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A More Perfect Union #1
Emerald Fields
Russ Fields gave a lot to his country. He lost a brother and half his face to preserve the Union, only to come home and lose his beloved younger sister. When he writes to her friend in Pennsylvania with the devastating news, he never expects an answer.
Emmie Mason lost her fiancé during the Civil War, and her position at the hospital after the fighting stopped. But her greatest loss was her dearest friend to the fickle disease of influenza.
Letters of condolence begin something else, something special, between two people who have lost so much. But can the written word overcome stark reality?
Emmie Mason lost her fiancé during the Civil War, and her position at the hospital after the fighting stopped. But her greatest loss was her dearest friend to the fickle disease of influenza.
Letters of condolence begin something else, something special, between two people who have lost so much. But can the written word overcome stark reality?
289 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2025
181 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Pegg Thomas
29 books620 followersPegg Thomas lives in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with Michael, her husband of *mumble* years. She creates American stories with real history and fictional characters inspired by her ancestors who immigrated here in the early 1600s.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 28, 2022
Before the term PTSD had been coined, its effects were felt by soldiers of the first modern war, The American Civil War. Russ is a survivor of the brutal conflict, and it has left its scars on his body, mind and soul. And yet, in his ravaged soldier’s heart beats a tenderness and flickers a flame—his authentic self, which will not be buried by the residue of combat.
And juxtaposed to the inner turmoil of our complex hero is the serene setting of his sheep farm. The bucolic beauty plays a part in drawing the heroine to him. Emmie is a genteel and refined young lady from a well-to-do family. A native of Pittsburgh with its choking steel manufacturing in the very air, she longs for the fresh open spaces and blue skies of her best friend’s Michigan upbringing. When unexpected news regarding her dear friend opens a door linking her to her friend’s older brother Russ, the adventure and conflict begins.
Pegg Thomas is a skilled writer who simmers interesting plots infused with warmth, humor and honesty. I’m an avid reader—and writer—of Civil War fiction, and found this story authentic, well researched, and engaging. Thomas gives us yet another reason why this time in American history continues to draw loyal readership.
And juxtaposed to the inner turmoil of our complex hero is the serene setting of his sheep farm. The bucolic beauty plays a part in drawing the heroine to him. Emmie is a genteel and refined young lady from a well-to-do family. A native of Pittsburgh with its choking steel manufacturing in the very air, she longs for the fresh open spaces and blue skies of her best friend’s Michigan upbringing. When unexpected news regarding her dear friend opens a door linking her to her friend’s older brother Russ, the adventure and conflict begins.
Pegg Thomas is a skilled writer who simmers interesting plots infused with warmth, humor and honesty. I’m an avid reader—and writer—of Civil War fiction, and found this story authentic, well researched, and engaging. Thomas gives us yet another reason why this time in American history continues to draw loyal readership.
July 25, 2022
This book grabbed my attention from page one. It is a historical fiction full of emotions and very touching as I read about a returned from War soldier and a woman who lost her fiancé in the Civil War as well. The way their lives come together is a heartwarming story I won't soon forget. Emmie and Russ have a very lovely story and I am so happy that I read this book. It has all the feels! I couldn't put this one down. Had to know how things turned out. This book is the beginning of a new series. I don't want to miss even one book! So inspirational!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
March 12, 2022
When we think about the Civil War, we tend to think of the battles and the generals and the stirring words of Abraham Lincoln about forging "a more perfect union." After the war, we think of Reconstruction and carpetbaggers and sharecroppers. But what happened to the soldiers? That was the question that sparked this series.
Russ Fields served in the Michigan 7th Cavalry and returned after the war a very changed man. He's physically disfigured and suffering from PTSD, which was known at the time as Soldier's Heart. Back on the family farm with his younger sister, he tried to put his life back together, but when his sister succumbs to influenza, he's left isolated by a community that seems to have turned its back on him. He writes one letter, to his sister's long-time friend, and doesn't give it another thought. He settled into a lonely routine on the farm.
