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Sisters at Heart #1
Emily sommer der Sehnsucht
Emily lebt bei ihrem alten Großvater in Missouri. Nach dem Krieg ist er ihr als Einziger von ihrer Familie geblieben. Emily führt seinen Laden. Sie will aber unbedingt nach Westen gehen, um die traurigen Erinnerungen hinter sich zu lassen. Zwei Männer werben um sie: der charmante Royal und der schüchterne Curt. Wie wird sie sich entscheiden? (diese Variante für Leporello-Flyer!!!) Längere Variante: Emily lebt bei ihrem Großvater in Missouri. Er ist ihr nach dem amerikanischen Bürgerkrieg als Einziger von ihrer Familie geblieben. Emily führt seinen Laden, denn den Großvater lässt manchmal sein Gedächtnis im Stich. Sie will aber unbedingt auf einen Treck nach Westen gehen, um die traurigen Erinnerungen hinter sich zu lassen. Zwei Männer werben um Emily: der charmante Royal und der hilfsbereite, aber schüchterne Curt, den seine Kriegserfahrungen verfolgen. Wie wird sie sich entscheiden?
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First published December 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
December 21, 2011
Where the Wildflowers Bloom is what I call a couch, blanket and a cup of cocoa book. From the first page you want to snuggle under a quilt and read all day--even better if it is a rainy day.
Faith Lindberg dreams of the day Royal Baxter returns, and if he doesn't come home soon she's leaving Nobel Springs, Missouri. She's taking her grandfather and heading west to Oregon--far from the painful memories of family that were killed in the war, or died of disease.
Shorey adds details to the setting in such a way you feel that you are in the Lindberg Mercantile while she dusts the merchandise, and when she walks home at night you can see it. That's it! This book felt like I was watching a moving take place rather than reading it.
Back Cover:
The Civil War stole a father and brother from Faith Lindberg--as well a Royal Baxter, the man she wanted to marry. With only her grandfather left, she dreams of leaving Noble Springs, Missouri, and traveling west to Oregon to start a new life, away form the memories that haunt her.But first she must convince her grandfather to sell the family's mercantile and leave a town their family has called home for generations.
when Royal Baxter suddenly returns, Faith allows herself to hope that she and royal will finally wed. but does he truly love her? Or will another man claim her heart?
Faith Lindberg dreams of the day Royal Baxter returns, and if he doesn't come home soon she's leaving Nobel Springs, Missouri. She's taking her grandfather and heading west to Oregon--far from the painful memories of family that were killed in the war, or died of disease.
Shorey adds details to the setting in such a way you feel that you are in the Lindberg Mercantile while she dusts the merchandise, and when she walks home at night you can see it. That's it! This book felt like I was watching a moving take place rather than reading it.
Back Cover:
The Civil War stole a father and brother from Faith Lindberg--as well a Royal Baxter, the man she wanted to marry. With only her grandfather left, she dreams of leaving Noble Springs, Missouri, and traveling west to Oregon to start a new life, away form the memories that haunt her.But first she must convince her grandfather to sell the family's mercantile and leave a town their family has called home for generations.
when Royal Baxter suddenly returns, Faith allows herself to hope that she and royal will finally wed. but does he truly love her? Or will another man claim her heart?
March 26, 2015
I really couldn't get into this book. Its author is clearly a talented wordsmith, the book had a lot of things going for it, but the heroine was just too darn weird. Trust me, Faith, you don't have to go to such extremes to create needless problems for yourself, life will just provide you with plenty of difficulties anyway. Faith's obsession with Oregon made no sense as hard reality kept dropping into her lap over and over, yet even after allowing herself to briefly see the light, she would just forget about it and go back to perseverating about Oregon again...and again. The author isn't clear on just what is the source of Faith's impaired thought processes and dysfuncional behavior...Obsessive/Compulsive Disorder, Organic Brain Damage, both? So, she wanted to move someplace without memories (why not just blank them out and ignore them, just like she does to reality, she's good at that?) but why Oregon, instead of say...Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville? What would she do for a living there after wasting the proceeds of illegally selling her grandfather's store out from under him to get there? Farm? She said she didn't know how to grow anything. But the question of how to survive in Oregon is probably irrelevant when the long grueling trip was guaranteed to kill her grandfather, probably Faith as well (if Royal didn't do so first), and no real wagon-master would sign on people who were incapable of holding their own because catering to their needs would jeopardize the safety of everyone else. And when it comes to weird obsessions that make no sense because hard reality keeps presenting itself over and over, how about her obsession with Royal Baxter, no skip that, I don't even want to go there. And speaking of impaired reality contact, how about that dumb sheriff, "Look, I can ignore all the evidence that is right in front of my nose to show that I have even more brain damage than the dumb bimbo! Nyah, I win!" Okay, maybe I am being too realistic, but I always find that a spoonful of realism helps the fiction go down in a more delightful way.
