opinions are my own.
Now what I found very fascinating was how Madeline, being from the north and very much wanting the Union to win, has learned how to live her daily life in the very capital of the Confederacy. How she still loves her family and they her, yet they have very opposing views. There is intrigue, spies, and a bit of a love triangle when a Confederate soldier steps into her life in Richmond making Madeline’s decisions more complicated. This is my first Mary Ellis book and her romantic historical had me right there experiencing the South with Madeline. This story was very unpredictable and I so very enjoyed the resolution of this book. One particular scene was just amazing to me with how it played out. Thank you to the The Book Club Network, Inc. (TBCN) for my review copy. The opinions are my own.
September 30, 2014
Although this is Mary Ellis' second novel in the Civil War Heroines series, each novel is a stand alone read so you can start with this book or the first she offered which is titled "A Quaker and a Rebel" while not feeling confused.. The author writes and describes things so well that you feel as though you can see the horses and church or home interiors, smell the food and countryside, hear the sounds of battles, and feel the fabric of the ball gowns worn by the ladies and the soldier uniforms as they chat or dance by the reader. This time period depended more on private conversation and badinage---which the author handles adroitly. The differences in the North/South way of life and thinking is very apparent in this novel. While some areas of the war are scant miles apart, the people seem miles apart in their thinking. As the heroine (Madeline Howard) of this novel quickly realizes, Southerners are mostly aware of the loss of slaves and meager foodstuffs while she, a Yankee, is more aware of lost possessions, businesses,churches and homes. I appreciated the author's efforts to show how difficult it was for people to choose sides and the pressures on common folks to perform acts of treason rather than just political figures or officers. I was also moved by the reminder that being forced to listen to conversations/discussion one does not believe in, while remaining polite for hours takes a strong mind and causes exhaustion. I also appreciate the discussion questions that the author provides for book clubs. Looking forward to Mary Ellis' next book!
October 19, 2014
The Lady and the Officer is a Civil War tale. What sets this one apart from some of the others is it is told from both sides of the war. In the beginning of the book, Madeline Howard is a widow, her husband having been killed in the early days of the war. She is trying to keep up their horse farm in Pennsylvania. As the Battle of Gettysburg comes to her doorstep, she finds herself in the crosshairs of both armies. General John Downing, a Union general comes to her aide and finds a place in her heart. Even he cannot prevent the loss of all her horses or the destruction of her home. When the battle is over, Madeline finds herself homeless and without the means to pursue her livelihood. Her only surviving family is serving the Confederacy in Richmond, VA. Madeline makes her way south and is lovingly taken in by her aunt and family.
Her loyalties still to the Union cause, Madeline believes that she has a moral duty to be on the alert for any information which might be of use to the Northern troops so she can pass it on. She never thinks about what her duplicity might mean to those who have loved and befriended her.
This book takes an interesting point of view by looking at war from both sides. Both sides of the Civil War had good, honorable Americans who were just trying to be loyal to their friends and neighbors. Both sides had people who were willing to betray and steal from those who trusted them.
I received this book from NetGalley in return for my honest review
Her loyalties still to the Union cause, Madeline believes that she has a moral duty to be on the alert for any information which might be of use to the Northern troops so she can pass it on. She never thinks about what her duplicity might mean to those who have loved and befriended her.
This book takes an interesting point of view by looking at war from both sides. Both sides of the Civil War had good, honorable Americans who were just trying to be loyal to their friends and neighbors. Both sides had people who were willing to betray and steal from those who trusted them.
I received this book from NetGalley in return for my honest review
July 31, 2014
Madeline Howard meets Union General James Downing during the battle of Gettysburg. She's been a widow for two years, and now James captures her attention.
When she loses her Pennsylvania home during the battle, and with no other family, she goes to Richmond to live with her aunt. Aunt Clarisa's family accepts her into their home with no thought of the Civil War going on around them. The neighbors also seem to blithely accept her presence.
Madeline and James try to correspond, but for some reason, she's aroused the hostility of his adjutant, who burns the general's letters. In Richmond, she also has to deal with the maid's ire. Why Clarisa kept the lazy maid is hard to understand.
She comes to the notice of Colonel Elliot Haywood, who vies for her affection despite her telling him she favors someone in the north. After a time, she uses his friendship and her uncle's position in Jefferson Davis' government to learn Confederate secrets to send north by way of a fisherman.
I didn't always like Madeline. In the brief periods of time she was with James, she often got irritated and snapped at him. Granted, her life hasn't been easy the last few years. Her relationship with Elliot was more interesting. He was a good man, but on the wrong side.
I'm not very familiar with the Civil War era, but kept wondering if a Northern would really have been so welcome in the South.
When she loses her Pennsylvania home during the battle, and with no other family, she goes to Richmond to live with her aunt. Aunt Clarisa's family accepts her into their home with no thought of the Civil War going on around them. The neighbors also seem to blithely accept her presence.