Emmie Mason is crushed by the loss of her former finishing school friend. Her friend's letters have been a ray of sunshine for Emmie for years, her link to a totally different life than gray, dreary Pittsburgh. Her hopes of ever seeing her friend's farm, of breathing its fresh air, are crushed. But she writes to her friend's brother to offer her sympathy, never imagining where that gesture would lead her.
As I often do, I used a little of my own family history in the minor character of John Lewis, my great-great-grandfather who served in Michigan's 7th Cavalry. He joined toward the end of the Civil War and then served out west during the Plains Indian Wars.
Those who have read my novella,
Embattled Hearts, will recognize Alannah and Stewart, who have moved to Jonesville, Michigan. It was fun writing them in and letting readers have a glimpse of their "rest of the story."
I fell in love with this project as I delved into how two people - vastly different in almost every way - could come together and find love. At its core, this is a story of overcoming intimidating obstacles. It's a story of courage and heart.
Russ Fields served in the Michigan 7th Cavalry and returned after the war a very changed man. He's physically disfigured and suffering from PTSD, which was known at the time as Soldier's Heart. Back on the family farm with his younger sister, he tried to put his life back together, but when his sister succumbs to influenza, he's left isolated by a community that seems to have turned its back on him. He writes one letter, to his sister's long-time friend, and doesn't give it another thought. He settled into a lonely routine on the farm.
Emmie Mason is crushed by the loss of her former finishing school friend. Her friend's letters have been a ray of sunshine for Emmie for years, her link to a totally different life than gray, dreary Pittsburgh. Her hopes of ever seeing her friend's farm, of breathing its fresh air, are crushed. But she writes to her friend's brother to offer her sympathy, never imagining where that gesture would lead her.
As I often do, I used a little of my own family history in the minor character of John Lewis, my great-great-grandfather who served in Michigan's 7th Cavalry. He joined toward the end of the Civil War and then served out west during the Plains Indian Wars.
Those who have read my novella,
Embattled Hearts, will recognize Alannah and Stewart, who have moved to Jonesville, Michigan. It was fun writing them in and letting readers have a glimpse of their "rest of the story."I fell in love with this project as I delved into how two people - vastly different in almost every way - could come together and find love. At its core, this is a story of overcoming intimidating obstacles. It's a story of courage and heart.
May 17, 2024
Pennsylvania & Michigan 1866
Lovely! A romance formed through the exchange of letters is so charming. Emmie is a lovely female main character. After her father leaves the only home she knows to her brother, she is determined to create her own future rather than rely on her brother's version of what's in her best interest. Russ is scarred by the US Civil War, both emotionally and physically. He strives to alienate himself from everyone in his hometown.
Mickey was a wonderful secondary character. Although very minor, Penny was a well written and "fun" addition to the novel.
Lovely! A romance formed through the exchange of letters is so charming. Emmie is a lovely female main character. After her father leaves the only home she knows to her brother, she is determined to create her own future rather than rely on her brother's version of what's in her best interest. Russ is scarred by the US Civil War, both emotionally and physically. He strives to alienate himself from everyone in his hometown.
Mickey was a wonderful secondary character. Although very minor, Penny was a well written and "fun" addition to the novel.
April 20, 2022
Emerald Fields highlighted an aspect of the Civil War not often discussed. The horrendous PTSD and mangled bodies of the soldier survivors. When a storyteller can weave issues so difficult to visit through characters that become real, you know that author has done the work to hone her craft. The book was refreshingly honest in dealing with trauma and combat injuries.
Emmie and Russ became real people to me and I had a hard time leaving them to come back to my world.
The letters they exchanged give readers a glimpse into life during that time period and into a pair of hurting and lonely hearts. The settings, the story, the history, all woven into a fictional tale that took me on an emotional journey where I experienced the time, places, and sweet romance of a man wounded in every way but still every bit a man, and a brave woman dealing with loss and trying to find her place in life.
Emmie is capable, admirable, and walks through the tale with a gritty determination and heart full of hope. Russ has integrity to spare, wisdom, kindness, and gallantry underneath a very rough exterior. A true tale of Beauty and the Beast in the post Civil War era.