March 11, 2015
I was so excited when this book was free on kindle at the beginning of the year. Though I was initially not super enthusiastic about reading it, when I saw it would be free I jumped at the chance to read it. I ended up loving it way more than I thought I would.
January 26, 2015
I have enjoyed past stories from Ann Shorey; but this one left me with very little enjoyment. Faith and Curt's story was not a favorite. I really don't care for characters who don't speak up. I was waiting on Faith and Curt to speak up through-out the whole book. With all the uncertainty; it left it quite boring for me.
December 31, 2014
This was a fairly food book. I kept getting aggravated with Faith. She kept trying to sell her grandfather's store, even after he kept telling her he did not want to sell out and move to Oregon. Then she decides to marry Royal, just so she can get to Oregon, even though she did not love him.
March 30, 2015
Well written with well written characters but the main character annoyed me most of the time.
December 22, 2011
WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM is a wonderfully enjoyable novel. I'd give it 4 1/2 stars if there were a way to do that!
I like mystery/suspense novels or well-written historicals. This novel falls into the second category, with just the slightest hint of mystery/suspense. The setting is well-researched with hundreds of little details that seem small but added together paint a clear picture of 1866.
This is the second historical romance I've read this year in which the hero suffers from what we now call PTSD - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In both stories, the problem is shown believably as a real condition. In WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM, Curt Saxon was wounded in the Civil War and now bears a prominent scar to mark his service. He is also plagued by nightmares, headaches, and flashbacks where he thinks he's in combat once more. Since moving to Noble Springs, MO, he's been attracted to Faith Linberg. But what would a pretty young woman from a respectable family want with a disfigured livery hand? Still, he can't help doing whatever it takes to be her friend.
Faith is put off by Curt's appearance at first, but only because she fears he may be just another one of the vagrants so common in town since the war ended. His actions, and kind, gentle nature, quickly dispell her doubts. Then she befriends Curt's sister and it seems romance may be in the works.
Unfortunately life isn't that simple! Faith has been anxiously awaiting the return of Royal Baxter, whom she believes herself to be in love with. Just as Faith has made up her mind to get Grandpa to sell the family store and move West with her, Royal arrives back in town. Perhaps now Faith will marry and settle down in Noble Springs? Except Royal has his heart set on becoming an officer in the US Army and he thinks moving to Oregon might provide better opportunity. Is this Faith's chance to get away from painful memories? Or will her new friendships prove to be stronger ties to the town where she grew up?
The mystery/suspense comes in when the Lindberg Mercantile is robbed. The sheriff supspects Curt. Faith is determined to find the real culprits and clear Curt's name. Honestly, I figured out "who done it" early on, for the most part, but it was fun "watching" everyone try to solve the crime.
Another story thread is Grandpa's dementia. In 1866 they didn't call it Alhzeimer's and more often than not an afflicted person would be put into an asylum. Grandpa's actions and the reactions of those around him are realistic and at times heart-wrenching.
All in all, this novel has depth that will keep the reader turning pages right up to the end. The only critism I could possibly give is that the title has almost no connection to the story. But for one brief mention about meadows of wildflowers in Oregon, there's nothing to make the reader think, "Ah, that's why the title." So what? Whatever the title, this is a novel to be recommended to anyone who enjoys historical romance. I give it 5 stars!
I like mystery/suspense novels or well-written historicals. This novel falls into the second category, with just the slightest hint of mystery/suspense. The setting is well-researched with hundreds of little details that seem small but added together paint a clear picture of 1866.
This is the second historical romance I've read this year in which the hero suffers from what we now call PTSD - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In both stories, the problem is shown believably as a real condition. In WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM, Curt Saxon was wounded in the Civil War and now bears a prominent scar to mark his service. He is also plagued by nightmares, headaches, and flashbacks where he thinks he's in combat once more. Since moving to Noble Springs, MO, he's been attracted to Faith Linberg. But what would a pretty young woman from a respectable family want with a disfigured livery hand? Still, he can't help doing whatever it takes to be her friend.