Madeline and James try to correspond, but for some reason, she's aroused the hostility of his adjutant, who burns the general's letters. In Richmond, she also has to deal with the maid's ire. Why Clarisa kept the lazy maid is hard to understand.
She comes to the notice of Colonel Elliot Haywood, who vies for her affection despite her telling him she favors someone in the north. After a time, she uses his friendship and her uncle's position in Jefferson Davis' government to learn Confederate secrets to send north by way of a fisherman.
I didn't always like Madeline. In the brief periods of time she was with James, she often got irritated and snapped at him. Granted, her life hasn't been easy the last few years. Her relationship with Elliot was more interesting. He was a good man, but on the wrong side.
I'm not very familiar with the Civil War era, but kept wondering if a Northern would really have been so welcome in the South.
August 4, 2014
As the story opens, Union widow Madeline Howard suffers the loss of her horses, home, and means of living. Demanding the return of at least one of her horses from the Union, she searches for General James Downing who is stationed in Gettysburg for the famous and terrible battle. There meeting is star-crossed in its timing since Madeline must flee the area as her resources are depleted. And, General Downing must stay with his troops for the next two years at least.
The nearest relatives are Clarisa and John in Richmond, Virginia. Madeline is received warmly in their home, with some wariness from other Richmond residents because she is a Northerner in their midst.
Colonel Elliot Haywood, a Confederate officer and friend of her aunt/uncle, becomes a strong ally of Madeline. In love with Madeline, he tries repeatedly to win her favor. She maintains always that she is only interested in friendship.
To stay true to the North, Madeline undertakes some spy activities. Later realizing the pain of the war for all sides, she self-examines her motives and actions.
Thank you to Harvest House for providing me an advance copy for review. I will be looking for more books by Mary Ellis.
The nearest relatives are Clarisa and John in Richmond, Virginia. Madeline is received warmly in their home, with some wariness from other Richmond residents because she is a Northerner in their midst.
Colonel Elliot Haywood, a Confederate officer and friend of her aunt/uncle, becomes a strong ally of Madeline. In love with Madeline, he tries repeatedly to win her favor. She maintains always that she is only interested in friendship.
To stay true to the North, Madeline undertakes some spy activities. Later realizing the pain of the war for all sides, she self-examines her motives and actions.
Thank you to Harvest House for providing me an advance copy for review. I will be looking for more books by Mary Ellis.
August 4, 2014
Set in the midst of the Civil War, The Lady and the Officer follows a northern widow, a Union General and Confederate Colonel as their lives intersect.
Madeline's Pennsylvania home is destroyed, forcing her to seek refuge with her family in Virginia, where she is considered a Union sympathizer and possibly a spy due to her relationship with General James Dowling. Complicating matters is her friendship with Confederate Colonel Elliott Haywood.
The story is rich in characterization, and the war action blends in seamlessly with the personal lives of the people. As situations became more and more complicated, I did wonder how Ms. Ellis would pull off a satisfying and believable ending. It just didn't seem possible in a few spots! But as the final events unfolded, the characters revealed their inner depth and I was very pleased with the result.
You know those books that whisper to you during your daily life, telling you to set aside what you are supposed to be doing, and go read some more? This is one of those. I was new to Mary Ellis, but will now snap up anything I can get my hands on!
Madeline's Pennsylvania home is destroyed, forcing her to seek refuge with her family in Virginia, where she is considered a Union sympathizer and possibly a spy due to her relationship with General James Dowling. Complicating matters is her friendship with Confederate Colonel Elliott Haywood.
The story is rich in characterization, and the war action blends in seamlessly with the personal lives of the people. As situations became more and more complicated, I did wonder how Ms. Ellis would pull off a satisfying and believable ending. It just didn't seem possible in a few spots! But as the final events unfolded, the characters revealed their inner depth and I was very pleased with the result.
You know those books that whisper to you during your daily life, telling you to set aside what you are supposed to be doing, and go read some more? This is one of those. I was new to Mary Ellis, but will now snap up anything I can get my hands on!
March 27, 2015
Love, Loyalty, and Espionage…
Recently I was introduced to Mary Ellis’ Civil War series… and I discovered that Civil War romances are just as exciting and romantic as Amish or contemporary romances.
What an amazing series!
If you want to know how a lady can possibly live with all three — love, loyalty, and espionage — read The Lady and the Officer.
Mary Ellis introduces new characters in this second book of the series, with many of them union and confederate soldiers.
How difficult is must have been for Madeline Howard to leave her home — and James Downing, a general in the Union Army. At her aunt’s home she meets Colonel Elliott Hayward of the Confederate Army.
Whoa! Talk about a difficult position to be in!
