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The Lady and the Loyalist
Miss Susan Bailey shouldn’t be enjoying beautiful sunsets over the Atlantic with a grumpy colonist. She swore not to marry while her mother lives. Her large dowry has given her lots of practice dodging potential suitors. But when her younger brother sets off on an adventure to the colonies she can’t stay put. Someone has to keep him out of trouble. Only she seems to be finding trouble of her own. Trouble with stormy gray eyes. Trouble…because marrying a Virginian is unthinkable. Especially in 1774.
Charles Johnson hasn’t been home in seven years, but an urgent message from his father insists he returns immediately. He books passage on a merchant vessel bound for Virginia carrying three other passengers, including the engaging and pragmatic Miss Bailey. Though determined to remain strangers, when he succumbs to seasickness he cannot refuse her assistance. Indeed, he soon cannot refuse her anything, not even the friendship she demands from him. After all, it’s foolish to hope for something more when their destinies are an ocean apart.
The Lady and the Loyalist is a Christian historical romance with no steam.
Charles Johnson hasn’t been home in seven years, but an urgent message from his father insists he returns immediately. He books passage on a merchant vessel bound for Virginia carrying three other passengers, including the engaging and pragmatic Miss Bailey. Though determined to remain strangers, when he succumbs to seasickness he cannot refuse her assistance. Indeed, he soon cannot refuse her anything, not even the friendship she demands from him. After all, it’s foolish to hope for something more when their destinies are an ocean apart.
The Lady and the Loyalist is a Christian historical romance with no steam.
460 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2024
33 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 7, 2024
4.5⭐️ What a well-written debut novel! I wasn’t sure what to expect of this story, but the Virginia setting—my home state—intrigued me. I was not disappointed!
I have been to Williamsburg numerous times and loved it. I kept envisioning the various buildings and places that Susan, William, and the other characters visited 🥰 The ship setting was equally interesting! I would not have wanted to make that long voyage 🤢 I get seasick so easily!
The Lady and the Loyalist also addresses the topic of slavery/indentured service in the late 1700s. Slavery isn’t too uncommon of a topic in fiction, but I knew less about indentured service. It was interesting (and burdening) to learn about what some of those men and women faced! This story was clearly well-researched and I loved all the historical references.
If you enjoy historical Christian fiction—especially if you’re looking for something during or surrounding the war for independence—, you’ll want to pickup this book❤️ The characters were relatable and likable, and the plot interesting. I eagerly look forward to the next installment to this series 😍
*I recieved an ARC copy of this book, and wasn’t required to give a review. All these thoughts and opinions are my own.*
I have been to Williamsburg numerous times and loved it. I kept envisioning the various buildings and places that Susan, William, and the other characters visited 🥰 The ship setting was equally interesting! I would not have wanted to make that long voyage 🤢 I get seasick so easily!
The Lady and the Loyalist also addresses the topic of slavery/indentured service in the late 1700s. Slavery isn’t too uncommon of a topic in fiction, but I knew less about indentured service. It was interesting (and burdening) to learn about what some of those men and women faced! This story was clearly well-researched and I loved all the historical references.
If you enjoy historical Christian fiction—especially if you’re looking for something during or surrounding the war for independence—, you’ll want to pickup this book❤️ The characters were relatable and likable, and the plot interesting. I eagerly look forward to the next installment to this series 😍
*I recieved an ARC copy of this book, and wasn’t required to give a review. All these thoughts and opinions are my own.*
October 3, 2024
Stephanie McRae weaves a lovely Colonial era story full of compassion and sweetness, even in a tumultuous time for many people in history. The witty banter and sprinkling of humor kept me laughing! Charles and Susan are unique and engaging, and the appearance of the couple from her novella was a cute nod. If you love sweet historical fiction with deep themes, you’ll find yourself delighted with this charming and thoughtful romance!
-I received an ebook copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
-I received an ebook copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2024
4.5 stars
This was a very interesting story. I loved all the historical details. We start off in England, then get on a ship where there is seasickness and stowaways. Then get to America. It’s 1774 and there is a lot happening. It was fun seeing everything. I really loved the main characters. I wished they would have gotten together sooner I felt so bad for him. Good Christian content. Overall this was a great story and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This was a very interesting story. I loved all the historical details. We start off in England, then get on a ship where there is seasickness and stowaways. Then get to America. It’s 1774 and there is a lot happening. It was fun seeing everything. I really loved the main characters. I wished they would have gotten together sooner I felt so bad for him. Good Christian content. Overall this was a great story and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 10, 2024
This historical romance, set in Colonial Virginia, was top-notch. The research is impeccable, and I learned so much about Colonial America on the brink of the Revolution.
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I loved every minute spent with Susan; she's the ideal Founding Mother, and I can't wait to see more of her in subsequent books (hint, hint).
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I had the best time reading this book. It has a depth to it that goes far beyond the romance.
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I received an ARC of this completed novel, although I read most of it on Kindle Vella a few months ago. I can't wait to get my paperback today; this is definitely a bookshelf book!
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I loved every minute spent with Susan; she's the ideal Founding Mother, and I can't wait to see more of her in subsequent books (hint, hint).
.
I had the best time reading this book. It has a depth to it that goes far beyond the romance.
.
I received an ARC of this completed novel, although I read most of it on Kindle Vella a few months ago. I can't wait to get my paperback today; this is definitely a bookshelf book!
July 5, 2025
I'm very excited to share this book with you. It's right in my wheelhouse, set during Colonial America. Stephanie McRae is a new-to-me author, but I will be reading more from her! The Lady and the Loyalist hooked me from the first page. The writing is clean and clear and drops you right into the setting. The characters are interesting and non-stereotypical. I was impressed! I think you will be too.
Read
July 12, 2025This is such a beautiful, well-written AmRev romance that immersed me in the 18th century from start to finish. Not all historical romances can do this effectively, so I was very impressed by how nothing ever felt modern or out of place. The characters are all charming (especially Emmeline -- she's completely adorable!), and I love how as the novel progresses, Susan and Charles' varying hindrances and insecurities compliment one another until (at long last!) they're able to find their happy ending. I was also pleasantly surprised by the beautiful intertwinement of faith, because I wasn't expecting that in this novel!
Since I'm honestly terrible at providing cohesive thoughts about what I love (I tend to get jumbled when I'm gushing!), I'll just list the highlights that I experienced while reading:
1) I loved how despite Charles' initial coldness, he was always warm with children, and clearly cared about the greater good. It helped Susan see early on that he was a good man.
2) Quite a few of Susan and Charles' initial interactions are echoed at the very end, so pay attention to those moments -- the way they pop up again are sweetly romantic!
3) Charles' love of whittling was a hobby I don't see too often, and I enjoyed how he made things for Susan to express his affection when words failed him (i.e. the rose, the dolphin, and the ginger heart).
4) The growing unrest in the town added a great tension to the backdrop of Susan and Charles' equally mounting tension.
5) That whole section with Charles and Quill guarding the Magazine was definitely one of my favorite moments. It added great suspense, and a touch of action that I found myself unable to stop reading.
6) The epilogue with Susan, Charles, and Kitty was very sweet! I felt so warm and full after reading that final line. It was one of those little "contented sigh" moments.
After reading McCrae's author's note, I do find it beautifully miraculous that God guided her to VA so that she would fall in love with the state, and then write this beautiful series. As a Virginian myself, I really enjoyed reading about some of the places I've been to over the years, and I'm grateful this book was recommended to me so that I could experience VA through the eyes of the past. I would definitely read more of McCrae's work!
Since I'm honestly terrible at providing cohesive thoughts about what I love (I tend to get jumbled when I'm gushing!), I'll just list the highlights that I experienced while reading:
1) I loved how despite Charles' initial coldness, he was always warm with children, and clearly cared about the greater good. It helped Susan see early on that he was a good man.
2) Quite a few of Susan and Charles' initial interactions are echoed at the very end, so pay attention to those moments -- the way they pop up again are sweetly romantic!
3) Charles' love of whittling was a hobby I don't see too often, and I enjoyed how he made things for Susan to express his affection when words failed him (i.e. the rose, the dolphin, and the ginger heart).
4) The growing unrest in the town added a great tension to the backdrop of Susan and Charles' equally mounting tension.
5) That whole section with Charles and Quill guarding the Magazine was definitely one of my favorite moments. It added great suspense, and a touch of action that I found myself unable to stop reading.
6) The epilogue with Susan, Charles, and Kitty was very sweet! I felt so warm and full after reading that final line. It was one of those little "contented sigh" moments.
After reading McCrae's author's note, I do find it beautifully miraculous that God guided her to VA so that she would fall in love with the state, and then write this beautiful series. As a Virginian myself, I really enjoyed reading about some of the places I've been to over the years, and I'm grateful this book was recommended to me so that I could experience VA through the eyes of the past. I would definitely read more of McCrae's work!
October 11, 2024
“Storms never last. You'll see your sunsets."
~Miss Susan Bailey shouldn't be enjoying beautiful sunsets over the Atlantic with a grumpy colonist. She swore not to marry while her mother lives. Her large dowry has given her lots of practice dodging potential suitors. But when her younger brother sets off on an adventure to the colonies she can't stay put. Someone has to keep him out of trouble. Only she seems to be finding trouble of her own. Trouble with stormy gray eyes. Trouble...because marrying a Virginian is unthinkable. Especially in 1774...
"With Charles, she was free of the botherment of courtship. It was refreshing to be with a man not determined to win her hand, heart, and dowry."
-The Lady And The Loyalist, is a heartwarming, tender, moving Colonial era story full of compassion and sweetness, even in a turbulent time for so many people in history. It's delightfully filled with such witty banter, swoony moments, and humor. This story is unique and engaging with such endearing characters full of such heart and depth. I enjoyed the appearance of a dear couple from dear@stephaniemcraeauthor previous endearing novella. I thoroughly enjoyed that this story weaves history so wonderfully with a sweet romance.
The depth beyond was beautifully tender, and full of all the emotions. I loved seeing characters realize that, life is too short and precious. Sometimes, where life takes us can be better than we could have imagined, going forward with faith. When we look for the good, , we find the miracles, and see the beautiful sunsets! This dear story is worth the read!
"Susan was a miracle. Not the kind that turned water into wine. The kind that made you believe there was such a thing as heaven and that it wasn't so far away, after all.”
-Content: historical references to human trafficking and slavery.
"Sometimes ye have to stand under the mistletoe if ye want to be kissed."
#theladyandtheloyalist
#stephaniemcrae
#allaboutthebestreads
"She had found her country, here with him. And it was good."
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“One’s country is where one is well.”
~Miss Susan Bailey shouldn't be enjoying beautiful sunsets over the Atlantic with a grumpy colonist. She swore not to marry while her mother lives. Her large dowry has given her lots of practice dodging potential suitors. But when her younger brother sets off on an adventure to the colonies she can't stay put. Someone has to keep him out of trouble. Only she seems to be finding trouble of her own. Trouble with stormy gray eyes. Trouble...because marrying a Virginian is unthinkable. Especially in 1774...
"With Charles, she was free of the botherment of courtship. It was refreshing to be with a man not determined to win her hand, heart, and dowry."
-The Lady And The Loyalist, is a heartwarming, tender, moving Colonial era story full of compassion and sweetness, even in a turbulent time for so many people in history. It's delightfully filled with such witty banter, swoony moments, and humor. This story is unique and engaging with such endearing characters full of such heart and depth. I enjoyed the appearance of a dear couple from dear@stephaniemcraeauthor previous endearing novella. I thoroughly enjoyed that this story weaves history so wonderfully with a sweet romance.
The depth beyond was beautifully tender, and full of all the emotions. I loved seeing characters realize that, life is too short and precious. Sometimes, where life takes us can be better than we could have imagined, going forward with faith. When we look for the good, , we find the miracles, and see the beautiful sunsets! This dear story is worth the read!
"Susan was a miracle. Not the kind that turned water into wine. The kind that made you believe there was such a thing as heaven and that it wasn't so far away, after all.”
-Content: historical references to human trafficking and slavery.
"Sometimes ye have to stand under the mistletoe if ye want to be kissed."
#theladyandtheloyalist
#stephaniemcrae
#allaboutthebestreads
"She had found her country, here with him. And it was good."
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“One’s country is where one is well.”
May 10, 2025
This book was so much more than a sweet romance. In fact, had many components to it and held my interest all the way through. The two main charcters grew into themselves and learned valuable life lessons throughout.
Before she could accept Charles’ proposal, Susan learned that she was loved by God for who she was, not what she could do to serve people. She had believed that lie her entire life, as the head of her own household while her mother was ill for years. She was constantly serving her family with little thanks and what she felt was little love in return.
Susan helped Charles see the injustices in his home city of Williamsburg and to do what was right and honorable for his indentured and enslaved brothers and sisters. He also learned that a woman above his own class could love him for who he was, not how big a house or how much money he could provide.
I also appreciated the subplots which dealt with indentured servitude, slavery, class differences, and growing tensions between Britain and the colonies in Virginia. I felt immersed in history every time I picked up this book. The author clearly poured a lot of research into setting the scene.
Since it took nearly the whole book for Charles and Susan to get together, I reveled in the side characters and their support/admonishment of the main couple. I also loved them for who they were. Quill, Polly, Isaac, Aunt Dorothea, the Finlays, and my favorite, Emmeline! Sometimes Susan bothered me for trying to change sweet, bookish Emmeline into a lady of high etiquette but I know she was just trying to help😂!
I will definitely be reading more from this author and can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Before she could accept Charles’ proposal, Susan learned that she was loved by God for who she was, not what she could do to serve people. She had believed that lie her entire life, as the head of her own household while her mother was ill for years. She was constantly serving her family with little thanks and what she felt was little love in return.
Susan helped Charles see the injustices in his home city of Williamsburg and to do what was right and honorable for his indentured and enslaved brothers and sisters. He also learned that a woman above his own class could love him for who he was, not how big a house or how much money he could provide.
I also appreciated the subplots which dealt with indentured servitude, slavery, class differences, and growing tensions between Britain and the colonies in Virginia. I felt immersed in history every time I picked up this book. The author clearly poured a lot of research into setting the scene.
Since it took nearly the whole book for Charles and Susan to get together, I reveled in the side characters and their support/admonishment of the main couple. I also loved them for who they were. Quill, Polly, Isaac, Aunt Dorothea, the Finlays, and my favorite, Emmeline! Sometimes Susan bothered me for trying to change sweet, bookish Emmeline into a lady of high etiquette but I know she was just trying to help😂!
I will definitely be reading more from this author and can’t wait for the next book in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2024
This was a fabulous slow-burn historical romance set primarily in Williamsburg, VA during the 1770s. Loved the characters so much and enjoyed the picture of life in Colonial Williamsburg.
June 18, 2025
Когато There Lady and the Loyalist пристигна при мен заедно с още няколко томчета, изпитах усещане за предстоящо щастие. Исках да отложа преживяването, но погледа ми постоянно се спираше върху красивите корици. И нямаше как да устоя за дълго.
Stephanie McRae е използвала исторически събития, стоящи в основата на осъзнаващата се американска нация, добавила е няколко човешки съдби сред хилядите жители на колониите и е създала история за желанието да бъдем обичани, за намирането на мястото, което ни прави щастливи и за пътя за извоюването на независимост.
Сюзън и Чарлз са много симпатични герои! Неуверени в себе си, заради ред постъпки от страна на семействата им, те са умни, състрадателни и с чувство за отговорност. От собствения си поглед върху хората знам, че чувствителните, отговорни и интелигентни личности не живеят лесно в среда, която ги приема за даденост. Често техните желая, стремежи и разбирания са поставяни на заден план. Младостта им е оправдание близки, семейство и приятели да се възползват от добротата им. Но както в реалния живот, така и в книгата, героите проумяха, че отговорностите могат да се споделят в ��мето на възможността за лично удовлетворение и щастливо бъдеще.
Колкото и трудни да бяха вътрешните борби и размисли на Сюзън и Чарлз, близките около тях хора им показаха подкрепа и насърчиха стремежите им. Беше прекрасно, че лелята на Сюзън подаде ръка, за да може любовта да получи добро начало! Без притеснения от финансов
характер, с благословия и благосклонност едно младо семейство може да си даде така нужното време за щастливи часове заедно. За мен този момент беше най - удовлетворяващият в цялата книга!
The Lady and the Loyalist е първата книга от поредицата на Stephanie McRae Heart of Revolution. Радвам се, че я прочетох сега, защото зад ъгъла е втората.
* “Also, better to cut ties with people whose values make you uncomfortable. Otherwise, the longer you stay with them, the more you risk forfeiting."
Stephanie McRae е използвала исторически събития, стоящи в основата на осъзнаващата се американска нация, добавила е няколко човешки съдби сред хилядите жители на колониите и е създала история за желанието да бъдем обичани, за намирането на мястото, което ни прави щастливи и за пътя за извоюването на независимост.
Сюзън и Чарлз са много симпатични герои! Неуверени в себе си, заради ред постъпки от страна на семействата им, те са умни, състрадателни и с чувство за отговорност. От собствения си поглед върху хората знам, че чувствителните, отговорни и интелигентни личности не живеят лесно в среда, която ги приема за даденост. Често техните желая, стремежи и разбирания са поставяни на заден план. Младостта им е оправдание близки, семейство и приятели да се възползват от добротата им. Но както в реалния живот, така и в книгата, героите проумяха, че отговорностите могат да се споделят в ��мето на възможността за лично удовлетворение и щастливо бъдеще.
Колкото и трудни да бяха вътрешните борби и размисли на Сюзън и Чарлз, близките около тях хора им показаха подкрепа и насърчиха стремежите им. Беше прекрасно, че лелята на Сюзън подаде ръка, за да може любовта да получи добро начало! Без притеснения от финансов
характер, с благословия и благосклонност едно младо семейство може да си даде така нужното време за щастливи часове заедно. За мен този момент беше най - удовлетворяващият в цялата книга!
The Lady and the Loyalist е първата книга от поредицата на Stephanie McRae Heart of Revolution. Радвам се, че я прочетох сега, защото зад ъгъла е втората.
* “Also, better to cut ties with people whose values make you uncomfortable. Otherwise, the longer you stay with them, the more you risk forfeiting."
March 7, 2025
I love this book!
I enjoy stories set during the time of the American Revolution. The Lady and the Loyalist is now one of my favorites!
Stephanie’s storytelling is exceptional. I felt myself transported back in time! I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters and their love story. I appreciated Stephanie’s attention to detail, historic accuracy, and beautiful prose.
I also recommend the novella, Wager for a Kiss, which is about two of the secondary characters in The Lady and the Loyalist. I was quite happy to read more about them!
Now I am so excited for the next book, The Hero and the Patriot!
Thank you, Stephanie! 💛
I enjoy stories set during the time of the American Revolution. The Lady and the Loyalist is now one of my favorites!
Stephanie’s storytelling is exceptional. I felt myself transported back in time! I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters and their love story. I appreciated Stephanie’s attention to detail, historic accuracy, and beautiful prose.
I also recommend the novella, Wager for a Kiss, which is about two of the secondary characters in The Lady and the Loyalist. I was quite happy to read more about them!
Now I am so excited for the next book, The Hero and the Patriot!
Thank you, Stephanie! 💛
January 23, 2025
I just loved everything about this book! It has romance, duel POV, early American history. Nothing is rushed, the characters are well thought out and I can't wait to revisit Colonial Williamsburg and get to know other characters more! The research Stephanie puts into her novels is inspiring and I'm positively floored that this was her debut! Highly recommend!
April 28, 2025
This book was so fun! It sucked me right in so that I struggled to put it down.
The characters felt very human; the hero was dashing, but not unrealistically so.
The romance was riddled with obstacles, but not in an overly dramaticized way. The plot had the perfect balance of sweet romance and tension and sadness. And the writing was so good, especially for a modern novel!
Also, while I'm not an expert, it all felt amazingly historically accurate, which was refreshing. I loved the minor role that the discontent American colonists played in the story- that conflict really deepened the characters.
Early on in the book, everything felt a bit too obvious; the characters said almost exactly what they meant all the time, and I wasn't crazy about the dialogue. It felt unrealistic.
But later on in the book, I found myself frustrated at the plot complications hindering the characters' ability to communicate, and that was well done.
I had no further complaints. It was a fabulously fun book.
The characters felt very human; the hero was dashing, but not unrealistically so.
The romance was riddled with obstacles, but not in an overly dramaticized way. The plot had the perfect balance of sweet romance and tension and sadness. And the writing was so good, especially for a modern novel!
Also, while I'm not an expert, it all felt amazingly historically accurate, which was refreshing. I loved the minor role that the discontent American colonists played in the story- that conflict really deepened the characters.
Early on in the book, everything felt a bit too obvious; the characters said almost exactly what they meant all the time, and I wasn't crazy about the dialogue. It felt unrealistic.
But later on in the book, I found myself frustrated at the plot complications hindering the characters' ability to communicate, and that was well done.
I had no further complaints. It was a fabulously fun book.
October 11, 2024
Susan Bailey is as charming a woman as they come. She holds her family in the highest esteem, she’s proper and charming to those around her, and she cares deeply about others. So when her younger brother decides he wants to leave England to visit their Aunt in the American Colonies for a year of learning and excitement, their father convinces Susan she should join him.
Quietly, their father knows that if Susan stays in England, she will devote her entire life to caring for her mother and never live her own life. Which, while admirable, there are others that can fill those shoes and he wants Susan to live her life. So, she accompanies her brother on the long journey across the ocean where she makes the acquaintance of Charles Johnson. He is returning home to the colonies where his familial responsibilities are.
The two of them are quite opposites, where Susan is very outgoing, Charles is reserved and quiet. But their long sea journey quickly breaks down the barriers and a strong friendship developments. As they reach land and settle into their lives in Virginia, that friendships deeply evolves into more. But both of them have reservations and that requires a lot of time and patience from both of them.
There are a lot of other sub plots in this book including indentured servitude and land management in the early colonial period of the 1700’s. One of the indentured servant families featured in this book is the Finlay’s from Scotland. They sell their service for a 5-year contract to obtain passage on the vessel heading to Virginia. This was an interesting and important development in the story as my paternal family was from Scotland and carried the name Finley; It’s my maiden name. As I’ve researched my own family, I’ve actually hit a wall with that line because somewhere in 1776 (the year of America’s independence), my fourth great-grandfather, William Finley (Findlay), was born in Maryland and I’ve never been able to find his parents. After reading this, it’s quite possible he was born here after arriving with a family of indentured servants. More for me to ponder here.
But I adored this book and I always enjoy delving into the colonial period and early times of America’s development. Susan and Charles were respectable and loveable characters.
Quietly, their father knows that if Susan stays in England, she will devote her entire life to caring for her mother and never live her own life. Which, while admirable, there are others that can fill those shoes and he wants Susan to live her life. So, she accompanies her brother on the long journey across the ocean where she makes the acquaintance of Charles Johnson. He is returning home to the colonies where his familial responsibilities are.
The two of them are quite opposites, where Susan is very outgoing, Charles is reserved and quiet. But their long sea journey quickly breaks down the barriers and a strong friendship developments. As they reach land and settle into their lives in Virginia, that friendships deeply evolves into more. But both of them have reservations and that requires a lot of time and patience from both of them.
There are a lot of other sub plots in this book including indentured servitude and land management in the early colonial period of the 1700’s. One of the indentured servant families featured in this book is the Finlay’s from Scotland. They sell their service for a 5-year contract to obtain passage on the vessel heading to Virginia. This was an interesting and important development in the story as my paternal family was from Scotland and carried the name Finley; It’s my maiden name. As I’ve researched my own family, I’ve actually hit a wall with that line because somewhere in 1776 (the year of America’s independence), my fourth great-grandfather, William Finley (Findlay), was born in Maryland and I’ve never been able to find his parents. After reading this, it’s quite possible he was born here after arriving with a family of indentured servants. More for me to ponder here.