Faith is put off by Curt's appearance at first, but only because she fears he may be just another one of the vagrants so common in town since the war ended. His actions, and kind, gentle nature, quickly dispell her doubts. Then she befriends Curt's sister and it seems romance may be in the works.
Unfortunately life isn't that simple! Faith has been anxiously awaiting the return of Royal Baxter, whom she believes herself to be in love with. Just as Faith has made up her mind to get Grandpa to sell the family store and move West with her, Royal arrives back in town. Perhaps now Faith will marry and settle down in Noble Springs? Except Royal has his heart set on becoming an officer in the US Army and he thinks moving to Oregon might provide better opportunity. Is this Faith's chance to get away from painful memories? Or will her new friendships prove to be stronger ties to the town where she grew up?
The mystery/suspense comes in when the Lindberg Mercantile is robbed. The sheriff supspects Curt. Faith is determined to find the real culprits and clear Curt's name. Honestly, I figured out "who done it" early on, for the most part, but it was fun "watching" everyone try to solve the crime.
Another story thread is Grandpa's dementia. In 1866 they didn't call it Alhzeimer's and more often than not an afflicted person would be put into an asylum. Grandpa's actions and the reactions of those around him are realistic and at times heart-wrenching.
All in all, this novel has depth that will keep the reader turning pages right up to the end. The only critism I could possibly give is that the title has almost no connection to the story. But for one brief mention about meadows of wildflowers in Oregon, there's nothing to make the reader think, "Ah, that's why the title." So what? Whatever the title, this is a novel to be recommended to anyone who enjoys historical romance. I give it 5 stars!
September 13, 2013
Step inside the Lindberg Mercantile and you’ll see two chairs hugging the checkerboard table with the regulars Mr Grisbee and Mr Slocum slouched over a game in process. Pull up a chair to watch the animated game while you’re warming up next to the stove from the crisp chill outside. A glance over your shoulder will recognize the ever hard-working Faith behind the counter, struggling to make the store run a profit whilst burdened with recent store robberies and her increasingly forgetful grandfather. Perhaps give a nod of encouragement to her, sympathizing as you observe her enduring snobbery and persecution knowing that these days were a time when it was often frowned upon for women to work in professions.
In this realistic and heart-warming historical tale set in 1866 not too long after the Civil War finished, Faith Lindberg desperately longs to leave Noble Springs, Missouri, far behind along with its painful memories of losing her brother and father in the war. She dreams of travelling with new settlers out west to Oregon with her grandfather. Only one thing stands in her way at first, and that is to talk her grandfather into selling. She is convinced she is doing this predominantly for him and will help him to be happier and to thrive once again. Is it herself though, that is trying to run away from the aching memories?
When the handsome Royal Baxter arrives back in town from the war and takes up in interest in her, Faith can hardly believe it. And when he says he will take her to Oregon, she feels her dreams are finally coming true. So then why is it she continues to think of the moody Curt Saxon who works at the Livery? Curt’s sister Rosemary Saxon who was a nurse during the war, has become a close friend of Faith’s, and it pains Faith to have to say good-bye to the best friend she has ever had. However Faith has to do what is best for her grandfather, and soon her plans are well under way.
Before you help pack up the checkerboard pieces, a glance around the store reveals the Sheriff now chatting to Faith about a recent robbery, prompting an unnerving feeling. Who could it be breaking in and stealing the Lindberg’s valuable merchandise? Another quick glimpse in the direction of the kitchen goods reveals Rosemary busily dusting them with her feather duster, while the Sheriff snatches peeks at her. With a sigh, you head out of the double doors of the mercantile, bemoaning the day its doors will close on this deep-rooted piece of Noble Springs.
‘Where the Wildflowers Bloom’ has a gentle but strong pulse that beats its way into your heart touching your spirit with the messages of friendship and faith, and compelling you with its intrigue and sweet romance. A thoroughly enjoyable read!
In this realistic and heart-warming historical tale set in 1866 not too long after the Civil War finished, Faith Lindberg desperately longs to leave Noble Springs, Missouri, far behind along with its painful memories of losing her brother and father in the war. She dreams of travelling with new settlers out west to Oregon with her grandfather. Only one thing stands in her way at first, and that is to talk her grandfather into selling. She is convinced she is doing this predominantly for him and will help him to be happier and to thrive once again. Is it herself though, that is trying to run away from the aching memories?
