What do you think?
Rate this book
Finding Home #2
Until We All Run Free
Wisconsin, 1867
Now that the Civil War is over, Jed Young has reconciled with his siblings, made peace with God, and is ready to settle down and start his new life. Somewhere out of the city. Somewhere quiet. Somewhere far, far away from women.
Mary Pierce has a picture-perfect life with three beautiful daughters and a lumberjack husband who adores her. When tragedy alters the course of her life, Mary has to lean on God in deeper ways, learning to navigate her challenging new path.
Unable to look away from the suffering of his friends, Jed steps in, taciturn and steady but clueless of social convention. How far is he willing to go to open himself up to this woman and the possibility of a home and family of his own?
Now that the Civil War is over, Jed Young has reconciled with his siblings, made peace with God, and is ready to settle down and start his new life. Somewhere out of the city. Somewhere quiet. Somewhere far, far away from women.
Mary Pierce has a picture-perfect life with three beautiful daughters and a lumberjack husband who adores her. When tragedy alters the course of her life, Mary has to lean on God in deeper ways, learning to navigate her challenging new path.
Unable to look away from the suffering of his friends, Jed steps in, taciturn and steady but clueless of social convention. How far is he willing to go to open himself up to this woman and the possibility of a home and family of his own?
Paperback
First published October 13, 2020
About the author
Heather Wood
7 books275 followersHeather Wood grew up in the Chicago suburbs, loving history, classic literature, writing stories, and Civil War reenacting. After obtaining her bachelor's degree in Bible/Theology from Appalachian Bible College, she settled in Virginia with her husband, David. Her early passions fuel her writing today, although she spends most of her days now working to infuse her love for God and good literature into the hearts of her four children. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram @heather.wood.author.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 17, 2021
After finishing book one, Until We All Find Home, I told @heather.wood.author my favorite character was Jed- awkward, misunderstood Jed--rough exterior, but all heart underneath. I was thrilled to have her sequel, Until We All Run Free, follow his story! Listen to these opening lines:
"There are those who fear the dark and the loneliness it brings, and there are those who find relief in the anonymity of the shadows. And then there are those, like Jed Young, for whom the dark is a treasured time of solace, as necessary for facing the day as lungs full of oxygen and a hot cup of coffee." 🥰 Hooked.
I read this one in a few days. Could not put it down.
Again, Heather gives us a realistic story, no rose-colored, glossed over plot. People have struggles--deep rooted pain that can fester and tear down ourselves and those around us if we aren't resting in the work Christ has done. One of my favorite scenes came when Jed described what he was learning to his brother: "I ought not treat as obstacles, battles that Jesus Christ already won. Shall we say, recognize Him as the Victor... Since Jesus is the only thing I need, I was free from everything else I'd given power in my life." 💙
"There are those who fear the dark and the loneliness it brings, and there are those who find relief in the anonymity of the shadows. And then there are those, like Jed Young, for whom the dark is a treasured time of solace, as necessary for facing the day as lungs full of oxygen and a hot cup of coffee." 🥰 Hooked.
I read this one in a few days. Could not put it down.
Again, Heather gives us a realistic story, no rose-colored, glossed over plot. People have struggles--deep rooted pain that can fester and tear down ourselves and those around us if we aren't resting in the work Christ has done. One of my favorite scenes came when Jed described what he was learning to his brother: "I ought not treat as obstacles, battles that Jesus Christ already won. Shall we say, recognize Him as the Victor... Since Jesus is the only thing I need, I was free from everything else I'd given power in my life." 💙
August 4, 2022
I found "Until We All Run Free" to be a great follow up book "Until We All Find Home".
I very much appreciate that Author Heather Wood writes such character driven stories and I in particular really liked how she portrayed that both the husband and wife in the story had to learn, grow, apologize, and change. Also the fact that she reminded the reader communication is a big key to marriage was nice.
For historical fiction, the Author tackles lots of deep theological issues and I always appreciate how she turns everything back to Jesus Christ and His importance in our lives.
I very much appreciate that Author Heather Wood writes such character driven stories and I in particular really liked how she portrayed that both the husband and wife in the story had to learn, grow, apologize, and change. Also the fact that she reminded the reader communication is a big key to marriage was nice.
For historical fiction, the Author tackles lots of deep theological issues and I always appreciate how she turns everything back to Jesus Christ and His importance in our lives.
Read
September 5, 2024I was really looking forwards to this book. I was unaware that it was a marriage of convenience story, or I would not have read it. At first I loved it—it was so nice to see the characters again, and I loved the new characters, and the writing style was really very good. Unfortunately, by 20% there was just too much sexual content for me personally as a young, unmarried woman. The message was really very good, but for me it was overshadowed by the content. If you like marriage of convenience stories, and if good books about romance and marriage are your cuppa tea, this one would probably be a favourite of yours.
*I received an ARC of this book in return for my honest review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions. I will probably reread and update this review in a few years when I am older/maturer.*
*I received an ARC of this book in return for my honest review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions. I will probably reread and update this review in a few years when I am older/maturer.*
December 28, 2024
Oh my goodness, I loved this novel. So rich and deep, filled with truth and light. Absolutely beautiful Christian fiction.
January 14, 2021
"What God does in each life is for the benefit and blessing of all. They all come together in one bigger story that matters because it's His story. The story of the God Who still resurrects dead things and, when everything looks dark, always gives light."
This second book in the series was SO good and richer and deeper.
This book continues the story of the Young Siblings post Civil War. It focuses more on Jack and Jed Young. I fell in love even more with Jack and want to keep learning about Jed. I feel like his story isn't done. It also revists the other siblings. I just want to know more and more about each person and their spouses and growing families. I was so happy to see Luke and Justin again as well (I maybe be biased but they were my favorites). The characters are depicted so well. What stood out to me in the first book did again in the second. Each character development and their journey is so real.
The research into this time period that Heather has done is evident throughout the book. I can always picture in my mind the dresses, horses being tied up, guns being holstered, log cabins, and daily manual labor involed in this time period.
The love story is sweet and so fulfilling. But even more fulfilling and interwoven is God's love story that is being written with each person . Each character comes to the realization that only God can fulfill. It was refreshing to read this and convicting at times. I absolutely wanted to rush to read this book ,yet slow down and savor because I knew it would end all too soon!
"The story of the God Who still resurrects dead things and, when everything looks dark, always gives light."
This second book in the series was SO good and richer and deeper.
This book continues the story of the Young Siblings post Civil War. It focuses more on Jack and Jed Young. I fell in love even more with Jack and want to keep learning about Jed. I feel like his story isn't done. It also revists the other siblings. I just want to know more and more about each person and their spouses and growing families. I was so happy to see Luke and Justin again as well (I maybe be biased but they were my favorites). The characters are depicted so well. What stood out to me in the first book did again in the second. Each character development and their journey is so real.
The research into this time period that Heather has done is evident throughout the book. I can always picture in my mind the dresses, horses being tied up, guns being holstered, log cabins, and daily manual labor involed in this time period.
The love story is sweet and so fulfilling. But even more fulfilling and interwoven is God's love story that is being written with each person . Each character comes to the realization that only God can fulfill. It was refreshing to read this and convicting at times. I absolutely wanted to rush to read this book ,yet slow down and savor because I knew it would end all too soon!
"The story of the God Who still resurrects dead things and, when everything looks dark, always gives light."
October 29, 2020
An emotional story that not only entertains, but challenges the mind and soul–that is Heather Wood’s latest novel, Until We All Run Free!
If you have read Heather’s first book, Until We All Find Home, you may notice that this book picks up right where that one left off! I really enjoyed this, especially since I finished the first book and started this one on the same day, so I literally did not miss a beat with the characters and their journeys.
As with Find Home, this book is very character driven, though I felt like the plot was more prominent in this story. The characters are well-written and well-rounded and you easily become invested in what happens to them. Once again, I had my favorite characters whose story I was most eager to read about, and this time that was Jed and Mary. Ahhh, Jed…. He is adorably soft-spoken, endearingly awkward, and yet… painfully frustrating! Sometimes I wanted to shake him by the shoulders and get him to just open up to Mary. But Heather masterfully plays out their romance in a way that leaves you dying to reach the next scene between them, and all of the waiting pays off beautifully in the end! I couldn’t have imagined a sweeter or most satisfying conclusion to both their journey to love, and the book as a whole.
What makes this book such a gem, though, is the moving and profound message that Heather weaves into the very fabric of the story. I love books like this, where God and the characters’ spiritual journeys are not just side notes in the story but are integral to the entire book as a whole. Both Jed and Jack’s journeys of learning to accept and live in the freedom that God gives us from our pasts, and Mary’s journey of learning to trust and wait upon the Lord, are so beautiful and give the reader much food for thought.
If you are looking for an inspiring read full of heart, tender romance, deep spiritual themes, and characters you can’t help but love that go through very real and relatable struggles… then you need to read this beautiful novel! 5/5 Stars for Until We All Run Fee!
If you have read Heather’s first book, Until We All Find Home, you may notice that this book picks up right where that one left off! I really enjoyed this, especially since I finished the first book and started this one on the same day, so I literally did not miss a beat with the characters and their journeys.
As with Find Home, this book is very character driven, though I felt like the plot was more prominent in this story. The characters are well-written and well-rounded and you easily become invested in what happens to them. Once again, I had my favorite characters whose story I was most eager to read about, and this time that was Jed and Mary. Ahhh, Jed…. He is adorably soft-spoken, endearingly awkward, and yet… painfully frustrating! Sometimes I wanted to shake him by the shoulders and get him to just open up to Mary. But Heather masterfully plays out their romance in a way that leaves you dying to reach the next scene between them, and all of the waiting pays off beautifully in the end! I couldn’t have imagined a sweeter or most satisfying conclusion to both their journey to love, and the book as a whole.
What makes this book such a gem, though, is the moving and profound message that Heather weaves into the very fabric of the story. I love books like this, where God and the characters’ spiritual journeys are not just side notes in the story but are integral to the entire book as a whole. Both Jed and Jack’s journeys of learning to accept and live in the freedom that God gives us from our pasts, and Mary’s journey of learning to trust and wait upon the Lord, are so beautiful and give the reader much food for thought.
If you are looking for an inspiring read full of heart, tender romance, deep spiritual themes, and characters you can’t help but love that go through very real and relatable struggles… then you need to read this beautiful novel! 5/5 Stars for Until We All Run Fee!
February 27, 2022
This character-driven novel tells the continuing story of the Young siblings, but focuses particularly on Jed, the introverted third sibling. Jed’s character is exceptionally dimensional, believable, and engaging, as is the character of Mary his wife.
I love a good marriage-of-convenience story and I love fiction that focuses on realistic marriage stories. This book delivers on both counts. The struggles that Jed and Mary faced, and their efforts to overcome them, had me reading quickly wondering how on earth they were going to work out their seemingly irreconcilable differences.
One thing I appreciated was that Wood carefully crafted a story where both spouses had to learn, grow, apologize, and change. Though Jed had more “issues,” Mary also had much to learn. As in real life conflicts, often the problem was not that one was right and the other wrong, but that they couldn’t clearly communicate with each other.
Wood does a lovely job in exploring some deep theological truths regarding overcoming one’s past and walking in Christ’s victory over sin, as well as choosing unconditional love.
I love a good marriage-of-convenience story and I love fiction that focuses on realistic marriage stories. This book delivers on both counts. The struggles that Jed and Mary faced, and their efforts to overcome them, had me reading quickly wondering how on earth they were going to work out their seemingly irreconcilable differences.
One thing I appreciated was that Wood carefully crafted a story where both spouses had to learn, grow, apologize, and change. Though Jed had more “issues,” Mary also had much to learn. As in real life conflicts, often the problem was not that one was right and the other wrong, but that they couldn’t clearly communicate with each other.
Wood does a lovely job in exploring some deep theological truths regarding overcoming one’s past and walking in Christ’s victory over sin, as well as choosing unconditional love.
September 8, 2020
I had the privilege of getting an ARC copy and I'm so thankful I did!!!! Let me tell you when I say I bawled I literally mean BAWLED!!! Jed has been one of my favorite characters from the start and I absolutely LOVE getting to read more in-depth if him and his story and his path to God and his new beginning! Until We All Run Free is such a beautiful, heartwarming, and enticing book! Full of love, family, faith, but not with our their fair share of trials, heartbreak, grief, and accidents. I could NOT put this book down!
September 11, 2020
I couldn’t wait to get my hands on more of Jed Young’s story! Heather Wood kept me guessing and challenged my predictions in all the best ways. She never takes the easy way out when it comes to faith and truly weaves authentic spiritual truths into her stories. I loved every minute of this book!
October 28, 2020
3.5 stars.
I may or may not review since I kinda loved these books but I read them for amusement not to review. I may come back to them...
I may or may not review since I kinda loved these books but I read them for amusement not to review. I may come back to them...
February 18, 2023
I love this book! Engaging storyline, well written, and encouraging messages of faith in Jesus.
September 30, 2020
I was so looking forward to reading this after reading Until We All find Home! I loved getting to follow Jed’s story—I had all the emotions! I laughed out loud, nearly cried, got so frustrated (but in a good way;D) and the ending was so satisfying! Loved this story!
April 19, 2022
Perfect second book! Please write more! I want to know more! ❤️ thank you Heather for writing such a good God glorifying book! I’m going to be rereading them over and over again! I can’t wait to share them with everyone!! Just do yourselves a favor and buy both books when you start! 👏👏
April 21, 2026
My Favorite Book!
Wow! What an amazing story of Gods redeeming love and power to heal broken people and broken lives. This is my new favorite author! Thank you for putting so much of your heart and Gods heart into your stories . Such depth of eternal truth woven throughout these characters story. I’ve never copied and pasted more lines from a book of fiction before. This book is a great example of how a person, Heather Wood, gave her talents to God for Him to use and she wove His word and ways and Truth into a beautiful, masterpiece! May God get all the Glory! Thank you for rejecting the fluff and stuff of what passes as Christian fiction these days and telling a story with eternal value! May God bless you for your faithfulness!
Wow! What an amazing story of Gods redeeming love and power to heal broken people and broken lives. This is my new favorite author! Thank you for putting so much of your heart and Gods heart into your stories . Such depth of eternal truth woven throughout these characters story. I’ve never copied and pasted more lines from a book of fiction before. This book is a great example of how a person, Heather Wood, gave her talents to God for Him to use and she wove His word and ways and Truth into a beautiful, masterpiece! May God get all the Glory! Thank you for rejecting the fluff and stuff of what passes as Christian fiction these days and telling a story with eternal value! May God bless you for your faithfulness!
March 7, 2024
Oh this story! Jed and Mary kept me up way too late more than one night, but so worth it. I loved seeing the Young family growing and changing, love the depth of insight on faith and fear and trust, loved watching the transformation of brotherhood between Jed and Jack, and absolutely loved Jed and Mary's journey. It's a must read recommendation from me!
March 13, 2025
Until We All Run Free by Heather Wood is the second book in the Finding Home series. It is a historical Christian fiction romance with a solid theological message. I did not want to put it down it was SO. GOOD. 👏
What I really liked was the theme of learning to be free of the past and how that was predominantly illustrated around marriage. I liked how the author demonstrated that accepting Jesus as your Savior is not an instant fix and that healing takes time as we grow in our faith. I can attest to that.
The story reminded me of my own marriage as we learned to work through difficulties in our pasts, only we were not as well versed in scripture as the characters in this book! but God was gracious to us and I can say unequivocally that without Him we wouldn’t have made it.
I highly recommend this book both for the well-written story and for what you will learn about marriage. It’s real and it’s beautiful.
What I really liked was the theme of learning to be free of the past and how that was predominantly illustrated around marriage. I liked how the author demonstrated that accepting Jesus as your Savior is not an instant fix and that healing takes time as we grow in our faith. I can attest to that.
The story reminded me of my own marriage as we learned to work through difficulties in our pasts, only we were not as well versed in scripture as the characters in this book! but God was gracious to us and I can say unequivocally that without Him we wouldn’t have made it.
I highly recommend this book both for the well-written story and for what you will learn about marriage. It’s real and it’s beautiful.
September 19, 2020
Until We All Run Free is a Christian novel that's delightful, intriguing, and fun. Author Heather Wood dives right into themes of sin, grace, and freedom in Christ as her characters work out their salvation in their friendships, marriages, relationships with in-laws, and extended family dynamics. You'll be on the edge of your seat as you watch Jed heal from childhood trauma and walk in newness of life. You'll hurt with Kellie as she navigates the call to love her neighbor in the form of a difficult mother-in-law. You'll rejoice with Jack as he submits his heart's desires to God's sovereignty and starts to experience the goodness of trusting "thy will be done". The thought-provoking depth in this novel lies the author's evident maturity in Christ, and the sweetness in it from her desire for the glory of God.
September 25, 2020
I had the privilege of beta reading this beautiful story a couple of months ago. I very much enjoyed getting to know Jed, Jack and the rest of the Young and Dinsmore families. As the story unfolded I found myself laughing at their antics, shouting at them in their frustrating moments “Just give that poor man a break, Mary!” 🤣, but more than anything, I found myself rooting for them fiercely. This is a story set just after the Civil War and is filled with deep biblical truths. Heather’s attention to detail and commitment to staying true to the time period is impressive. Her characters are real, flawed and so relatable. Their journeys resonated with me in a way I will not forget. I am looking forward to going back to the first book in this series titled, “Until We All Find Home”, so I can gain a deeper understanding of these character’s earlier journeys.
November 4, 2020
This book was so beautiful! I didn't want it to end. Heather did such a great job of drawing me into the character's lives and keeping me interested throughout the entire story. I always love marriage of convenience stories and I really enjoyed this one. The characters are each so different from each other. They are unique, loveable, interesting, and fun to follow.
I also like Heather's writing style. She did an amazing job with this book and I can't wait to read what she writes next.
.
*I received a free copy from the author in exchange for a review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own*
.
I also like Heather's writing style. She did an amazing job with this book and I can't wait to read what she writes next.
.
*I received a free copy from the author in exchange for a review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own*
.
September 18, 2020
I’m not great at writing reviews, because I read the book for the enjoyment of the story and have trouble remembering to be objective! :) Several times I found myself skimming, trying to rush ahead of the characters and find out the end, so I have gotten to reread several pages, haha! It was a pleasure to follow the Young Siblings, and especially Jed and Jack, and continue their tale of faith and reliance on the Lord when life doesn’t make sense.
July 10, 2023
Love this family!
I haven't read the other books in the series, but this one grabbed me. Thankful to the author for her sincerity and willingness to tackle the uncomfortable topics of marriage, love, and family. It makes the characters more real, and more like us.
I haven't read the other books in the series, but this one grabbed me. Thankful to the author for her sincerity and willingness to tackle the uncomfortable topics of marriage, love, and family. It makes the characters more real, and more like us.
November 12, 2020
Until We All Run Free is delightful!
I didn’t know anything going into it, so I didn’t realize that UWARF would be mostly focused on one of the siblings (Jed) from Book 1, and the other siblings would be secondary characters. Jed was certainly not my favorite from Book 1, so I really appreciated going deeper into his story and seeing his journey and progression, especially in his faith and in his relationships.
Heather does a fantastic job of writing complicated characters and their real struggles. We see that in Jed’s story of course, but we also see that in Kellie in always serving others, to the detriment of her own health (enneagram 2 much?), in Jack (poor Jack in the beginning!), and in Mary, among others, of course.
Heather’s writing is gorgeous, and I really felt that the setting was so strong - both in the “Manse” when family is all together and there is so much expectation and joy (and yummy pies from Justin), and in Wisconsin, in the cozy cabin, full of little girls, and the awkwardness of sharing a space with someone you’re just getting to know.
Of course, where Heather’s writing really shines, is in her writing about faith, and God’s goodness and faithfulness to the characters. She cares deeply about good theology, and when you read her writing, you realize that you never have to doubt that the writing is biblically-based and really solid.
I didn’t know anything going into it, so I didn’t realize that UWARF would be mostly focused on one of the siblings (Jed) from Book 1, and the other siblings would be secondary characters. Jed was certainly not my favorite from Book 1, so I really appreciated going deeper into his story and seeing his journey and progression, especially in his faith and in his relationships.
Heather does a fantastic job of writing complicated characters and their real struggles. We see that in Jed’s story of course, but we also see that in Kellie in always serving others, to the detriment of her own health (enneagram 2 much?), in Jack (poor Jack in the beginning!), and in Mary, among others, of course.
Heather’s writing is gorgeous, and I really felt that the setting was so strong - both in the “Manse” when family is all together and there is so much expectation and joy (and yummy pies from Justin), and in Wisconsin, in the cozy cabin, full of little girls, and the awkwardness of sharing a space with someone you’re just getting to know.
Of course, where Heather’s writing really shines, is in her writing about faith, and God’s goodness and faithfulness to the characters. She cares deeply about good theology, and when you read her writing, you realize that you never have to doubt that the writing is biblically-based and really solid.
Read
November 11, 2020The author draws you in from the very first page, and it's hard to put the book down the further into the story and lives of the characters you go. The characters are so real, so flawed, seeking to follow God with everything in them - but each in their own, different way. I learned different things from each of them, and grew with them in their journeys.
Heather has an amazing knowledge of and accuracy of details of the era of the book (post Civil War), and that alone is a learning experience for me. The storylines of the characters' lives, the events and the settings and the language is all drawn so accurately from that time.
If you want to just get lost in a story, that you can't put down and can't wait to see what happens, this is a perfect book for that. Maybe it's not that was because it's super exciting and suspenseful and action packed; but because you care, because the characters are your friends who you care deeply what happens to them, and because you are on their life journey alongside them.
Heather has an amazing knowledge of and accuracy of details of the era of the book (post Civil War), and that alone is a learning experience for me. The storylines of the characters' lives, the events and the settings and the language is all drawn so accurately from that time.
If you want to just get lost in a story, that you can't put down and can't wait to see what happens, this is a perfect book for that. Maybe it's not that was because it's super exciting and suspenseful and action packed; but because you care, because the characters are your friends who you care deeply what happens to them, and because you are on their life journey alongside them.