When Maddy learns of Confederate plans for the Union Army, will she pass it on in the hope of ending the war quickly? Even if it could save James, she would be betraying her family… and Elliot.
Mary’s characters are full of life; they seem as real as the people I see read about in the news. They make the same mistakes and feel the same emotions.
If you enjoy reading historical fiction, don’t miss this wonderful series!
February 11, 2015
I enjoyed this novel about a spunky woman who keeps going even after she's lost everything. I admired her determination and how hard it must have been to move into enemy territory in the South when she believed in the Northern cause and she couldn't even blend in because of her accent. She had to leave everything she knew behind. I thought the romance was too quick, with Maddy and James falling for each other very quickly. I liked that we got both of their viewpoints and some of the other characters, as well. There wasn't as much to the espionage angle as I expected. I think the story mainly showed what it was like to live during the Civil War and how life was changing. Most of the characters had faith of some kind, some Episcopal, some Catholic. It was shown as important to them. Even though this is part of a series, each book really stands alone, with none of the characters overlapping. I would recommend it if you like historical fiction.
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.
August 19, 2014
5 stars ***** out of 5
Historical Novel
This novel is set in the Ozark Mountains, and by what I have read in other books, it is a great setting if you want to write a book that deals superstitions. Mental health, and Spook-lights are just two of them explored in this book.( I should mention that Spook-light is not just superstition, it is true) The story starts with a shout, as U.S. Marshall Ian Cowley tries to run down the outlaw. Lyric has more than an unusual name to cause her to shy away from the general public, her ill mother, the house they live in and more. Lori Copeland weaves a tale that kept me on edge through out story, reading in long stretches as I followed the people. There were times, as I was reading at night that I looked for the light, so vivid did she write about the things around the characters. And the hole in the barn? Well, I guess you need to read the book to find out about that!
I received this Ebook free from Harvest House Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.
Historical Novel
This novel is set in the Ozark Mountains, and by what I have read in other books, it is a great setting if you want to write a book that deals superstitions. Mental health, and Spook-lights are just two of them explored in this book.( I should mention that Spook-light is not just superstition, it is true) The story starts with a shout, as U.S. Marshall Ian Cowley tries to run down the outlaw. Lyric has more than an unusual name to cause her to shy away from the general public, her ill mother, the house they live in and more. Lori Copeland weaves a tale that kept me on edge through out story, reading in long stretches as I followed the people. There were times, as I was reading at night that I looked for the light, so vivid did she write about the things around the characters. And the hole in the barn? Well, I guess you need to read the book to find out about that!
I received this Ebook free from Harvest House Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.
October 16, 2014
I’ve always been a fan of historical fiction and this story did not disappoint. The perspective was different from the other novels I’ve read set in the Civil War, so I appreciated that. I got to see some struggles and concerns, and quite frankly love and understanding that I normally don’t see in other books set during this famous war. It’s common to hear of how family fought against family, but I was happy to see some acceptance in Maddy’s family because that resonates as true to me for many of the families during that time.
The story was unpredictable and kept me guessing. I’ll even have to admit that at 57% in I had to flip to end because I was freaking out not being able to tell how the story would end. I had to know! It was very suspenseful!
I’d definitely recommend it to anyone that enjoys historical Christian romance. I’ll personally look forward to reading more from Mary Ellis.
*I received a copy via NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.*
The story was unpredictable and kept me guessing. I’ll even have to admit that at 57% in I had to flip to end because I was freaking out not being able to tell how the story would end. I had to know! It was very suspenseful!
I’d definitely recommend it to anyone that enjoys historical Christian romance. I’ll personally look forward to reading more from Mary Ellis.
*I received a copy via NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.*
March 21, 2015
And that may be generous. The book describes her as a nurse, but I have no idea where they got that because she wasn't. She read a book left on a bedside table about caring for injuries, and she spent literally one day with the minister's wife during which it says she lost her lunch because she couldn't handle it.
The part where I put it down though was when they begin describing her as so in love with this general that she maybe talked with three times. When she can't figure out how she's going to converse with the sworn enemy (the confederates) of her beloved, I decided I was done. They seriously met a handful of roles with small talk mostly. It could have at least given it a bit of time for letters to be exchanged and a relationship to grow.
Oh, and when she gets to the south, the man she saved while nursing obviously on her one day she admits recognizes her and of course is smitten. Wow. Too much else to read...
The part where I put it down though was when they begin describing her as so in love with this general that she maybe talked with three times. When she can't figure out how she's going to converse with the sworn enemy (the confederates) of her beloved, I decided I was done. They seriously met a handful of roles with small talk mostly. It could have at least given it a bit of time for letters to be exchanged and a relationship to grow.
Oh, and when she gets to the south, the man she saved while nursing obviously on her one day she admits recognizes her and of course is smitten. Wow. Too much else to read...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews