When the Heart Heals: A Novel

Sisters at Heart #2

by Ann Shorey

Courageous and unconventional, Rosemary Saxon served as a nurse during the Civil War, a service that has caused most women in town to regard her as unfeminine and downright vulgar. Although she would like to put her experiences as a nurse behind her, she must support herself. She takes a position with Dr. Elijah Stewart and a mutual attraction begins to develop. But when a sophisticated woman arrives in town claiming to be Elijah's fiancEe, a heartbroken Rosemary decides to leave Noble Springs and start fresh. Can Elijah convince her of the mystery woman's deception before he loses her forever?

With tenderness and grace, Ann Shorey invites readers back to the town of Noble Springs, Missouri, for an engrossing story of love's tentative first steps and fragile future in the face of opposition. Readers will find in Rosemary a sympathetic but strong woman determined to thrive in a world that doesn't always understand.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Christian, Christian Historical Fiction, Historical Romance

352 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merciful to wounded Civil War soldiers, Rosemary Saxon became a nurse. Considered a filthy and disgusting job, unfit for a woman, Rosemary was ousted from her home. Her compassion compelled her to help others in need, in spite of her own limited resources. After the war she had moved to Noble Springs, Missouri where she eventually sought employment with Dr. Elijah Stewart who had set up practice in the small town after the Civil War. Refusing to join his father's medical practice in Chicago, Dr. Stewart's aim was to distance himself from his father's demands. Elijah's medical standards were scrupulous and honorable, contrary to his father's unethical standards.

Threatened by a local menace for preparing herbal remedies only substantiated Rosemary's stubborn and independent nature, but potential suitors repeatedly came to her aid. Attracted to Dr. Stewart, Rosemary had to quell a relationship developing with another local gentleman. Her hopes for love and family appear to be just a dream, but is there hope for happiness in her future?

Family dynamics play a key role throughout this novel. Broken relationships and misunderstandings between family members are broached with inventive and creative skill. The characters throughout this novel are colorful, realistic, down-to-earth humans who struggle with emotional conflicts and physical assaults that are common to all of us. Faith is a strong motivator throughout this novel, and enhances the story very effectively. The physical details are picturesque and beautifully depicted with vivid imagery. Ann Shorey has written a very touching, absorbing and remarkable story. This is a very entertaining, heartrending and eloquently scripted novel!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through BookFun.org in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. Many thanks to Fred St. Laurent and Revell Books for their participation in the For Readers Only program through BookFun.org.

[Barbara Shelton · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Heart Heals is my first introduction to Ann Shorey's writing. What a writer! Historical fiction is at the top of my reading joy, and Ann didn’t disappoint in authoring such a realistic story of the times after the Civil War. One fact that struck me odd, because I wasn’t aware of it before, was the disdain toward women nurses. Funny, but all my life, I’ve been accustomed to woman nurses, and thought it unusual when more males began to choose nursing as a career. Only a comment on my part…not a complaint.

The nature of Rosemary Saxon wasn’t revealed all at once, her story is complex with personal history of her and her brother Curt being estranged from their parents because of the division of beliefs about whose side was right during the Civil War. We learn early that Rosemary had been extremely capable as a nurse to injured Union soldiers at Jefferson Barracks. She met and worked briefly with Dr. Elijah Stewart during this time, and developed a secret attraction for him.

Rosemary moved to Noble Springs, Missouri in 1867 to live with her brother Curt Saxon who had married her best friend, Faith. This being the second novel in Sisters at Heart Series, I was at a disadvantage of not knowing many of the overlapping details from “Where Wildflowers Bloom.” Ann Shorey didn’t leave the reader in the dark with prior details – they fell naturally in place during the story. Rosemary insisted on moving into her own home to live independently and hoped to find work to sustain her financially. Ms Shorey has an admirable talent of throwing intriguing hooks of mystery into the story to keep your interest alert. Rosemary is a knowledgeable herbalist, which caused suspicious and dim witted townspeople to label her a witch.

Dr. Elijah Stewart appears again when he moves to Noble Springs to set up his medical practice. Rosemary applies for a nursing position there, and Elijah has little faith in her as a nurse but hires her for a brief time to see how things work out. He doesn’t like her herbal medicinal practices or the fact that she becomes personally involved with his patients. Their romantic feelings toward each other developed slowly, much to Rosemary’s chagrin. Rosemary has another suitor Jacob, who was a fine man, however complicated Rosemary’s desire to develop her love interest in Elijah.

All the characters in this story are well developed and believable. At times, I did become irritated at Rosemary’s stubbornness even though it made for a better story. My favorite character, Bodie the dog, was comical, loyal, and lovable. Actually, there were several interesting stories developing constantly that interacted lively and heartwarmingly throughout. Ann Shorey has written a wonderful story of healing and forgiveness that will bless you for a long time after closing the book. Her fascinating characters and the many mysteries about what has happened in the past to cause the pain in Rosemary and Elijah’s past are revealed. They are two individuals that came from diverse background and experience the same emotions. Thank you Ann Shorey for a fine writing and an excellent enjoyable read. All the prayers were answered and I’m sure God is smiling on Noble Springs, Missouri.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this to be a compelling page turning fast read. Once I started, I couldn't put it down.
After the Civil War Rosemary Saxon is looking for a way to earn a living. All she really knows is nursing, and I for one never knew they were so looked down at. Evidently, people though a Lady should never see or clean a mans body. Oh well, she is now getting desperate. So she takes a chance and asks the new Dr in town for a job.
Dr Elijah Stewart, has decided to settle in Noble Springs, MO, and is now setting up his practice. He is horrible at keeping the books, so when out spoken, Rosemary asks for employment...yes!
Rosemary has always been interested in healing the natural way. Soon she and the Dr do start butting heads. Rosemary gives advice at the Dr's office, he feels she is giving medical advice, and it will be against him if something goes wrong.
I loved the interaction with Rosemary and her beloved dog, Bodie. Also some of the other Characters in this book are so heartwarming and love the Lord. One is Jacob West, he is developing feelings for Rosemary, but goes out of his way to help her.
This story is going to get your attention, with the notes, violence, and things that do go boom in the night! Through it all their faith seems to carry them.
The only problem I had was the ending went very quickly, some of it you will be surprised by, and others I had figured out before.

I received this book through Revell's Blogging Program, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: WHEN THE HEART HEALS
Author: Ann Shorey
Publisher: Revell
February 2013
ISBN: 978-0800720735
Genre: Historical

In a country healing from war, can a young woman find healing for her heart?

Courageous and unconventional, Rosemary Saxon served as a nurse during the Civil War, a service that has caused most women in town to regard her as unfeminine and even downright vulgar. Although she would like to put that part of her life behind her, she needs to support herself.

Rosemary takes a nursing position with Dr. Elijah Stewart, but whenever they are together they always seem to do or say the wrong things. When someone threatens Rosemary, will she find the courage to stand, or will she leave town--and Elijah--forever?

WHEN THE HEART HEALS is the second book in Ms. Shorey’s Sisters at Heart series. Readers will want to read the first book Where Wildflowers Bloom first just to find out the beginning of the story, but you can read this one if you haven’t read the other.

Ms. Shorey’s style is rich in detail, and there is a touch of suspense in this one, making it intriguing as well as a romance. One couldn’t help but wonder what “Witches’ brew” Rosemary is cooking up, and why… as well as care about what happens between her and Elijah.

Fans of historical fiction will want to read WHEN THE HEART HEALS. Don’t miss this intriguing romance. $14.99. 352 pages.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in Ann Shorey's Sisters at Heart series. I was given the opportunity to receive this book for free and offer an honest opinion of the book. I love Christian romance books and the idea of a post civil war book with a heroine who is still a bit of an outcast because of her nursing skills falling for a handsome doctor, sounded like a book I definitely wanted to read.

I am so glad I did. I have not read book one in the series, but decided to give book two a try. I decided that if it was too hard to follow, I would just find book one and come back later. I am pleased to say that I did not have to do that. This book was so well written, that I was able to follow the story without any need to have read book one first. Now, having said that, I fully intend to read book one because I enjoyed book two so much.

The attraction between nurse and doctor was very believable and the scene where the doctor finally lets his feelings be known to Rosemary was wonderful. There are obstacles for them both to overcome in this novel, as well as misunderstandings to get cleared up. I look forward to reading book 1 and hope that there will be a book 3 in this series as well.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story! I love the way this author weaves various characters into each story so that you are familiar with the backgrounds. The characters and description of the times are authentic and interesting. I have read all her books now and wish there were more!!