I wouldn’t have missed it for the world and neither should you!
Emmie and Russ became real people to me and I had a hard time leaving them to come back to my world.
The letters they exchanged give readers a glimpse into life during that time period and into a pair of hurting and lonely hearts. The settings, the story, the history, all woven into a fictional tale that took me on an emotional journey where I experienced the time, places, and sweet romance of a man wounded in every way but still every bit a man, and a brave woman dealing with loss and trying to find her place in life.
Emmie is capable, admirable, and walks through the tale with a gritty determination and heart full of hope. Russ has integrity to spare, wisdom, kindness, and gallantry underneath a very rough exterior. A true tale of Beauty and the Beast in the post Civil War era.
I wouldn’t have missed it for the world and neither should you!
June 4, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Sweet and endearing, Emmie Mason falls in love with her best friend’s brother through correspondence. Emmie is a determined and strong heroine. This is a beautiful love story. Not a lot of romance but a lot of love. Fans of historical romance will want to add this to their To Read list!
December 9, 2023
I really really enjoyed the first half of this book! I waited for each letter between Russ and Emmy in anticipation of what they might say and watched how their friendship grew even without meeting one another. I think I had a different second half in my mind before it happened and so when it took a different turn than I thought, I was just a bit annoyed haha. But all's well that ends well.. You will enjoy this story!
July 22, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! I read the entire thing in one sitting! I really enjoyed the letters between Russ and Emmie and how it brought them together. I really look forward to reading more books in this series!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All Opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All Opinions expressed are mine alone.
July 14, 2022
A More Perfect Union, Book 1
What a wonderful story! I fell in love with characters who tugged at my heart—even the crusty ones. Lots of unexpected turns snatched my attention and I didn’t want to put the book down.
Thomas has given readers a well-written, unexpected, and satisfying story. What a beautiful story to begin this series. I loved this book!
Recommended for readers of inspirational historical romance.
What a wonderful story! I fell in love with characters who tugged at my heart—even the crusty ones. Lots of unexpected turns snatched my attention and I didn’t want to put the book down.
Thomas has given readers a well-written, unexpected, and satisfying story. What a beautiful story to begin this series. I loved this book!
Recommended for readers of inspirational historical romance.
May 30, 2022
Pegg Thomas is a gifted storyteller. That gift shines through as Emmie and Russ come to life in this well-researched historical loved story. Russ and Emmie’s struggles to find their way in a time when men didn’t speak of their war nightmares, and women weren’t allowed to think for themselves is beautifully portrayed in Emerald Fields. Once I started, I read uninterrupted until the last page. Then I sighed with satisfaction as well as regret that their story was over.
January 22, 2023
Emerald Fields is the first book in a series that will transport you to a time and place long forgotten, where men and women (North and South) struggled to make their way in a new era. You'll experience a bit of their lives after the Civil War, as they try to make peace with each other and themselves. Historically accurate, tastefully written, and a joy to read. Pegg Thomas has a talent for bringing her characters and stories to life. I've read this book as well as Cobalt Skies and can't wait to read Silver Prairies!
July 23, 2022
Something tentative opened a crack deep inside him.
You know how sometimes, when you finish a book, you have trouble coming back into the real world - this is just such a book!. This will pull the strings of all your emotions, making you wonder if you will ever be the same again. The rich detail keeps your attention and the raw emotion won’t let you go. Trying to help those suffering from PTSD or soldier’s heart, as they called it at that time, was just in the beginning stages. It would be many years before there would be a better understanding of the trauma for those who survived war.
But it wasn’t all sad - I absolutely loved the ram, even though he got himself into dreadful trouble. The descriptions of the fields and more were so vivid you could almost see the colors and even the snow. The lesson of learning to love in spite of visible and invisible scars will long be remembered.