But I adored this book and I always enjoy delving into the colonial period and early times of America’s development. Susan and Charles were respectable and loveable characters.
September 22, 2025
If love was an affair of the heart, why couldn’t he get her out of his head?
A sea voyage, Colonial America, found family, turbulent events, witty banter, and a sweet romance. I haven’t read many books set during Colonial times and I really enjoyed the historical aspects of this book. It was well researched and felt accurate to the times.
Susan is compassionate, sacrificing, and determined. She was so devoted to her family it was crippling to her dreams. I enjoyed seeing her use her ‘healers’ knowledge too. I loved how she made people comfortable and got them to open up to her. Seeing her tear down Charles’ walls was so fun. I loved how Susan automatically turned to Charles when she was confused or distressed. Charles is intelligent, stalwart, and protective. His struggle with the prevalence of slavery and indentures was heartbreaking. I loved how he helped the Finlay family even when it cost him and his tender treatment of Kitty. 🫠 His battle of loyalty to the King or Virginia was interesting. I absolutely loved Susan and Charles together. Their struggle to admit their feelings and to find a way to be happy together was hard but so sweet in the end.
I loved Aunt Dorothea, the Morris siblings, and the Gardiners. I’m excited to read Quill and Emmeline’s story next.
A few more quotes:
In the meantime, his feelings were so big he had to fight to keep them tucked away—like a trunk packed so full, it can only be locked while sitting on it.
Home was where people were loyal to you, even when you failed.
“But, God willing, one day I’ll meet a lass who can light the love fire in my heart, the kind of flame that doesna go out. And when I do, I willna hide my feelings under a bushel.”
A sea voyage, Colonial America, found family, turbulent events, witty banter, and a sweet romance. I haven’t read many books set during Colonial times and I really enjoyed the historical aspects of this book. It was well researched and felt accurate to the times.
Susan is compassionate, sacrificing, and determined. She was so devoted to her family it was crippling to her dreams. I enjoyed seeing her use her ‘healers’ knowledge too. I loved how she made people comfortable and got them to open up to her. Seeing her tear down Charles’ walls was so fun. I loved how Susan automatically turned to Charles when she was confused or distressed. Charles is intelligent, stalwart, and protective. His struggle with the prevalence of slavery and indentures was heartbreaking. I loved how he helped the Finlay family even when it cost him and his tender treatment of Kitty. 🫠 His battle of loyalty to the King or Virginia was interesting. I absolutely loved Susan and Charles together. Their struggle to admit their feelings and to find a way to be happy together was hard but so sweet in the end.
I loved Aunt Dorothea, the Morris siblings, and the Gardiners. I’m excited to read Quill and Emmeline’s story next.
A few more quotes:
In the meantime, his feelings were so big he had to fight to keep them tucked away—like a trunk packed so full, it can only be locked while sitting on it.
Home was where people were loyal to you, even when you failed.
“But, God willing, one day I’ll meet a lass who can light the love fire in my heart, the kind of flame that doesna go out. And when I do, I willna hide my feelings under a bushel.”
December 4, 2024
A sweet, lyrical tale!
I adored this story. It's easily one of my favorite historical fiction novels that I read this year! McRae's writing style is gorgeous, echoing with delightful sigh-worthy similes and descriptions. (It reminded me of Laura Frantz's writing style. 🥹🥰) The characters and plot felt so...real. The romance was perfection, and the "he falls first" trope makes me immensely happy. (And that glorious cover...🤩🧡)
If you like the American Revolution time period and are fond of deep, realistic, faith-filled stories with clean romance, I can't recommend The Lady and the Loyalist enough! ✨
I adored this story. It's easily one of my favorite historical fiction novels that I read this year! McRae's writing style is gorgeous, echoing with delightful sigh-worthy similes and descriptions. (It reminded me of Laura Frantz's writing style. 🥹🥰) The characters and plot felt so...real. The romance was perfection, and the "he falls first" trope makes me immensely happy. (And that glorious cover...🤩🧡)
If you like the American Revolution time period and are fond of deep, realistic, faith-filled stories with clean romance, I can't recommend The Lady and the Loyalist enough! ✨
February 23, 2025
Delightful slow burn
What an excellent, engaging story from an author new to me but I will certainly be reading anything that Ms. McRae publishes. I related wholeheartedly to Susan Bailey, who always does for others without regard for her own wants and desires. Charles Johnson was a wonderful solemn and steadfast hero and I was rooting for them from the first meeting and through the ups and downs of their delightful slow burn relationship.
What an excellent, engaging story from an author new to me but I will certainly be reading anything that Ms. McRae publishes. I related wholeheartedly to Susan Bailey, who always does for others without regard for her own wants and desires. Charles Johnson was a wonderful solemn and steadfast hero and I was rooting for them from the first meeting and through the ups and downs of their delightful slow burn relationship.
November 7, 2024
This was a great debut novel. I enjoyed all the historical details woven throughout the story, and thought the whole cast of characters were great. The only major downside was that the story seemed to move so slowly. I would've liked a little more action to add some excitement and move the story along.
Many thanks to the author for the early copy; all thoughts are my own.
Many thanks to the author for the early copy; all thoughts are my own.
September 30, 2025
Wonderful Historic Love Story
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️Going back for more Book 2 cannot wait! She is a gifted clean writer with fabulous plots, dear characters you love and what a great time spending you days in such pleasant company and learning new things along the way! Charles and Susan ❤️❤️❤️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️Going back for more Book 2 cannot wait! She is a gifted clean writer with fabulous plots, dear characters you love and what a great time spending you days in such pleasant company and learning new things along the way! Charles and Susan ❤️❤️❤️
December 7, 2025
This was such an impressive debut! The historical details were impeccable. The writing is beautiful. The building of respect, then friendship, then attraction between the two leads is so expertly done. It’s a long, slow burn that perfectly matches both the characters and the times in which they lived. I’m very excited to see there’s a second book already out in the series.
October 16, 2024
What an amazing novel! This is set in the 1770’s, at the beginning of the American Revolution. I found it so interesting because usually I read about the rebels who ended up founding The United States. Charles was loyal to the king, which was a fascinating point of view to read from.
The romance took a bit to get going, but once it started burning it was so sweet! My favorite part was the letter that went across the sea to officially ask for Susan’s hand in marriage. What a fun inclusion!
Another aspect I really enjoyed was reading about the discussion of slavery that was happening at that time. No spoilers here, but the way that Charles takes time to learn about the life of slaves around him was very interesting.
Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
The romance took a bit to get going, but once it started burning it was so sweet! My favorite part was the letter that went across the sea to officially ask for Susan’s hand in marriage. What a fun inclusion!
Another aspect I really enjoyed was reading about the discussion of slavery that was happening at that time. No spoilers here, but the way that Charles takes time to learn about the life of slaves around him was very interesting.
Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
January 10, 2025
AMAZZZINGGGG
Honestly one of my top five favorite novels of all time. Such wonderfully developed characters. Not shallow. Real and passionate and so many emotions!
Honestly one of my top five favorite novels of all time. Such wonderfully developed characters. Not shallow. Real and passionate and so many emotions!
November 12, 2025
This was just okay for me. The back and forth with the two main characters just drug on for me. Not much in the way of historical events. I would have like more of that with the love story.
January 8, 2026
This book was okay, but definitely not worth the length. I stopped reading about 1/3 of the way through and just skimmed the rest. Didn't warm up much to the characters, either.
January 21, 2026
(2024) I almost skipped this book because I don't read a lot of historical fiction. I am so glad I did not! This book was everything I didn't know I needed at the end of the year. I wanted to start it from the beginning the moment it ended.
(2025) Reread because the new novella is out. Will probably reread again with the sequel is released this fall. This book takes me back to my childhood reading American Girl Felicity books in the best way. I love the rich historical detail.
(2025) Reread because the new novella is out. Will probably reread again with the sequel is released this fall. This book takes me back to my childhood reading American Girl Felicity books in the best way. I love the rich historical detail.
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