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

When The Heart Heals by Ann Shorey

During the Civil War Rosemary Saxon served as a nurse, something that the women in town frowned on, seeing her as unfeminine and vulgar. Now she is living in Noble Springs, Missouri with her dog Bodie, trying to begin a new life. But nursing is the only thing she can do to support herself, so she seeks out the new doctor in town, Dr. Elijah Stewart, to work as his nurse. When she goes to his office to apply for a nursing position she finds that she knows Dr. Stewart. Dr. Stewart was one of the surgeons she assisted at Jefferson Barracks during her first weeks as a nurse during the war before he was called to the front lines.

As Rosemary and Dr. Stewart begin working together to care for the citizens of Noble Springs, they often disagree with how to treat the patients. Rosemary freely offers herbal remedies for the patients for which Dr. Stewart reminds her that he is the doctor and not to interfere with the treatments of his patients, especially not to offer them her herbal cures. They often have heated words about it but still they are drawn to each other.

Rosemary begins to receive threatening notes, her herb garden is trashed, green house broken into and she is attacked. She finally goes to the sheriff to report the notes and destruction of her gardens. Her brother, Curt and his wife Faith want Rosemary to move in with them while the sheriff investigates to keep her safe. But Rosemary refuses, she wants to be independent. Elijah even joins the sheriff in his investigation of the threats to Rosemary.

However, Elijah has troubles of his own. Using less than honorable tactics, Elijah’s father schemes to get him to come back home and take over his practice; something Elijah does not want to do.

~~my review~~
The main character, Rosemary captured my attention from the start. I love the way she goes out of her way to help those who are in need of medical treatment-her herbs, or a place to live until they can figure out what they should do even though she herself has only enough funds to feed or clothe herself. She learns to rely on God to help and guide her each day, but also how to forgive and the restoration of loved ones.

Being a nurse, I found post Civil War medicine very interesting, how women had to step forward to help in the hospitals for the soldiers during the war and how society looked at them as unfeminine or vulgar women.

From the first page to the last, the story captured me and held me to the end. The characters are realistic in their struggles to survive and I like that many of the characters I learned to love in the first book, Where Wildflowers Bloom, are woven through this book as well. It offers romance, suspense/mystery, secrets, a good glimpse of history, forgiveness, restoration, surprises and so much more.


*I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Book Club Network... I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A son and daughter born of a Southern mother return from serving with the Union Army during the Civil War, are shunned by their parents and must make their own way. They move a few hours from St. Louis, Missouri to Noble Springs. The second book of the Sisters at Heart series picks up after Rosemary Saxon’s brother Curt has married and moved to his wife’s home, leaving Rosemary alone in the small house. Rosemary may be on her way to spinsterhood, but she values her independence above all else. In an era where women are expected to work at home, or in gentle pursuits, perhaps with a family business, Rosemary can offer the only work she truly knows, that of nursing wounded soldiers, and preparing herbal remedies from her mother’s recipe files.


With Curt gone and a new doctor in town, Rosemary puts on her courage and visits Elijah Stewart, a doctor she’d worked with only a few weeks in St. Louis before he’d been shipped out to the front. He doesn’t remember her at first, but is convinced having a nurse involved in his practice is wholly unnecessary. Until he thinks about it, and decides perhaps someone like Rosemary in the office, greeting patients, keeping records and tidying up the place would work in their favor, never mind the fact that they’re attracted to one another. When he learns Rosemary takes in stray people, and has been mixing up and dishing out herbal remedies, he is naturally on his guard and disapproving, again, until he thinks about it.


Several issues hamper this couple’s courtship, including potential love interests on both sides who wreak havoc with everyone’s emotions, along with a mysterious stalker and vandal who accuses Rosemary of awful things, and Elijah’s father who would rather have his son in Chicago.