When the handsome Royal Baxter arrives back in town from the war and takes up in interest in her, Faith can hardly believe it. And when he says he will take her to Oregon, she feels her dreams are finally coming true. So then why is it she continues to think of the moody Curt Saxon who works at the Livery? Curt’s sister Rosemary Saxon who was a nurse during the war, has become a close friend of Faith’s, and it pains Faith to have to say good-bye to the best friend she has ever had. However Faith has to do what is best for her grandfather, and soon her plans are well under way.
Before you help pack up the checkerboard pieces, a glance around the store reveals the Sheriff now chatting to Faith about a recent robbery, prompting an unnerving feeling. Who could it be breaking in and stealing the Lindberg’s valuable merchandise? Another quick glimpse in the direction of the kitchen goods reveals Rosemary busily dusting them with her feather duster, while the Sheriff snatches peeks at her. With a sigh, you head out of the double doors of the mercantile, bemoaning the day its doors will close on this deep-rooted piece of Noble Springs.
‘Where the Wildflowers Bloom’ has a gentle but strong pulse that beats its way into your heart touching your spirit with the messages of friendship and faith, and compelling you with its intrigue and sweet romance. A thoroughly enjoyable read!
January 21, 2012
Title: WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM
Author: Ann Shorey
Publisher: Revell
January 2012
ISBN: 978-0800720742
Genre: Inspirational/historical
Faith Lindberg lost her father and brother to the Civil War—maybe. They hadn’t shown up on the casualties list, yet, but she is left alone with her grandfather. She also dreams about another soldier, Royal Baxter, a man who took her hair ribbon and her heart, five years ago.
Now Faith’s grandfather is ailing. He is leaving her in charge of their mercantile, but Faith wants to get away from her haunting memories and start a new life in the Oregon territory. But business is failing, losing many customers due to the fact that a woman is running it. The older customers especially think it is shameful.
Curt Saxon has demons of his own, facing war-time nightmares when his memory fails him and he’s fighting an invisible enemy. He knows he’s in no place to court a woman, but he does befriend Faith’s grandfather and helps them out when he can. Still, he hopes someday to be in a position where he can speak to Faith.
When Royal come home, Faith allows herself to dream that they’ll finally wed. But does he truly love her? Or will Curt claim her heart?
WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM is book one in Ms. Shorey’s new series Sisters at Heart. I love Ms. Shorey’s historical romances and couldn’t wait to settle down and read WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM. I wasn’t disappointed. I could feel Faith’s worry over her grandfather who was becoming increasingly unstable both mentally and physically, and her frustration when the townsfolk won’t support her grandfather’s business because she is forced to run it.
Curt too was heartbreakingly real. I’ve read about other men who battled post-war disorders (I can’t remember what its called) but it is a very real disease. I hoped he’d find peace with his demons and be able to embrace a normal life.
I thoroughly enjoyed WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM and highly recommend this book. $14.99. 328 pages.
Author: Ann Shorey
Publisher: Revell
January 2012
ISBN: 978-0800720742
Genre: Inspirational/historical
Faith Lindberg lost her father and brother to the Civil War—maybe. They hadn’t shown up on the casualties list, yet, but she is left alone with her grandfather. She also dreams about another soldier, Royal Baxter, a man who took her hair ribbon and her heart, five years ago.
Now Faith’s grandfather is ailing. He is leaving her in charge of their mercantile, but Faith wants to get away from her haunting memories and start a new life in the Oregon territory. But business is failing, losing many customers due to the fact that a woman is running it. The older customers especially think it is shameful.
Curt Saxon has demons of his own, facing war-time nightmares when his memory fails him and he’s fighting an invisible enemy. He knows he’s in no place to court a woman, but he does befriend Faith’s grandfather and helps them out when he can. Still, he hopes someday to be in a position where he can speak to Faith.
When Royal come home, Faith allows herself to dream that they’ll finally wed. But does he truly love her? Or will Curt claim her heart?
WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM is book one in Ms. Shorey’s new series Sisters at Heart. I love Ms. Shorey’s historical romances and couldn’t wait to settle down and read WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM. I wasn’t disappointed. I could feel Faith’s worry over her grandfather who was becoming increasingly unstable both mentally and physically, and her frustration when the townsfolk won’t support her grandfather’s business because she is forced to run it.