July 5, 2022
Until We All Run Free gives the reader a closer look into the thoughts, personalities, struggles, and complexities of Jed and Jack, two characters we met in the first book of the series (Until We All Find Home). Now I'm ready for 3-4 more books to give me the deeper scoop on the other family members and characters from the first book!! There are so many interesting characters that the story feels like it could go on into so many different and interesting directions. The author does a stellar job of weaving these characters' lives together. As I read, it was a pleasure to stop and notice how the different characters' lives were intersecting and influencing one another, and sometimes in unexpected ways. As I followed the characters and how they leaned into their faith to get through their toughest challenges, I found myself learning alongside them. These characters hunger for holiness, amidst their imperfections, and I love to surround myself with that. Now I want to read Pick and Elisan's story next, please!! And I'm ready for more Reverend Dinsmore, too!
October 22, 2020
Are you looking for an uplifting historical adventure set the the late 1800's? Heather Wood's storytelling skills shine in Until We All Run Free. This page-turner holds many unexpected plot twists in her powerful continuation of Until We All Find Home, Volume I of the series. I was immediately immersed in the time and place of the dramatic events surrounding the Young Family in the sequel to Volume 1. I found myself rooting for the memorable characters to stand firm in the face of fears and remain loyal when their faith was put to the test. I highly recommend this beatifully written novel that teaches us about God's mercy, redemption, and rejoicing.
I received a promotional copy of this book.
I received a promotional copy of this book.
October 27, 2020
Loved this book - I could not put it down. I lived getting reconnect with all of the characters from Until We All Find Home. Seeing where they are in life & how well they are doing was so fun. Esp. the end - no spoilers - but it was perfect.
Jeb and Mary's story was such a beautiful picture of God's love, redemption and healing. Seeing God work in both Jed and Jack's lives was beautiful and encouraging for myself.
I love how real this book was & that there was a many turns and twists that I totally did NOT see coming! That always makes a book!
Jeb and Mary's story was such a beautiful picture of God's love, redemption and healing. Seeing God work in both Jed and Jack's lives was beautiful and encouraging for myself.
I love how real this book was & that there was a many turns and twists that I totally did NOT see coming! That always makes a book!
December 18, 2020
After I read the first book, my first thought was "I want to read more about Jed!" Well, this book delivers... But you'll still get to involve yourself in the other Youngs' lives, as well. I also love that a lot of this story takes place in Wisconsin. Overall a great Christian romance novel.
January 5, 2021
I truly enjoyed this book and the need to keep reading because of the enthralling content. The message alone is beautiful and helped me understand some stuff I struggle daily. I highly recommend reading it!
June 5, 2023
*review from 2021. (Yes, it took me 2 years to get around to posting this.)
--
There was a decent chunk of time while reading this book that I thought it would get a resounding 5+ stars from me. Then I hit a plot scenario I'm really not a fan of, and decided that would probably bring my rating down to 4 stars. Until I reached a certain point toward the end where I felt that I could give it 2 stars - at the most.
And now I'm confused as to WHAT to think. So I'll leave off giving it any rating for now. [Edit: I have decided on a middle ground of 3 stars. ;)]
So first off, why the resounding 5 stars?
Because, goodness, I ADORE this cast of many amazing, colorful characters. I'm half convinced that they're real and my old friends.
I love their world and simply hanging out with them page after page in this long novel.
Because yes, THE SETTING.
The historical aspect felt so real and authentic. I don't always see historical fiction pulled off this well ... it's like the difference between a historical film where the girls are wearing modern make-up with their hair down and curled compared to a film where the director took pains to make all the costumes and props as historically accurate as possible. And this book felt - to me - more like the latter.
A huge thing I appreciate is how the author doesn't insert herself into the narrative, politically speaking. This was a big thing I remember standing out to me from the first book in the series, Until We All Find Home, and I was pleased to see that carry on in this book.
In this book, there are characters who are staunch Union supporters and are proud to vote for Grant as president. There are others who fought on the Confederate side of the war and aren't ashamed of it, either. And I feel like both perspectives are portrayed honestly and respectfully without the author stepping in and letting us know what her perspective is.
(Actually, this part of the review probably belongs more rightfully to Until We All Find Home since that book actually took place during the war and these thoughts are just a run-off from my thoughts from the first book.)
The final - and possibly the biggest - reason I loved this book was the spiritual content woven into the very fibers of the story. If you took Jesus out of the picture, there wouldn't be much left to the story. And the remaining ruble would be pretty lame.
And that's not to say that this book was nothing but one long sermon - not at all! It's just a story about imperfect humans who need Jesus every day of their lives. And the Holy Spirit dwelling within them affects their decisions and shapes them into the people they become throughout the course of the book.