Shorey’s characters are unconventional, certainly; Rosemary teeters on the likeable scale, even after we get to know her. The author reminds readers people are people, and not always sweet and even-tempered and romantic. Noble Springs feels like a cozy community, but peopled with fallible souls who are quick to listen to gossip. Love triangles that don’t go anywhere, and a main character who is as quick to judge as the townspeople who hurt her don’t truly deflect from the story, which is, after all, about love and redemption. Rosemary learns forgiveness is a two-way street, and independence is good, but a soul mate to depend upon is better. Told from both Rosemary and Elijah’s viewpoints, the story is built across a number of entwining subplots of romance, mystery, and danger, the author leaves plenty of room to explore what’s sure to be another sequel.


“Available February 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

[Laura A. Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

"When the Heart Heals" is not what I had hoped it would be. For the first 50 pages I just couldn't seem to get into the story. I didn't feel that sudden pull where I couldn't put the book down until later, but I was still rather disappointed.

I am glad however that I stuck out and finished the book because overall the book was fairly good. I enjoyed Rosemary's character even though she completely frustrated me by not getting Cooper's help at first or listen to Elijah near the end! I just wanted to yell "WOMAN STOP BEING SO STUBBORN!" I'm glad that these things did work out though in the end!

Beside her being so stubborn, I love how she took a stand for people! I truly enjoyed Jolene and Galen! I'm glad that the author included them in Rosemary's story as well as Elijah! They were some interesting characters!

One of the things I thought was so interesting about this novel was how women viewed Rosemary for being a nurse! I did not realize that women seriously frowned upon this after the war and that it could greatly affect their social standing! I was also quite shocked about Elijah's dad and how he made such a profit in being a doctor (I don't want to say what it is he does because I don't want to spoil it)!

The main reason I gave this book an overall three stars is because the book seemed to be too slow in parts while jumping from scene to scene. In these parts I felt their wasn't enough dialogue, but then other parts where there was enough dialogue I felt the scene wasn't long enough! It could also be a little jumpy at times. I wanted their to be more to the overall description such as the intimate moments between Rosemary and Elijah because I felt it was slightly rushed and left me wanting more.

Overall a good novel with a little bit of suspense, history, and romance!

I received this book for free from Bookfun.org in exchanged for an honest review!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R22POXKC...
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...

When the Heart Heals is book two in the Sisters at Heart series and the second book I've read by Ann Shorey. Like Where Wildflowers Bloom, it was a really good read, but I have to say, I enjoyed book one a little more.

I liked Elijah's character a lot - he is my favorite character from When the Heart Heals. Rosemary was also very endearing and I found myself caring about what happened in her life - especially regarding the threats she received.

I loved how the main characters from Where Wildflowers Bloom also played major roles in When the Heart Heals - it was great getting updates on their lives. =)

One of the only complaints I had was the ending. It seemed a little rushed - like things wrapped up suddenly. This may only be me, but I wish things wouldn't have ended quite so soon.

Overall, I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading any future books in this series. I recommend it if you enjoy historical romance novels. You'll probably want to read book one first (so you'll know completely what had happened earlier in Rosemary's life and why she felt a certain way towards one of the characters) even though it's not completely necessary for you to enjoy this one. Good read!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

Available February 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

[Margaret Chind · Rating 3 out of 5]

Last January I started the Sisters of the Heart series from Ann Shorey with a delight and eagerly awaited the release of Rosemary's story. While I loved Rosemary and Elijah as characters some things in this book were not perfectly appealing to me. Although I could hardly put it down and had to keep reading to find out what was next. This one was a mystery as there was an angry bad guy lurking in the darkness. Part of me felt like he could have been left out of the entire story and I wouldn't have missed anything; he just didn't add to it. The only other thing that bugged me was how Rosemary was so quick to jump to non trusting at one point and then after continuous arguing and refusal to listen once when she hears the same thing she's heard before it's all forgiveness and kisses and the book ends. That was shocking and odd to me, it just quit.

I loved Where Wildflower's Bloom and really enjoy Ann Shorey's narratives and will definitely look for the third in this series and more of her titles to come in the future. This one just wasn't my favorite. Check out my uber positive review of Where Wildflower's Bloom, back here. http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...

*Thanks to Revell for providing a copy for review.*

“Available February 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

posted: creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2013/02/...