Curt too was heartbreakingly real. I’ve read about other men who battled post-war disorders (I can’t remember what its called) but it is a very real disease. I hoped he’d find peace with his demons and be able to embrace a normal life.
I thoroughly enjoyed WHERE WILDFLOWERS BLOOM and highly recommend this book. $14.99. 328 pages.
January 25, 2012
Faith Lindberg's father and brother died while serving in the Civil War. Having also lost her mother when she was young, all the family she has left now is her grandfather, Judge Nate Lindberg.
When Faith was sixteen, she met Royle Baxter who was leaving for war. Since then, she has held hope that they would one day marry. But is he the man she dreamed about or will someone else come into her life?
Where Wildflowers Bloom is the first book in Ann Shorey's new series, Sisters at Heart, and the first book I've read by her.
While I thought this book sounded good before I even started reading it, Where Wildflowers Bloom exceeded my expectations and I ended up loving the whole book!
From stolen merchandise, war flashbacks, love, and a dream of moving to Oregon; Where Wildflowers Bloom was a great read! I loved the characters, especially Curt. Being a Veteran, he had scars - both physical and mental. There was just so much to his character and I hope in the next Sisters at Heart novel, we see more of him!
Although this is historical fiction, there also was some mystery. I personally was wondering who stole the merchandise from the store and if the culprit(s) would get caught.
As I said, I loved Where Wildflowers Bloom and I think if you enjoy books in the historical fiction genre, you will too! Completely recommend!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
“Available January 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
When Faith was sixteen, she met Royle Baxter who was leaving for war. Since then, she has held hope that they would one day marry. But is he the man she dreamed about or will someone else come into her life?
Where Wildflowers Bloom is the first book in Ann Shorey's new series, Sisters at Heart, and the first book I've read by her.
While I thought this book sounded good before I even started reading it, Where Wildflowers Bloom exceeded my expectations and I ended up loving the whole book!
From stolen merchandise, war flashbacks, love, and a dream of moving to Oregon; Where Wildflowers Bloom was a great read! I loved the characters, especially Curt. Being a Veteran, he had scars - both physical and mental. There was just so much to his character and I hope in the next Sisters at Heart novel, we see more of him!
Although this is historical fiction, there also was some mystery. I personally was wondering who stole the merchandise from the store and if the culprit(s) would get caught.
As I said, I loved Where Wildflowers Bloom and I think if you enjoy books in the historical fiction genre, you will too! Completely recommend!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
“Available January 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
November 4, 2014
If you enjoy light, quality historical fiction, then you will certainly want to put "Where Wildflowers Bloom" on your "to-read" list. This post Civil War novel reflects the deep sorrow and intense decisions that many families experienced during this critical time period in American history. Faith Lindberg is convinced that she can escape the sadness of losing a beloved father and brother by moving far away from her home town of Noble Springs, Missouri and starting over on the Oregon frontier. And when a childhood "crush" suddenly re-appears and offers to help her do just that, she is sorely tempted to accept a proposal of marriage in order to follow her dream.
On the other hand, Curt Saxon is convinced that Noble Springs is exactly where he wants to live and work and eventually raise a family. But he is plagued with intense flashbacks from his years on the war front. In the interim, he continues to work at the local livery where he eventually crosses paths with the pretty proprietor of the town's mercantile. Can their relationship ever move beyond friendship, especially if Faith decides to marry someone else?
This is only Book One of a three part series; "Sisters at Heart". So there is much more "story" in Noble Springs!
On the other hand, Curt Saxon is convinced that Noble Springs is exactly where he wants to live and work and eventually raise a family. But he is plagued with intense flashbacks from his years on the war front. In the interim, he continues to work at the local livery where he eventually crosses paths with the pretty proprietor of the town's mercantile. Can their relationship ever move beyond friendship, especially if Faith decides to marry someone else?
This is only Book One of a three part series; "Sisters at Heart". So there is much more "story" in Noble Springs!
March 19, 2015
This lovely book follows young lady Faith Lindberg as she works on the family business(which was most improper for a lady at the time) while taking care of her forgetful grandfather and planning her so dreamed trip to Oregon, in the hopes of starting anew.
The setting and pacing of this book was most pleasing, with the characters being well introduced and at proper times. I am not someone who can talk about how accurate it was regarding the time period but, regardless, it presented a very clear picture of Noble Spring.
While I really enjoyed the book as a whole, I found the ending to be a bit lacking in comparison with the rest, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
3.5/5
The setting and pacing of this book was most pleasing, with the characters being well introduced and at proper times. I am not someone who can talk about how accurate it was regarding the time period but, regardless, it presented a very clear picture of Noble Spring.
While I really enjoyed the book as a whole, I found the ending to be a bit lacking in comparison with the rest, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
3.5/5
June 9, 2017
What wildflowers?
Sadly, I can't remember disliking a main character so much. So many times I was ready to quit reading, but I persevered hoping something would save the story. Faith was selfish and single minded to the point that I didn't care about her and her foolish decisions. It kinda made me wonder why Curt was even interested in her. The climax was rather anti-. The happy ever after too short. Overall, the story seemed to plod along at a rather predictable pace, like old Moses in the story. I liked the title but still trying to figure out how it relates to the story.
Not a fan.
Sadly, I can't remember disliking a main character so much. So many times I was ready to quit reading, but I persevered hoping something would save the story. Faith was selfish and single minded to the point that I didn't care about her and her foolish decisions. It kinda made me wonder why Curt was even interested in her. The climax was rather anti-. The happy ever after too short. Overall, the story seemed to plod along at a rather predictable pace, like old Moses in the story. I liked the title but still trying to figure out how it relates to the story.
Not a fan.
July 4, 2012
Ann Shorey has created a likeable heroine in Faith Lindberg - she's sweet and compassionate, but strong enough to stand up for what's right. Curt Saxon is an intriguing hero as he falls for Faith but keeps his distance while he wrestles with his "soldier's heart" - what we now call Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Ann Shorey's writing draws me right in, with lovely phrasing and plenty of humor. I highly recommend this novel, and I'm looking forward to the next two books in the Sisters of the Heart series.
May 6, 2016
"Wherever you go, you take your thoughts with you. Memories and all."
Faith wants to run away from her memories and start fresh, but this is not as easy to do as she expected. Her grandfather doesn't want to "pull up roots" and move, and she cannot leave him behind. Plus there are other circumstances that hinder a quick getaway.
I enjoyed reading this book with drama, romance and suspense and gave it 3.5 ⭐️
Thanks to BookBub and iBooks for the free ebook version of this.
Faith wants to run away from her memories and start fresh, but this is not as easy to do as she expected. Her grandfather doesn't want to "pull up roots" and move, and she cannot leave him behind. Plus there are other circumstances that hinder a quick getaway.
I enjoyed reading this book with drama, romance and suspense and gave it 3.5 ⭐️
Thanks to BookBub and iBooks for the free ebook version of this.
July 13, 2021
So a couple days ago I got an idea. I'd click the random button on Libby and then I'd read whatever came up first. This was the book that came up. Definitely not something that would typically catch my eye and pick up to read, but I wasn't opposed to giving it a try. I enjoyed the kind of slice-of-life in a small post-Civil War town and everything that came with that. I enjoyed reading about Faith taking on running her grandfather's store and her relationships with her grandfather, Curt, Rosemary, and the other people in town. However, her motivations for her Oregon obsession were unclear. She claimed the memories of the town were too painful due to her father and brother's death, but we don't really get see how exactly that affects her. Her logic towards everything was kinda odd. I found Curt to be a much more interesting character than Faith. He struggles with PTSD (known as "soldier's heart" back then) and fears that this will make it hard to return to normal life, as well as fearing this will make him unworthy of Faith. His side of the story was portrayed a lot better in my opinion.
So was my random book on Libby challenge a success? I mean, it was an enjoyable read, but nothing really special. I wish the author would have shown a clearer motivation for Faith's actions so I could have empathized with her more. However, it was fun reading something I normally would never think of picking up. I definitely plan on doing this random challenge again in the future.
So was my random book on Libby challenge a success? I mean, it was an enjoyable read, but nothing really special. I wish the author would have shown a clearer motivation for Faith's actions so I could have empathized with her more. However, it was fun reading something I normally would never think of picking up. I definitely plan on doing this random challenge again in the future.
August 31, 2024
This lovely book follows young lady Faith Lindberg as she works on the family business(which was most improper for a lady at the time) while taking care of her forgetful grandfather and planning her so dreamed trip to Oregon, in the hopes of starting anew.