I guess it's a lot like real life. As Christians, knowing Jesus is a huge part of our identity and influences every aspect of our lives. It's not simply an accessory we wear on our sleeve (or at least, it shouldn't be).
I found this book refreshing and beautiful in that regard, and I think we could use more fiction novels where Jesus plays an important role in the story.
Okay, wow, I didn't realize all that was going to get so long. But do you see why I wanted to rate this 5 stars?? There's so much I loved about this book. And I could have gone on a lot longer ... I didn't even get down to individual characters! (Kellieeeeee. Jed! And Jack. I love the Young siblings, okay??)
Moving on to the 4-star part:
A character, Jed, marries a recently widowed mother of three young daughters. And I just ... am not a fan of the marry-the-recently-widowed trope. But even though it ended up taking up a large chunk of the book, it wasn't as bad as it could have been, and there were a few aspects I liked. For example, I loved Jed's relationship with his three stepdaughters - it was the sweetest.
For my 2-star rating:
*squirms* Yeah, so ... there were just enough references to what married couples do in bed to make me a bit ... uncomfortable. At first, it was okay, but then it ended up playing more of a role in the story than is my preference. (It was all handled in a godly manner, but still.)
There's also a fair amount of kissing toward the end of the book when (spoiler!) the main couple finally grow closer together in their marriage and realize they love each other.
Bleh. Bleh, bleh, bleh. ( < My reaction to too much physical affection in books, LOL. I mean, it's sweet, I guess, but I'd rather not be privy to all the kissing. :P)
In summary, there were aspects of this book that I loved, but as the story progressed, it introduced tropes that tainted my overall enjoyment of the book.
--
There was a decent chunk of time while reading this book that I thought it would get a resounding 5+ stars from me. Then I hit a plot scenario I'm really not a fan of, and decided that would probably bring my rating down to 4 stars. Until I reached a certain point toward the end where I felt that I could give it 2 stars - at the most.
And now I'm confused as to WHAT to think. So I'll leave off giving it any rating for now. [Edit: I have decided on a middle ground of 3 stars. ;)]
So first off, why the resounding 5 stars?
Because, goodness, I ADORE this cast of many amazing, colorful characters. I'm half convinced that they're real and my old friends.
I love their world and simply hanging out with them page after page in this long novel.
Because yes, THE SETTING.
The historical aspect felt so real and authentic. I don't always see historical fiction pulled off this well ... it's like the difference between a historical film where the girls are wearing modern make-up with their hair down and curled compared to a film where the director took pains to make all the costumes and props as historically accurate as possible. And this book felt - to me - more like the latter.
A huge thing I appreciate is how the author doesn't insert herself into the narrative, politically speaking. This was a big thing I remember standing out to me from the first book in the series, Until We All Find Home, and I was pleased to see that carry on in this book.
In this book, there are characters who are staunch Union supporters and are proud to vote for Grant as president. There are others who fought on the Confederate side of the war and aren't ashamed of it, either. And I feel like both perspectives are portrayed honestly and respectfully without the author stepping in and letting us know what her perspective is.
(Actually, this part of the review probably belongs more rightfully to Until We All Find Home since that book actually took place during the war and these thoughts are just a run-off from my thoughts from the first book.)
The final - and possibly the biggest - reason I loved this book was the spiritual content woven into the very fibers of the story. If you took Jesus out of the picture, there wouldn't be much left to the story. And the remaining ruble would be pretty lame.
And that's not to say that this book was nothing but one long sermon - not at all! It's just a story about imperfect humans who need Jesus every day of their lives. And the Holy Spirit dwelling within them affects their decisions and shapes them into the people they become throughout the course of the book.
I guess it's a lot like real life. As Christians, knowing Jesus is a huge part of our identity and influences every aspect of our lives. It's not simply an accessory we wear on our sleeve (or at least, it shouldn't be).
I found this book refreshing and beautiful in that regard, and I think we could use more fiction novels where Jesus plays an important role in the story.
Okay, wow, I didn't realize all that was going to get so long. But do you see why I wanted to rate this 5 stars?? There's so much I loved about this book. And I could have gone on a lot longer ... I didn't even get down to individual characters! (Kellieeeeee. Jed! And Jack. I love the Young siblings, okay??)
Moving on to the 4-star part:
A character, Jed, marries a recently widowed mother of three young daughters. And I just ... am not a fan of the marry-the-recently-widowed trope. But even though it ended up taking up a large chunk of the book, it wasn't as bad as it could have been, and there were a few aspects I liked. For example, I loved Jed's relationship with his three stepdaughters - it was the sweetest.