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

As much as the nursing profession is admired today, it's stunning to realize that has not always been the case. Rosemary's story both fascinated me and touched my heart as she endeavors to fallow her calling in spite of opposition that becomes more strident and dangerous as the book progresses. I loved visiting charming Noble Springs, Missouri in the first book in this series, Where Wildflowers Bloom, and I was eager to learn more about Rosemary and some of the other characters introduced in that first novel. While the novels are stand-alones and only connected by common characters, those characters are so charming that readers will be compelled to read the first book as well as this one! And although this is categorized as a historical romance, it's got a bit of mystery, suspense, and humor, as well--all the elements add up to make it a delightful read! I'm already looking forward to the third book in the series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Ann Shorey and from Revell as part of their Blogger Review program. 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."

[Carly · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Heart Heals is the best book I have read so far this year! I have always enjoyed Ann Shorey’s books, but this one was terrific. There was a lot to this story, but it all fit well together. There was romance, some suspense, historical details all in the charming setting I fell in love with in the first book in this series. I like books that could fit in more than one genre. It keeps me interested. There is certainly more romance than anything else in this book, but the other elements to the story make it feel more real and interesting.

I think I have said this before of Ann Shorey, but she is one of my favorite authors. I always know that I will thoroughly enjoy any book by her. From the first time I read one of her books, I knew I didn’t want to miss any. When the Heart Heals is the second book in the Sisters at Heart series and it has been a wonderful series. This book is better than the first book in the series, so I look forward to reading the third book. I am fascinated by the Civil War, especially those early years afterward as this great country heals from the pain and I feel that Ann did a great job researching that time in our history. Any reader can tell that this author is careful in the way she puts her stories together and that means a lot to this reader who reads a lot of novels.

[ASC Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story! I wanted to read this because I love to read books set around the civil war. Books along this time line, and this one to, are usually filled with healing and forgiveness. I love Rosemary because I can relate to her (with her dog and all LOL!). As she goes through the story she experiences rejection, persecution, pain, fear, love, deception, faith, hope, and kindness. Ann Shorey paints a wonderful picture. I loved learning a little bit more about certain herbs and what they help with. I wish it didn't end and kept going on. I want to read more about these characters and see how their lives progress! I was afraid when I reached the final pages that it would leave me hanging or end abruptly and leave me dissatisfied. But when you read an author like Ann Shorey you will not be disappointed. Up to the very last sentence she had me laughing and enjoying her work. A wonderful story written beautifully! I can't wait to read what happens next.

I chose these songs for When the Hear Heals: "Forgiveness" by Matthew West, "In the Garden" by Elvis Presley, "Steady My Heart" by Kari Jobe, "Safe in the Arms of Love" by Martina McBride, and "My Faith Looks Up To Thee" by Amy Marie

Matthew 6:34, Mark 11:26

~ASC

[Vickie McDonough · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small town Herbalist vs. Big City Doctor


At a time when women nurses were considered unseemly and vulgar, Rosemary Saxon perseveres in the career she feels called to. On top of that, some of the townsfolk have labeled her a charlatan because she grows herbs and makes teas and poultices to help the sick. When she applies for a job as a nurse with the new doctor in town, she quickly earns his ire by suggesting herbal remedies for his customers.
Both desire to see the sick healed, but is only one way right?

In spite of their differences, Rosemary is attracted to Dr. Stewart, but when they clash over and over, she begins to fear losing more than just her job. She may have lost her heart to the stubborn man.

When the Heart Heals is sure to snag your interest and keep you reading. Besides the delightful banter and confrontations between Rosemary and Elijah, there is the mystery of who is stalking Rosemary and wreaking havoc in her life. Add to that, Rosemary’s desire to help the undesirables and her charming sidekick Brodie, and you have a wonderful read that will keep you engaged to the end. Another great read from Ann Shorey!

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rosemary used to be a nurse in the war. Now that there is a new doctor in town, Rosemary is hoping that the new doctor will be open minded about having a female nurse.

Dr. Elijah Stewart wants to make a good first impression on the townsfolk. One person that Elijah keeps sticking his foot in his mouth is Rosemary.

I liked this book. Rosemary really stood out for me. She was strong but kind hearted. She fought hard for what she believed in and what she wanted. I did not warm up to Elijah in the beginning. I thought he came off mean towards Rosemary. Even his teasing was unkind. In fact I did not care for Elijah so much in the beginning that I really hoped that Rosemary would fall for Jacob instead. Although I knew how the story would end with Rosemary and Elijah falling in love with each other. Eventually I did warm up to Elijah. However as nice and sweet as the ending was I was not fully invested. Due to the way Elijah came off in the beginning. I do have to give a shout out to Rosemary’s dog, Brodie. He was a sweetheart.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know that satisfying ‘ah’ when you finish a good book? You get that when you turn the last page of When the Heart Heals. I found myself turning the pages slower and slower not wanting this engaging tale to end.

Shorey has written her best book ever with this one. Will she top it with the next one? I don’t know, but I’m sure I’ll preorder the book and find out.

This is a tale of a nurse no longer needed after the Civil War, nor is she looked upon with respect. It’s her struggle to find the respect and remain independent at time when the world has changed, but wants the women in it to remain who they were before the war.

Mystery, jealousy and misunderstandings are around every corner in Nobel Springs. You won’t be disappointed with this love story.

[Georgianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a well written story and from all of the high reviews, most readers seemingly loved it. I really wanted to read Rosemary's story after reading book 1. I think my problem is that Rosemary was so impulsive, jumped to conclusions, and took extreme measures before she ever listened to reason. I found this very frustrating, and the story far-fetched. Then in the end, everything suddenly came together and that was it. I'm sure we will learn more of Rosemary and Elijah in book 3, which is Cassie's story.

[Shelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked it, but not as well as the first one. I was excited to read Rosemary's story, but her stubbornness got in my way of falling in LOVE with her. It kind of has a Pride and Prejudice feel to the story.

[Lisa M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book #2 in the series follows Faith's sister-in-law Rosemary. I loved the scenes where she and the doctor went head to head over herbal medicine! And I KNEW who was attacking Rosemary nearly from the beginning--even though I had to wait until the very last few pages to see if I was right! LOL!

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the story of Rosemary as a nurse. She is a very determined woman and I liked how stood her ground. I didn't like her childish actions at the end though when she wouldn't listen to Elijah but I am glad it all turned out okay.

[Shawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was okay...good read, if not a little predictable.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

A beautifully written story, with characters who are struggling to follow their dreams. What a nice continuation of Ann Shorey's "Sisters at Heart" series!

[ette · Rating 2 out of 5]

like a hallmark movie in written form---what was I thinking?????

[Alina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actually 3.5 stars. Beautifully written story but the ending was rushed and I got annoyed by the heroine's stubborness

[Darla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rosemary, another mouthy, impetuous, selfish, impatient, and unforgiving heroin. Honestly, I don’t expect perfection, but I also don’t get into these characters that are so brash.

I loved the unconventional part. Really had no idea a nurse at that time would be demeaned the way she was. So many things though didn’t add up in this book.

She is barely getting by and not even purchasing meat, yet she can afford new locks and a train trip to St. Louis. While there, she has to pay for room and board. Maybe she was just frugal? That part I didn’t get. She has some money coming from her grandfather that even paid her housing. Hmmmm...

If I am engaged, and some woman comes to town w a supposed ring from my fiancé, claiming she is his fiancé... who would I believe? This strange woman I have never met, or the man I am getting ready to marry? I knew her running away would eventually lead to her parents - which was great. But this headstrong woman showed great weakness in running and turning tail at the first problem, especially with all she had gone through to become accepted there.

I did like and enjoy her love of herbs and how her mother had taught her so many medicinal uses. Love Dr. Elijah and his back story. Love Faith as the awesome friend! The overall story line was good and kept me reading. I really liked Rosemary in the last book. Why are the heroins in these books not likeable? I’m just not sure what it is. There is a way to make a heroin strong and likeable. I just can’t put my finger on it.

Still enjoyed the read! And all the thought and work that went into it.

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another sweet, yet a bit suspensful Historical Christian fiction book! I loved how the previous characters were developed more fully, and new ones added. I'm looking forward to the final installment! :)

[Angella Newsom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another win!

The second in this series and I wasn’t waiting for it to end. Thank goodness, there isn’t the heavy, dirty filth weighing down a good read!

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good easy read and good for the heart!

[Chere Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a nice read. Glad it turned out the way it did. (No spoilers here). I enjoy Anne's books and this was not a letdown. Good read.