An early copy of this first book in this series was received through Spinner of Yarns Publishing. These thoughts and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
You know how sometimes, when you finish a book, you have trouble coming back into the real world - this is just such a book!. This will pull the strings of all your emotions, making you wonder if you will ever be the same again. The rich detail keeps your attention and the raw emotion won’t let you go. Trying to help those suffering from PTSD or soldier’s heart, as they called it at that time, was just in the beginning stages. It would be many years before there would be a better understanding of the trauma for those who survived war.
But it wasn’t all sad - I absolutely loved the ram, even though he got himself into dreadful trouble. The descriptions of the fields and more were so vivid you could almost see the colors and even the snow. The lesson of learning to love in spite of visible and invisible scars will long be remembered.
An early copy of this first book in this series was received through Spinner of Yarns Publishing. These thoughts and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
October 6, 2022
Emerald Fields
Very enjoyable story. PTSD was not labeled as such during the Civil War but it existed and was just as real as it is today. A war hero deserves more respect than most of them ever receive. This story touched my heart.
Very enjoyable story. PTSD was not labeled as such during the Civil War but it existed and was just as real as it is today. A war hero deserves more respect than most of them ever receive. This story touched my heart.
January 15, 2023
I loved this book by Pegg Thomas. The art of correspondence has been lost and this story shows how important that can be. It also shows how much we can miss out on if we go only by the outward appearance. In addition we get romance, humor, and look at how actions and attitudes can be misunderstood. Never underestimate the importance of friends.
November 22, 2022
Loved the characters, the story line and the discovery of love between two different people. Best of all was the ending tying all of it together. Can’t wait to read Pegg’s next book. ❤️❤️
March 15, 2023
My Musings
An emotionally charged story with engaging characters and a heartfelt plot. I am glad I found this one in Kindle Unlimited. Happy reading!
An emotionally charged story with engaging characters and a heartfelt plot. I am glad I found this one in Kindle Unlimited. Happy reading!
July 24, 2022
When a book makes me cry, I know I have connected with the characters and the author has done her job. With this one, I was pretty much a blubbering mess for about the last 4 chapters. I loved Emmie and Russ and got caught up in their story. I couldn’t put it down.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
September 10, 2022
Emerald Fields #1 A More Perfect Union by Pegg Thomas
After serving in the Civil War Russ Fields finally returns home to his beloved younger sister, Becky and their farm. However, he is much changed; physically disfigured and suffering from Soldier's Heart (now known as PTSD). His life is further changed when his sister dies adding to his grief. In a letter he reaches out to his sister’s friend, Emmie Mason, to inform her of Becky's death. Not expecting a reply from Emmie, he is surprised when not only does she reply expressing her deepest sympathy but they continue to write letters. Two lonely people reaching out during difficult times creating a special bond. Emmie has lost much during the war as well, her finance and her position at the hospital after the fighting stops. But losing her dearest friend to influenza is her greatest loss.
I like that Pegg Thomas includes a little of her own family history within the storyline. I enjoyed the antics of the ram; he had me shaking my head at times and then laughing out loud. This is a story of overcoming overwhelming obstacles and challenges, life-altering events and heartache, courage and new beginnings, love and faith. A heartwarming story.
After serving in the Civil War Russ Fields finally returns home to his beloved younger sister, Becky and their farm. However, he is much changed; physically disfigured and suffering from Soldier's Heart (now known as PTSD). His life is further changed when his sister dies adding to his grief. In a letter he reaches out to his sister’s friend, Emmie Mason, to inform her of Becky's death. Not expecting a reply from Emmie, he is surprised when not only does she reply expressing her deepest sympathy but they continue to write letters. Two lonely people reaching out during difficult times creating a special bond. Emmie has lost much during the war as well, her finance and her position at the hospital after the fighting stops. But losing her dearest friend to influenza is her greatest loss.
I like that Pegg Thomas includes a little of her own family history within the storyline. I enjoyed the antics of the ram; he had me shaking my head at times and then laughing out loud. This is a story of overcoming overwhelming obstacles and challenges, life-altering events and heartache, courage and new beginnings, love and faith. A heartwarming story.
May 19, 2022
Author Pegg Thomas is fast becoming one of my favorite historical fiction authors. She takes unique approaches to the stories she writes and weaves in a little bit of her own family history creating truly fascinating, page-turning tales!
This beautiful take on a post-civil war story focuses on soldier Russ Fields, who comes home to his family farm with PTSD, then called Soldier's Heart, and a disfigured face, only to lose his father and sister in short order, after having lost a brother to the war. He writes to his sister's best friend, Emmie Mason to inform her that his sister Becky died of influenza. What began as a letter of notification, and the responding letter of condolence, turns into a beautiful letter writing friendship between Russ and Emmie. "He'd brightened her day. Her whole week. When was the last time he'd brightened anyone's day?"
This is a beautiful and honest look at the hardships some of the returning soldiers might have lived with and hoped to overcome. I love how Russ takes in an orphaned young man to keep him off the streets and to help Russ on his farm. They have a sweet friendship. He seems content to be isolated on his farm except for his once-a-week ride into town. He's not actually ready to meet Emmie when she unexpectedly travels to his town and barrels down his driveway. They come from two completely different worlds and because of his war experiences, he is damaged and feels unworthy of her. "Soon. She might see the man who had captured her heart letter by letter. Dare she hope that he felt the same? Or was she simply the silly girl Archie (her brother) thought her to be? "
I enjoyed Emmie and Russ and the challenges they faced and the strengths they each had, as well as the entire entertaining cast of characters. I really hope some of these characters make appearances in book two! I love that moment when you realize why the book has its name. Great ending! Author Pegg Thomas skillfully places the reader right in the scene and her impeccable research gives you a vivid glimpse of that time period.
I highly recommend Emerald Fields for fans of historical fiction, and romance. Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
This beautiful take on a post-civil war story focuses on soldier Russ Fields, who comes home to his family farm with PTSD, then called Soldier's Heart, and a disfigured face, only to lose his father and sister in short order, after having lost a brother to the war. He writes to his sister's best friend, Emmie Mason to inform her that his sister Becky died of influenza. What began as a letter of notification, and the responding letter of condolence, turns into a beautiful letter writing friendship between Russ and Emmie. "He'd brightened her day. Her whole week. When was the last time he'd brightened anyone's day?"
This is a beautiful and honest look at the hardships some of the returning soldiers might have lived with and hoped to overcome. I love how Russ takes in an orphaned young man to keep him off the streets and to help Russ on his farm. They have a sweet friendship. He seems content to be isolated on his farm except for his once-a-week ride into town. He's not actually ready to meet Emmie when she unexpectedly travels to his town and barrels down his driveway. They come from two completely different worlds and because of his war experiences, he is damaged and feels unworthy of her. "Soon. She might see the man who had captured her heart letter by letter. Dare she hope that he felt the same? Or was she simply the silly girl Archie (her brother) thought her to be? "
I enjoyed Emmie and Russ and the challenges they faced and the strengths they each had, as well as the entire entertaining cast of characters. I really hope some of these characters make appearances in book two! I love that moment when you realize why the book has its name. Great ending! Author Pegg Thomas skillfully places the reader right in the scene and her impeccable research gives you a vivid glimpse of that time period.
I highly recommend Emerald Fields for fans of historical fiction, and romance. Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
August 9, 2022
A page turner!!! I read this wonderful book for endorsement. Clear your schedule because once you start this compelling post-Civil War novel you won't want to set it down!
March 17, 2022
I’m a complete Civil War buff and knew I would enjoy Pegg Thomas’ latest, Emerald Fields. But what I really liked most is the fact that the story is set post-Civil War and gave an entirely different perspective than most fictional accounts.
As always, Mrs. Thomas’ research helped her dig deep into the era and by getting to know the main character, Russ, we were able to understand the issues those returning from war face. My heart ached at the thought of so many undiagnosed conditions and those who never got the help they needed. Touching on PTSD, physical deformities, and other emotional conditions, we glimpse the pain experienced by brave soldiers, and I cheered for Russ and his healing.
The female lead, Emmie, was easy to root for because she went against convention, striking out in an effort to control her own destiny. Despite the objections of her overprotective brothers, she sought her own best interest as opposed to being shackled to a traditional life. While her family’s intentions may have been purely motivated and her methods questionable, she followed her heart to seek God’s destiny first. As we all should.
When Russ and Emmie finally come together, I was drawn in as they overcame many obstacles, and liked the fact that the author didn’t make it all neat and tidy. Life isn’t like that, and I love how Thomas always ups the ante to give us plenty of story line and plot—no sweetsy, unrealistic romance here.
Loved it.
As always, Mrs. Thomas’ research helped her dig deep into the era and by getting to know the main character, Russ, we were able to understand the issues those returning from war face. My heart ached at the thought of so many undiagnosed conditions and those who never got the help they needed. Touching on PTSD, physical deformities, and other emotional conditions, we glimpse the pain experienced by brave soldiers, and I cheered for Russ and his healing.
The female lead, Emmie, was easy to root for because she went against convention, striking out in an effort to control her own destiny. Despite the objections of her overprotective brothers, she sought her own best interest as opposed to being shackled to a traditional life. While her family’s intentions may have been purely motivated and her methods questionable, she followed her heart to seek God’s destiny first. As we all should.
When Russ and Emmie finally come together, I was drawn in as they overcame many obstacles, and liked the fact that the author didn’t make it all neat and tidy. Life isn’t like that, and I love how Thomas always ups the ante to give us plenty of story line and plot—no sweetsy, unrealistic romance here.
Loved it.
August 2, 2022
Pegg Thomas is off to a great start with the release of book 1 in her new A More Perfect Union series. Placed within the aftermath of the Civil War, Emmie Mason has just received a letter informing her that Becky Fields, her best friend from finishing school, has passed away from influenza. She is distraught with life in Pittsburgh as her circumstances continue to change. She replies to Russ Fields letter and creates a glimpse of hope for a future she can choose for herself.
Dealing with the loss of his sister and his fellow soldier buddies, Russ Fields is embracing loneliness and isolation on his farm in Jonesville, Michigan as he tries to recover from the atrocities of the war. Although he has physical injuries that keep him from going to church and town too often, his emotional injuries plague him night and day. He finds solace in the letter from Emmie and forges a new friendship that he can trust.
Peg Thomas pens a beautiful story that reminds us of the beauty of letters written from the heart. This is a slow burn romance which, to me, is very realistic of the proper way of relationships in this time period. Feelings were kept close to the heart, family members interfered and being too forward was not acceptable for either party. Moreover, Russ and Becky both have insecurities that keep them from believing the other could love them as they were. At times, this book was an emotional read. I ached for them and cried for them. Along with being a wonderful historical romance, I appreciated the meaningful spiritual arc which is written in the dialogue and character’s lives of this story. That, for me, made it a 5* book.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
Dealing with the loss of his sister and his fellow soldier buddies, Russ Fields is embracing loneliness and isolation on his farm in Jonesville, Michigan as he tries to recover from the atrocities of the war. Although he has physical injuries that keep him from going to church and town too often, his emotional injuries plague him night and day. He finds solace in the letter from Emmie and forges a new friendship that he can trust.
Peg Thomas pens a beautiful story that reminds us of the beauty of letters written from the heart. This is a slow burn romance which, to me, is very realistic of the proper way of relationships in this time period. Feelings were kept close to the heart, family members interfered and being too forward was not acceptable for either party. Moreover, Russ and Becky both have insecurities that keep them from believing the other could love them as they were. At times, this book was an emotional read. I ached for them and cried for them. Along with being a wonderful historical romance, I appreciated the meaningful spiritual arc which is written in the dialogue and character’s lives of this story. That, for me, made it a 5* book.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
September 28, 2022
Emerald Fields one of the best books I've read in a long time.
Post Civil War and Russ lives on the farm his family owned. He is missing an eye and scarred on his face from fighting in the war. He just lost his younger sister Becky, he writes a letter to Becky's best friend to inform her of Becky's death.