For my 2-star rating:
*squirms* Yeah, so ... there were just enough references to what married couples do in bed to make me a bit ... uncomfortable. At first, it was okay, but then it ended up playing more of a role in the story than is my preference. (It was all handled in a godly manner, but still.)
There's also a fair amount of kissing toward the end of the book when (spoiler!) the main couple finally grow closer together in their marriage and realize they love each other.
Bleh. Bleh, bleh, bleh. ( < My reaction to too much physical affection in books, LOL. I mean, it's sweet, I guess, but I'd rather not be privy to all the kissing. :P)
In summary, there were aspects of this book that I loved, but as the story progressed, it introduced tropes that tainted my overall enjoyment of the book.
April 23, 2022
Heather Wood writes such rich, beautiful, truth filled stories, and I stand amazed once more at her words.
I don’t know how to describe Woods' writing style, but she definitely isn’t amateur. She writes in a way that pulls you into the story and connects you with the characters and their lives. The plot itself is so intriguing. But not so fast paced and or intense that it would keep the reader in anxiety or stress. However, it was enough to keep me turning page after page and reading long enough to give myself an extreme eye/headache at one point.
I loved getting to know these brothers and sisters better and I love that this one focused mostly on Jed because, yes, he is my favorite. Maybe it's the simple fact that he is an introvert, but I just get him. I understand the feeling of wanting to hide from the crowd and find a peaceful quiet place to be. I also loved his sense of humor. It came out at the most random moments and almost as if it came by surprise himself. Like the whole Jed and Ted thing. So cute! And the whole way he ends up with Mary just makes sense and is so Jed.
But I also really enjoyed getting to know Kellie more. Some of the struggles she faced connected with me so much in this season of life I’m in right now, though I think she handles things with so much more grace than I do. Does anyone else think Kellie reminded you a little bit of Elsie Dinsmore with the way everyone comes to her for advice, help, or for just a listening ear? I don't know, but that was just a random observation of mine.
The struggles the various characters faced throughout the story are just so real and the way Heather Wood weaves so much truth, gospel, and hope throughout was so encouraging to me. I haven’t read a Christian fiction book with this much encouragement in a long time (or perhaps ever). Heather Wood doesn’t shy away from discussing hard sticky topics, but with so much grace and tact. So yes, some of the stuff discussed in this book might make some unmarried women uncomfortable, but honestly, I think Heather does such a good job of writing it in a way that it never got overly uncomfortable. There were a couple passionate kisses, but many of the topics discussed in this book were just really well handled and needed.
If you are looking for solid historical fiction, I definitely recommend Heather Woods books. She writes real characters with real problems, but always gives them a real solution, that of hope only through Jesus Christ and His work on the cross. This is the exact kind of fiction we need more of.
I don’t know how to describe Woods' writing style, but she definitely isn’t amateur. She writes in a way that pulls you into the story and connects you with the characters and their lives. The plot itself is so intriguing. But not so fast paced and or intense that it would keep the reader in anxiety or stress. However, it was enough to keep me turning page after page and reading long enough to give myself an extreme eye/headache at one point.
I loved getting to know these brothers and sisters better and I love that this one focused mostly on Jed because, yes, he is my favorite. Maybe it's the simple fact that he is an introvert, but I just get him. I understand the feeling of wanting to hide from the crowd and find a peaceful quiet place to be. I also loved his sense of humor. It came out at the most random moments and almost as if it came by surprise himself. Like the whole Jed and Ted thing. So cute! And the whole way he ends up with Mary just makes sense and is so Jed.
But I also really enjoyed getting to know Kellie more. Some of the struggles she faced connected with me so much in this season of life I’m in right now, though I think she handles things with so much more grace than I do. Does anyone else think Kellie reminded you a little bit of Elsie Dinsmore with the way everyone comes to her for advice, help, or for just a listening ear? I don't know, but that was just a random observation of mine.
The struggles the various characters faced throughout the story are just so real and the way Heather Wood weaves so much truth, gospel, and hope throughout was so encouraging to me. I haven’t read a Christian fiction book with this much encouragement in a long time (or perhaps ever). Heather Wood doesn’t shy away from discussing hard sticky topics, but with so much grace and tact. So yes, some of the stuff discussed in this book might make some unmarried women uncomfortable, but honestly, I think Heather does such a good job of writing it in a way that it never got overly uncomfortable. There were a couple passionate kisses, but many of the topics discussed in this book were just really well handled and needed.
If you are looking for solid historical fiction, I definitely recommend Heather Woods books. She writes real characters with real problems, but always gives them a real solution, that of hope only through Jesus Christ and His work on the cross. This is the exact kind of fiction we need more of.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews