Tides of Healing

Spies of the Civil War #6

by Sandra Merville Hart

A Southern belle fights to reclaim her home, but will her spying destroy the Union officer she never meant to love?

Savannah Adair has endured the unimaginable, hiding in a cave while her beloved Vicksburg was under siege. With the city now occupied by Union soldiers, Savannah cannot stand by and do nothing. So when one of the gaunt, half-starved Confederate prisoners asks her to spy for the South, she can’t refuse the chance to take back her home.

First Lieutenant Travis Lawson takes pride in the Union army's hard-fought victory, but he quickly realizes that the challenges of rebuilding and reconciliation are just beginning . . . and not everyone is appreciative of changes he’s making. Namely, the fiery and alluring Savannah Adair. Despite their differing loyalties and the societal divide between them, Travis cannot deny the growing feelings he has for her. When he is tasked with finding Southern spies in Vicksburg and he captures a female spy, Travis is forced to consider that the woman he’s beginning to love may be the enemy.

Genres: Civil War

392 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 11, 2025

About the author

Award-Winning and Amazon Bestselling Author Sandra Merville Hart is thrilled that her next Civil War series “Spies of the Civil War” will release in 2022! Book 1 of the series, Avenue of Betrayal, is set in Washington DC in 1861. Boulevard of Confusion and Byway to Danger (Books 2 & 3) are set in Richmond, Virginia, in 1862. Actual historical spies will influence the lives of fictional characters where everyone has secrets.

Her novella, Trail’s End, in “Smitten Novella Collection: The Cowboys” is set in the wild cattle town of Abilene, Kansas, in 1870. He’d been unable to save his own brother. How could he hope to save Abby’s?

Not This Year in “Christmas Fiction Off the Beaten Path,” is a heartwarming, nostalgic story of a hardworking family man facing difficult times at Christmas.

Her Civil War Romance, A Musket in My Hands, is 2019 Serious Writer Medal Fiction Winner and a 2019 Selah Awards Finalist. Two sisters have no choice but to join the men they love and muster into the Confederate army and in the fall of 1864—in time for things to go very badly for Southerners at the Battle of Franklin.

Her second Civil War romance novel, A Rebel in My House, 2018 Illumination Silver Award, released on July 15, 2017. A wounded Confederate soldier on the first day of battle leaves a Gettysburg seamstress with a heart-wrenching decision. Both have made promises. Some promises are impossible to keep.

Her debut book, A Stranger On My Land, IRCA Second Place 2015 and Christian Small Publishing Book of the Year 2016 Finalist, is the first book in a Civil War Romance series published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Should she turn her back on the wounded Union soldier?

Her novella, Surprised by Love in “From the Lake to the River” is set during the 1913 flood in Troy, Ohio. Unlikely heroes often rise up during tragedy.

Sandra is on the Planning Committee for Faith & Fellowship Book Festival. She served in the past as Executive Editor for DevoKids.com where she also contributed many historical articles. She teaches writer workshops.

Connect with Sandra on her blog, Historical Nibbles, https://sandramervillehart.wordpress.... where readers find posts relating to historical food/recipes, book reviews, and American history.

Reviews

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great story! I loved watching this story between a Confederate spy, Savannah, and a Union Soldier/Spy Catcher, Travis. Of course, Travis doesn’t know she is a spy and Savannah doesn’t know he is a spy catcher, so when their unlikely courtship happens it complicates things. One thing I enjoyed in the beginning of the story was, I liked watching Savannah and her mom trying to figure out how to do the basic cooking and cleaning and having no idea how because they always had the slaves to do it before. I really liked how this story showed what was going on after the slaves were freed. It was definitely a tough time with lots of emotions and struggles. I loved how both characters wanted to do what they thought was right and when they were wrong they changed. I also loved the strong Christian content throughout. I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story occurs in Vicksburg, MI, when the Civil War ends. Savannah, a young woman whose fiancé died in the war, takes care of her mother after her dad leaves to find work in another town. Describing the war-torn city and Savannah's destroyed southern mansion brings the story to life.

Left to carry on alone after their slaves are set free, Savannah experiences new responsibilities. Continuing with the privilege of family money, Savannah and her mother do their best. That is until a Union Officer comes into their life. Everything changes.

Torn between her land and obligations to the South, but now ruled by the Union, matters worsen. There is a lot of suspense, intrigue, mystery, and spying to keep the readers interested.

It is a very well-researched book that made me feel everything the characters went through as I turned the pages. A surprising ending made it perfect. I highly recommend it.

I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tides of Healing by Sandra Merville Hart is a soul-stirring story that goes far beyond the confines of history, romance, and war—it dives deep into the power of prayer and the unshakeable faith that sustains us through the darkest of times. As someone who treasures not only the historical backdrop but also the Christian messages woven throughout a novel, this book was a true blessing to experience.

The tension of the war is palpable, but it's the emotional and spiritual struggles of the characters that take center stage. Savannah Adair is a remarkable heroine—strong, determined, and yet deeply torn between loyalty to her people and a growing love for a Union officer who represents everything she’s fighting against. Through Savannah's eyes, we witness the toll war takes not just on the body, but on the soul. As she navigates the dangerous waters of espionage, her faith and prayers become her guiding light in a world steeped in uncertainty.

Travis Lawson, the Union officer she never meant to love, is a character whose transformation is equally as compelling. His initial pride in victory gives way to the complexities of rebuilding and reconciling a fractured nation. The relationship between Savannah and Travis, though born from conflict, is a beautiful exploration of how love and faith can bridge the deepest divides. There are no easy answers here, and that’s what makes their journey so impactful.

This novel made me think deeply about the power of prayer. There’s a profound lesson in how Savannah learns to pray boldly, to ask God for things bigger than her, and trust not only in His answers but in who He is. As I read, I kept reflecting on the words: “Never fear asking God for things you need, things that are bigger than you. He can say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ – that’s up to Him. We can trust Him to decide.” That’s a lesson we all need to remember.

Savannah and Travis' journey exemplifies this trust in God’s plan. They pray without fear and without hesitation, leaving the outcome in His hands.

The descriptions of the setting in Tides of Healing are as vivid as the characters themselves. I could almost feel the dust of Vicksburg, the weight of history in the air, and the quiet desperation of those who fought to survive.

What I loved most was the way Tides of Healing spoke to my heart about faith and prayer. The reminder that "Your Heavenly Father loves you so much. He hears every prayer, even the ones only our hearts whisper," is a powerful truth. No matter the storm, no matter the heartache, God is listening, and He is always at work for those who have surrendered all to Him.

I couldn’t put this book down. It a gripping historical romance and a testament to the incredible power of prayer and God’s perfect, sovereign timing. If you enjoy historical fiction that transports you to another time, challenges your faith, and draws you closer to God, then Tides of Healing is a must-read. This is a story I’ll revisit again and again.

I received a digital ARC of this book from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on superb writing and story’s excellent content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[April Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a gripping story of the Battle of Vicksburg. The details are vivid of the courage, suffering, and heartache on both sides of the War. I can’t imagine living through a war or in a city being bombed or losing everything you had. A very thought-provoking tale that makes you consider what is most important.

Savannah is a mix of feistiness, kindness, determination, and compassion. We get to watch her grow in her faith; oh, she has some awful growing pains, but in the end, she is a woman with stronger faith and a healed heart. Travis also carries a burden of guilt from years ago and wants to see wrongs made right. They are so very different, yet alike, passionate about their causes. Their journey to their shared future is not without pain and heartache, but it is worth the storm to see the sun shine again.

I enjoyed this series. I learned a lot about the War and the unknown history of the citizens’ struggle during these times. I would definitely re-visit them. I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tides of Healing opens with a powerful scene filled with atmosphere and vivid descriptions, making it easy to imagine the devastation witnessed by the characters.

The story revolves around Savannah and Travis who are very different but interesting in their own ways. Opposites often attract, so that aspect makes this story even more intriguing. Their contrasting views and personalities add an intriguing element to the story, especially as Savannah’s dependence on others evolves and she begins to grow. I wasn’t sure I’d like Savannah at first, but as she begins to grow, so does my empathy.

I really appreciate the research and heart the author put into this story. With suspense, spying, romance, history, and mystery, Tides of Healing captured my attention quickly, taught me a lot I didn’t know, and made a lasting impression.

First Line: Standing on the sidewalk of her wrecked city on the stifling morning, Savannah Adair couldn’t believe the evidence of her own eyes.
Series: Spies of the Civil War, book 6
Genre: Christian Western
Author: Sandra Merville Hart
Page Count: 380

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
Opinions are 100% my own.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first met Savannah Adair early in this Vicksburg series, she represented the classic southern belle with her personality, family wealth and behavior. In this final book in the series with the Civil War going on in earnest, it was interesting seeing her character development once her and her family’s circumstances changed drastically after the siege and fall of Vicksburg. It was this feistiness and determination, along with her natural beauty that drew Union officer Travis Lawson to her. It was interesting to read how these two seemingly polar opposites could develop a friendship, let alone something more.

I loved the way Travis encouraged Savannah to return to her faith and to not only pray, but to pray big prayers. When her actions on behalf of her beloved South hurt Travis and the freed slaves whom she loves and now employs, she undergoes more introspection and prayer which leads her to ask for forgiveness as well as to forgive others. Read the series in order first, but do not miss this beautifully written series conclusion. Looking forward to what this author writes next.

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series and this book continues with the battle of Vicksburg and focuses on Savannah Adair. She has lead a privileged life until the war began and she lost her beau Willie. Her friends have carried on and unknown to her have supported the North. When Savannah’s beloved city is captured and she is desperate for food and safety she turns to a Union officer to help her. She finds herself spying for the Confederacy in hopes of winning her city back. She could lose it all if captured.

Travis Lawson is determined to win this war and make sure that slavery is abolished. He feels responsible for his uncle’s death and he plans to honor his memory by carrying on his legacy. When he meets Savannah he is instantly drawn to the southern bell but can two people who come from such different backgrounds find common ground?

Great story and I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Anger at the Yankee who’d brought this calamity boiled up inside Savannah. Papa wasn’t here to fight for them. The South’s soldiers might have surrendered—she would not.”

Tides of Healing: Spies of the Civil War Bk 6 by Sandra Merville Hart, is the needed conclusion to this series. As one who has been reading this series from its inception, I especially wanted to see each couple in this circle of friends in books 4-6 find their happy ending. Hart finally circles back to Savannah Adair, whose boyfriend Willie has died shortly after mustering into the Southern army. With her father often away on business and her mother’s only skills involving entertaining, Savannah discovers it is she who must work for her family’s survival in defeated Vicksburg.

Savannah wishes for a return to life as it was before the siege and defeat of the city. She first meets Union officer First Lt. Travis Lawson as he joyfully tells any Black person he sees that they are now free. Watching her own slaves immediately leave, Savannah begins to look for ways to protest the occupation of her city and win it back for the South. Little does she foresee that the many interactions she and her mother will have with a certain compassionate lieutenant will cause her to lose her heart. But the real question will be- will she prove loyal to her city and the South or to the handsome and kind-to-a-fault Northern lieutenant ?

I loved the great amount of history that Hart imparts in her novel. Characters are very relatable. I loved seeing the growth in the characters, although the title says it well- Tides of Healing. Like waves of the sea, emotions tumble back and forth, bitter one moment, thankful the next. Angry, then interested in the opposite sex, resentful, then resilient. How I loved seeing the different relationships grow and change. Obviously, we see Travis and Savannah foremost, but I liked seeing both Savannah’s parents soften. We also see a couple of sworn enemies and those who have every right to be enemies decide to let God’s love overcome incredible mountains of hurt.

Childhood traumatic memories have shaped both Savannah and Travis. Savannah refuses to ask her Heavenly Father for anything big. Travis tells her,
“One day, you’ll need to pray a big prayer. Please don’t be afraid to ask. He’ll decide whether to say ‘no’ or ‘yes’ or ‘wait a while.’ Pray and leave it up to God.”

Travis believes himself responsible for an event he had no control over. This not only shapes his political leanings, but causes him years of anguish.

My fave secondary characters are Ellen and Michael. Ellen because she loves with a love that covers over a multitude of wrongs. Michael…well, you’ll have to read to see why he’s special! I definitely have some questions about that man!😊

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Your Heavenly Father loves you so much. He hears every prayer, even the ones only our hearts whisper.”

“She didn’t pray now. The outcome was too important.”

“Hunger couldn’t afford pride.”

“I long for the days before the world went mad…”

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tides of Healing is the sixth book in a fun series about the Civil War and the spies that helped both sides as the war raged. I so wanted to say helped both sides with their victory but that doesn’t make any sense since only one side could win the war. But they did both have victories throughout the war and a lot of that was due to the spies working unnoticed and unseen behind the lines.

This series follows six women as they experience life during the Civil War. For this particular novel we are back in Vicksburg and visiting the third of a trio of friends who make up books four, five, and six.

Savannah is our heroine in this novel. She’s a southern belle but she’s watched all that she loves being ravished by the war and the Union army. So it’s a no-brainer for her to accept the commission given to her by a starving Confederate prisoner to spy and report her findings.

Enter 1st Lt Travis. He’s charged with finding the spies within Vicksburg. And once he catches one female spy he begins to wonder if the woman who is beginning to capture his heart might also be a spy.

And let the story roll from there!
This is a decidedly Christian novel which I love. It’s also a story that you’re going to want to read. It is book six in a series. I thoroughly believe you need to read all of the books and read them in order to get the most out of this novel. You could possibly read this as a stand-alone but it is much better read as part of the series.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Viewpoints and worlds collide when a Southern belle and a Union Lieutenant meet and fall in love. Savannah Adair has a major wakeup call when Union soldiers march into her hometown and set up new rules. Her slaves are set free, she has wounded soldiers in her living room, her father has not come back home from his business trip, and so it is just her mother and her. Savannah nor her mother know how to do anything basic, like cooking, making coffee, or lighting a fire. While I was reading about their struggles, I thought about their reliance on slaves and being pampered their whole lives, was something of a form of slavery itself. A bit of a knowledge gap. So, they must hire friends to come and help them.

During all this, First Lieutenant Travis Lawson has come to Savannah’s town to occupy, keep order, and try to rebuild. There are bad and good people on both sides of the war and Travis’s job is not easy when he is trying to keep law and order. His own Union soldiers are not helping either. Looting and thievery is much too common on everyone in this war. All sides have lost much. His one bright spot is the feisty Savannah, whom he cannot seem to stop thinking about.

As they get to know one another and an uneasy trust develops, so does those romantic feelings. Can a Union soldier and a staunch and firm Southern belle find love amidst war, treachery, and chaos? What if one of them does the unthinkable in a time of war? The title says it all and what a journey these two have to that healing.

I was provided a copy of this novel by the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

People forget that just because the battle of Vicksburg was the final major battle of the Civil War, the war didn't end there. It continued on after that, but the people of Vicksburg were beaten down and conquered. They had endured much after days/weeks of bombardment and most of the residents living in caves they had dug themselves into the hillside. It was miserable for them. When the Confederates surrendered, they were starving and beaten. So were the citizens of the city. However, the Union soldiers took over the town and the citizens didn't like that. I don't think I would either! This is what happened with Savannah. She saw her whole way of life disappear as the Union soldiers took over the town she loved and some took to looting. Savannah's family was rather wealthy but still, they had suffered. Now, all her family's slaves were free, even though they had treated them fairly. She meets Travis who is a Union officer and although they have differing philosophies, they begin to care for each other. Savannah, however, can't let go of the South rising up again and taking back Vicksburg so she decides to spy for the South when she is offered the chance.
I loved seeing the huge growth in Savannah throughout the story, especially in her faith. Travis helps her a great deal in this. Travis also grows in many ways. The story is rather long, but the author was very good with her research, and it shows. The characters are realistic, along with the situations. I enjoyed this entire series a lot and feel it a worthwhile read.

[Debra Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandra Merville Hart’s Tides of Healing, book number six in her Spies of the Civil War series, hits all the marks for an excellent, and enlightening reading experience. Two things I can always count on when I read one of Ms. Hart’s books are—they will be historically accurate, and I will learn something I never knew before.

Tides of Healing opens on Independence Day, 1863. Vicksburg has been under siege from the Union army and navy for forty-seven days. The bombing is so bad, the citizens had to hide out in caves dug into the hillsides. As they come out of their shelters, they see just-surrendered Confederate troops marching past their homes, many of them wounded. Savannah Adair offers them water, fetched by the daughter of their cook and housekeeper, Ellen.

As First Lt. Travis Lawson passes the Adair home, he sees the enslaved people who are eagerly watching the parade and tells them they are now free. Savannah Adair is shocked when their entire household staff leaves them. Anger fills Savannah while Travis’s heart soars at the people being freed.

Savannah and Travis are opposites. Could anything good come from such an unfavorable first meeting? Who will spy on whom?

What a wonderful read. Another keeper. Highly recommended.

Bonus—be sure to read the author’s notes at the end.
In full disclosure, I received an advance copy of this book with no expectations. The opinions here are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about a war that divided families and neighbors while fighting to restore chaos in the states. People who had been slaves were now free. That brought celebration to the streets. But not everyone was happy with the outcome.

Savannh is a feisty character who holds bitterness towards those who she didn’t support. She is very unhappy that her town is in shambles and can’t believe that her enemy dares march down the street. I loved how she decided to help the effort and do something dangerous. It’s not everyday that a woman will agree to be a spy. Can you imagine the danger Savannah puts herself in?

Travis is a union Lieutenant who is ready to rebuild and put the past behind him. When he encounters Savannah he knows that she is not happy with him being anywhere near her. He feels her animosity right away. He lets the slaves know they are free which upsets Savannah. Will he be able to find anything in common with her?

I loved the part about Savannah slowly seeing things differently and how her heart began to soften. There is a slow build of attraction between her and Travis. I wondered how they would ever be able to agree on anything. The author does a good job of showing how the war affected both sides. Get ready for action, secrets and reconciliation in this wonderful book about a war that changed history.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Romance Fiction is a favorite genre of mine. River of Peril by Sandra Merville Hart is Book 6 in the Spies of the Civil War Series. I have read this series since Book 1 and was very excited to read this book also.

WOW, this book really gripped me from the very first Chapter. I started reading and could not put it down. I really LOVE the Civil War Era and the time of 1862. The setting is Vicksburg, MI as the war winds down. The 2 main characters in this book are Savannah Adair and First Lieutenant Travis Lawson. Savannah has seen so much destruction in this war, including losing her fiance. The end of slavery also took her family to a whole new aspect of life that she never imagined. Her life takes a real turn when Travis Lawson, a Union Officer comes into her life. She now has made the decision to be a spy for the Confederacy. Travis becomes a friend and then something more develops between Savannah and Travis. Travis has a strong faith and he helps Savannah renew her faith in God. I can honestly say that seeing Savannah renew her faith and all the great things God does for her and her family was amazing! The book has a strong Faith Based Message. Romance, History and Trust. I am very sad to see this series end, it was probably one of the BEST Historical series I have ever read! I HIGHLY recommend this entire series to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction! FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book six in the Spies of the Civil War series. The setting is Vicksburg Mississippi in 1863 just after the Union army has taken it victoriously and has freed the slaves. As the soldiers take over the city and face the challenges of rebuilding and restoring the area they are being undermined by spies who don’t want or understand the changes that have came to their way of life. We met Savannah Adair and her family in previous books and as they have endured their city being under seize and living in a cave , we now find them caring for patients in their home that now has no windows and much damage from the fighting. It is a stressful time for both sides and we get a look of each and can feel their differences. I loved the Faith thread interwoven that brings amicable peace between Savannah and the union Lieutenant Travis Lawson. It has a slower pace that gives you time to absorb the depth of the story and visualize the destruction. It is a difficult time but hope and change of hearts makes for an interesting and well researched read. I really enjoyed this book and recommend reading.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever been adamant in a belief or cause and then realized that you have been wrong? Savannah Adair is the perfect example of the change that can come from enlightenment and faith! Slavery was the norm for this Southern belle until a crucial Civil War battle presented a different perspective. Vicksburg, Mississippi was critical to both the Union and Confederacy, and author Sandra Merville Hart shares a poignant look at the aftermath of this battle. Lives were lost, families were changed, and the residents of Vicksburg were subjected to Union occupation. Savannah's spy activities started as a way to help her beloved Southern cause until she gained a new understanding. What would her next actions be?

Hart's dedication to research is especially evident in this riveting conclusion of the Spies of the Civil War series. Tides of Healing is an engaging story of family drama, blossoming romance, and awakening faith. I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction!

I received a digital copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

[Robin Willson · Rating 5 out of 5]

July 4, 1863 Vicksburg. The Union had taken the city after a hard beating and starvation, and they freed slaves as they marched through the city and surrounding area. Savannah belonged to one of the wealthiest families in Vicksburg and lost all her help that day. The Union gave them supplies but she and her mother had never learned how to use them. An opportunity presented itself, and Savanah became a spy for the Confederates. A Union soldier came to her home as they had wounded soldiers there in the house, and they begin to know each other, softening the edges of their new lives. Seeing the aftermath of the war through each of their eyes brings out your compassion for each of them. Interesting illustration of the spy network and tension, wondering if Savannah will get caught, keep you turning the pages to the end.

I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#TidesOfHealing #SandraMervilleHart #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #CelebrateLit #WildHeartBooks #ChristianHistoricalRomance

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tides of Healing is written by Sandra Merville Hart. This is book six in the Spies of the Civil War. This series has been one of my favorite historical fiction series. It’s ok if you’ve not read the whole series. They can be read as stand alone also. The author will captivate you as soon as you start reading.

Savannah has watched in horror as her beloved Vicksburg has burned. When she’s asked to spy for the south she knows that she’s felt to do something. Then she meets Travis. He’s a Union Soldier/Spy Catcher.

Travis is super thrilled that the Union is winning and I’ll dare to say a bit prideful. However the fractured nation and those who have been left behind start to soften his heart. Savannah has her own trials. She’s got to learn to do basic things like cooking and cleaning now that their slaves have been freed.

The book is well written. The characters evolve through the story. The author has captured the Civil War time period beautifully.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

[Psusan · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very beginning the battle lines are drawn between Union Officer, First Lieutenant Travis Lawson and Vicksburg citizen, Savannah Adair in Tides of Healing (Spies of the Civil War Book 6) by Sandra Merville Hart. The author had her work cut out for her to bring any healing let alone romance between these two characters. I must say that she did a marvelous job of it. War causes much hurt and damage besides loss of life, but the fight against slavery is a worthy cause. So even though I am a Southern born and bred, Savannah’s actions and those of her family were shameful in the beginning of this story. I am sure many were heartless, but Travis wasn’t one of those.

The story is one of memories of life in Vicksburg before the occupation as it is now that the Union is in charge there. What a story of the suffering, the heartache and the misplaced loyalties as Savannah grows in her beliefs and changes during this time. All of this happens in such a vivid and realistic plot. As much of a personal growth story as it is a romance during war story. Recommend to all.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed the books in this series. I have enjoyed learning more about the Civil War through these books and what the people went through. I liked seeing how each person was trying to do what they thought was right. I liked how in this story Savannah’s perspective started to shift as she got to know Travis and as she got to know those who were her servants. I liked how this story showed the struggle that it would have been to decide where your loyalties lie. I also liked seeing relationships heal and opinions change as the people in Savannah’s home got to know Travis and other Union soldiers and realize that some soldiers are kind and respectful. I liked how the author showed that Southerners and Northerners could live together peacefully even during war time. I thought this book gave a good glimpse into life at this time and the struggles that the people faced.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved reading the first five books from the Spies of the Civil War series by Sandra Merville Hart. I was excited to have the chance to read the sixth installment, Tides of Healing. I believe this one is by far my favorite of the series. I adored getting to know the main characters, Savannah and Travis. I thought they had great chemistry and wanted to keep turning the pages until I was completely finished with their story.


Five plus stars is what I will be giving Tides of Healing. I highly recommend it for fans of clean historical romance. I look forward to reading more reading from Sandra Merville Hart in the future.



I received a paperback copy of Sandra Merville Hart's Tides of Healing from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am going to start this review with this quote from the book. I really appreciate this quote.
"Never fear asking God for things you need, things that are bigger than you. He can say "yes" or "no" -that's up to Him. We can trust Him to decide. It may take a while to get the answer, and the answer may not be what we want, but we can have faith God will do the right thing. Don't be afraid to pray."

The book "Tides of Healing" by Sandra Merville Hart is the 6th book in this series and I think it was my favorite one. I recommend reading the entire series in order, I don't think you will be disappointed. It is about spies during the war, but it is also a clean love story. The ending had two surprises (well actually three) that I didn't see coming but it made the story that much greater.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tides of Healing by Sandra Merville Hart is a Christian Historical Romance. This book continues the Spies of the Civil War series. This story centers around Southern Belle Savannah Adair and First Lieutenant Travis Travis Lawson, who serves in the Union Army.

She wants to reclaim her life in Vicksburg and willingly spies. He is confronted by Savannah, who dislikes many changes he helps bring to Vicksburg.

The author builds storylines and characters that draw you into the story. While you probably could read this book on its own, I personally recommend reading the books in order.

So, if you are looking for a Christian Historical Romance, check out Tides of Healing by Sandra Merville Hart.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Wendy Andrus]

This is book six of the Spies of the Civil War series, and set in Vicksburg, Mississippi. I used to live not far from Vicksburg, which made it easy for me to picture the setting in my mind.

Tides of Healing is a captivating story, which brings out several concepts I never considered before. For one, what it was like for the Southern plantation owners to run their household without their servants. The ladies of the house didn't know how to cook, or clean house, or even fix their own hair.

There's a scene where Savanah and her mother weren't sure how to make coffee. I was amused, picturing it in my mind.

If you're looking for a story set during the Civil War, with a dose of faith and a touch of romance, be sure to grab your own copy.

I received a complimentary copy, These opinions are my own.

[Pegg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fine addition to Sandra Merville Hart’s Spies of the Civil War series. Once again, Hart paints the portrait of people who lived through the most cataclysmic event in United States history. Families were destroyed, landscapes decimated, and loyalties divided. But through Hart’s skillful pen, we see people who survived and overcame the conflict in their own lives.

I highly recommend reading this series in order. Although they are each a complete story of their own, the nuances of the minor characters will be better served by reading them in order.

I was privileged to read an early copy without expectation of a review, all opinions are my own.

[Joan Arning · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sandra Merville Hart does an excellent job of showing us what life could have been like in Vicksburg at the end of the civil war! Savannah Adair is a dedicated southerner who states "Abraham Lincoln is not my president, Lieutenant Lawson. I am not bound by his laws. I'll never accept Yankees in my city." But Travis Lawson shows Christian love to Savannah and the residents of Vicksburg. What a shock when he learns Savannah is a spy! You won't want to miss Tides of Healing as God brings healing between a Confederate and a Northerner! I received a complimentary e-book. This is my honest opinion.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is BOOK 6.
(Spies of the civil war)

I have been delighted with this civil war series.
If you have not started reading this series,
By Sandra Melville Heart.
Please consider starting at the beginning with
book 1.

The complete series is very well written.
I enjoyed the historical information provided in these books, also the interactions between the characters.

I would recommend this series to any reader that likes reading historical romances based on fact


🇳🇿💜📚

[Roni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two different points of view during the aftermath of the battle of Vicksburg. Savannah a true Southern Belle and First Lieutenant Travis of the Union Army, meet under stressing circumstances yet they gradually form a friendship based upon respect for each other. But Savannah is torn between her loyalty to the South and her growing love for Travis. Emotions make her an easy prey for a Confederate spy to persuade her to become a spy. Travis is tasked with finding spies and eventually what he fears becomes a reality.
R. Fody
Jan. 3, 2025

[Susan Mathis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through a fascinating storyline and endearing characters, Sandra Merville Hart takes readers on a journey back to the Civil War battle of Vicksburg. This wonderful character-driven page-turner, is an emotionally charged and captivating story of faith and hope. Beyond elements of love, loss, societal differences, divided loyalties, and a romantic attraction, unimaginable hardships are faced and faith grows. Highly recommended.—Susan G Mathis, author of the Love at a Lighthouse series

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book that holds your attention from the first page until the last.
The author has woven fact with fiction to make a book that once you start reading it, you can't put it down. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.