Emmie is so upset but Thankful that Russ notifies her of her friends death. Emmie writes a letter back and they start a friendship of letter writing and both Russ and Emmie look forward to the letters to fill in their lonely lives.
Great characters and very interesting story. Looking forward to Pegg Thomas new book Cobalt Skies.
Post Civil War and Russ lives on the farm his family owned. He is missing an eye and scarred on his face from fighting in the war. He just lost his younger sister Becky, he writes a letter to Becky's best friend to inform her of Becky's death.
Emmie is so upset but Thankful that Russ notifies her of her friends death. Emmie writes a letter back and they start a friendship of letter writing and both Russ and Emmie look forward to the letters to fill in their lonely lives.
Great characters and very interesting story. Looking forward to Pegg Thomas new book Cobalt Skies.
November 15, 2022
This is probably my favorite book that Pegg Thomas has written. It's a love story in 1866 in PA. and MI. Emmie Mason lost her finance to the Civil War, then her best friend, Becky died followed by the death of her father. She knew Becky from attending finishing school together and Becky wrote letters describing their farm in MI. After Becky's death Emmie decided to write to her brother to extend condolences. Russ responds and they continue corresponding for several weeks. Ater Emmie's father passes her older brother decides he's going to marry Emmie off. Emmie definitely has different ideas about that.
December 13, 2022
This is a beautiful heart rendering story of two lonely people suffering from loss and grief and their relationship that came about as a result of condolence correspondence between them. This is Emmie Mason and Russ Fields' story, and the character development is outstanding. Will emotional and mental healing come about through their correspondence and perhaps grow into a deeper relationship? Be sure and read this real page turner to find out; I know you will enjoy it as much as I did. I also appreciate the author's detail to historical facts; it is obvious she has done a lot of research. I look forward to the next book in the series.
August 7, 2022
Another Hit
This was a step in a different direction from the colonial books (which I love) that the authors written. The touch of humor at times helped balance the seriousness of what Russ was going through. I cannot imagine what horrors-sights,smells, etc, that those soldiers experienced. At least now we have treatment for PTSD. As a army veterans wife, I've witnessed the stigma that is still present among soldiers, etc that they're somehow "weak" for seeking help. I think the author did a fantastic job with this novel. I can't wait for the next!
This was a step in a different direction from the colonial books (which I love) that the authors written. The touch of humor at times helped balance the seriousness of what Russ was going through. I cannot imagine what horrors-sights,smells, etc, that those soldiers experienced. At least now we have treatment for PTSD. As a army veterans wife, I've witnessed the stigma that is still present among soldiers, etc that they're somehow "weak" for seeking help. I think the author did a fantastic job with this novel. I can't wait for the next!
January 18, 2023
This book is definitely a little different style than other books by this author that I have read, but it is still well written and good. It has more romance and not so focused on history as her Forts of Refuge series(which to me are the best books ever) but I do plan to continue reading this series. Just keep in mind if you are expecting something similar to The Forts of Refuge series, this isn't gonna have the same vibe. I give this 🌟🌟🌟🌟
September 27, 2022
Emerald Fields
This book is my first experience with this author, but definitely not my last. The story is interesting with great characters, giving a good impression of what survivors of the civil war could have faced after the war was over. I recommend this book.
This book is my first experience with this author, but definitely not my last. The story is interesting with great characters, giving a good impression of what survivors of the civil war could have faced after the war was over. I recommend this book.
August 7, 2022
Terrific read!!! I could hardly put it down. The characters were so compelling and their parts to make this an incredible story. Friendship, heartache, personal struggles, and even love. I really enjoyed the ending. :)
January 31, 2024
Excellent
This was such a great story! Pegg, you out did yourself. I recommend this book! What wonderful storyteller! Thank you for sharing your gift! ❤️📖📖❤️
This was such a great story! Pegg, you out did yourself. I recommend this book! What wonderful storyteller! Thank you for sharing your gift! ❤️📖📖❤️
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