The setting and pacing of this book was most pleasing, with the characters being well introduced and at proper times. I am not someone who can talk about how accurate it was regarding the time period but, regardless, it presented a very clear picture of Noble Spring.
While I really enjoyed the book as a whole, I found the ending to be a bit lacking in comparison with the rest, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
3.5/5
The setting and pacing of this book was most pleasing, with the characters being well introduced and at proper times. I am not someone who can talk about how accurate it was regarding the time period but, regardless, it presented a very clear picture of Noble Spring.
While I really enjoyed the book as a whole, I found the ending to be a bit lacking in comparison with the rest, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
3.5/5
September 21, 2020
I really wish Curt had been the main character! Faith was obsessed with Oregon, selfish, immature and way too forgettable. We all make mistakes, but for someone who had to be in the mercantile a great deal from the time she was a baby, didn’t know how to run or secure a store, or how to treat her customers. Another main character I only barely liked. The supporting characters were much more interesting. Where were the wildflowers?
July 6, 2017
Great frontier read
Very believable story. Enjoyed the characters and friendships in this novel. Definitely good read for those that like this genre.
Very believable story. Enjoyed the characters and friendships in this novel. Definitely good read for those that like this genre.
July 27, 2017
Light fiction.
April 8, 2020
It was okay.
April 8, 2021
An excellent start to a first read book by a new author for me. I am looking forward to reading more of her books! :)
April 16, 2021
Every once in a while it’s nice to read a light Christian romance. This is one of them. Predictable but sweet!
June 21, 2021
A feel good read
Descriptive and engaging characters. A look at post war life and struggles. Look forward to reading more from this Author.
Descriptive and engaging characters. A look at post war life and struggles. Look forward to reading more from this Author.
November 22, 2021
The plot was predictable and the general characterization was weak.
January 30, 2022
I admire Faith’s relationship with her grandfather; she had her hands full!
March 5, 2023
Grandpa was right....
It did take Curtis too long to ask her the question. Good clean story, some prejudice against women working, post civil war times. Would recommend read.
It did take Curtis too long to ask her the question. Good clean story, some prejudice against women working, post civil war times. Would recommend read.
February 8, 2017
Entertaining but predictable chick flick plot.
April 9, 2020
Wrote a review and it disappeared. So here we go again...
I did not know what I would think about this book from the outset. Looking at it online I wasn't impressed by the cover, but with the book in hand I have to say that I retract that statement and opinion; it is truly gorgeous. I really enjoyed Ann Shorey's first series including Edge of Light, The, The Promise of Morning and The Dawn of a Dream. I knew that I was looking forward to reading more. What I was not expecting was just how much I was going to enjoy this book. It was difficult to put down as I was drawn the characters and just had to keep reading.
Our main character Faith just wants to run away. She lost her father and brother in the War Between the States and she things that her home of Noble Springs holds too many reminders of the past, but she doesn't seem to understand that no matter how badly she wants to escape to the west she cannot run away from the painful memories as they are in our mind. I suppose that she could get away from reminders that would trigger the memories, but leaving won't solve all her issues and it will not erase her old life to start a-new.
The way that she acts with assumed permission from her grandfather brings to mind about how we often act with assumed permission from God and his will. We appear to be in charge, but for reality, he still owns the store and God still is the one that our lives should promote.
Looking into the way that Faith was taken aback by the war-worn appearance of our protagonist Curt it does make me think about my first impressions of a dear friend of our family. He was so invested in making children and others realize they had a future even when times were bleak. This man owned a jewelry shop and made incredible pieces and knew the Bible so well. But at the same time he was a crazy pierced, tatooed biker with long rag-tag hair. At a glance you'd find him terrifying and assume he didn't care about anything but a beer. But he was all about life and helping others. As a matter of fact he once made the newspapers as he grabbed a man off a bridge who was about to jump. Judging a book or person by it's cover is always a tricky thing. Opinions can definitely change as you get to know them better. In another instance, my mohauk, tatooed, pierced male hair stylist is one amazing father, husband to his wife and so involved in his church. Whenever I go in we talk the whole time about the amazing things God has done lately. Who knew?
Faith and Curt had one of those relationships where I just wanted to scream, "Talk to her! Tell her! Tell him! Quit being so silly!" But isn't that one of those things that makes you turn the page? Because after all, it has to work out. Right? As for Faith's friend and Curt's sister Rosemary. Well I am definitely looking forward to more in the series, which I can only hope and assume will include a romance for her. She is looked down on her wartime service as a nurse and that is something I haven't thought about much. It brings to mind how from story to story even in the same time period how Doctors can either be treated as a Gentleman's profession or one of a "filthy laborer" with dirty hands. It's all in the prospective and culture. As someone who went to nursing school reading about the early ministrations of nurses always surprises me. After all the natural motherly experience, wouldn't one assume that you would want to be carried for by a woman of motherly touch as opposed to a doctor of indifference. (Not all doctors fit that judgement I know.) As I was taught in school, the nurse treats the patient, while the doctor treats the disease. Yes the lines cross and there is plenty of grey. But the care is there.
Through out the book, continually reoccurring is the mention of Faith's grandfather's verse that leads his life. I have one such verse in my own, that pretty much sums up my faith and life. Galatians 2:20. Since it is no longer I that live, but Christ who lives through me... I cannot imagine how my days would differ without having that support stream to fall back upon. This is one for the keeper shelf and I anxiously await the rest of the series.
Thanks to Revell for providing a copy for review.
Originally posted: http://wp.me/pYHD5-35z
I did not know what I would think about this book from the outset. Looking at it online I wasn't impressed by the cover, but with the book in hand I have to say that I retract that statement and opinion; it is truly gorgeous. I really enjoyed Ann Shorey's first series including Edge of Light, The, The Promise of Morning and The Dawn of a Dream. I knew that I was looking forward to reading more. What I was not expecting was just how much I was going to enjoy this book. It was difficult to put down as I was drawn the characters and just had to keep reading.
Our main character Faith just wants to run away. She lost her father and brother in the War Between the States and she things that her home of Noble Springs holds too many reminders of the past, but she doesn't seem to understand that no matter how badly she wants to escape to the west she cannot run away from the painful memories as they are in our mind. I suppose that she could get away from reminders that would trigger the memories, but leaving won't solve all her issues and it will not erase her old life to start a-new.
The way that she acts with assumed permission from her grandfather brings to mind about how we often act with assumed permission from God and his will. We appear to be in charge, but for reality, he still owns the store and God still is the one that our lives should promote.
Looking into the way that Faith was taken aback by the war-worn appearance of our protagonist Curt it does make me think about my first impressions of a dear friend of our family. He was so invested in making children and others realize they had a future even when times were bleak. This man owned a jewelry shop and made incredible pieces and knew the Bible so well. But at the same time he was a crazy pierced, tatooed biker with long rag-tag hair. At a glance you'd find him terrifying and assume he didn't care about anything but a beer. But he was all about life and helping others. As a matter of fact he once made the newspapers as he grabbed a man off a bridge who was about to jump. Judging a book or person by it's cover is always a tricky thing. Opinions can definitely change as you get to know them better. In another instance, my mohauk, tatooed, pierced male hair stylist is one amazing father, husband to his wife and so involved in his church. Whenever I go in we talk the whole time about the amazing things God has done lately. Who knew?
Faith and Curt had one of those relationships where I just wanted to scream, "Talk to her! Tell her! Tell him! Quit being so silly!" But isn't that one of those things that makes you turn the page? Because after all, it has to work out. Right? As for Faith's friend and Curt's sister Rosemary. Well I am definitely looking forward to more in the series, which I can only hope and assume will include a romance for her. She is looked down on her wartime service as a nurse and that is something I haven't thought about much. It brings to mind how from story to story even in the same time period how Doctors can either be treated as a Gentleman's profession or one of a "filthy laborer" with dirty hands. It's all in the prospective and culture. As someone who went to nursing school reading about the early ministrations of nurses always surprises me. After all the natural motherly experience, wouldn't one assume that you would want to be carried for by a woman of motherly touch as opposed to a doctor of indifference. (Not all doctors fit that judgement I know.) As I was taught in school, the nurse treats the patient, while the doctor treats the disease. Yes the lines cross and there is plenty of grey. But the care is there.
Through out the book, continually reoccurring is the mention of Faith's grandfather's verse that leads his life. I have one such verse in my own, that pretty much sums up my faith and life. Galatians 2:20. Since it is no longer I that live, but Christ who lives through me... I cannot imagine how my days would differ without having that support stream to fall back upon. This is one for the keeper shelf and I anxiously await the rest of the series.
Thanks to Revell for providing a copy for review.
Originally posted: http://wp.me/pYHD5-35z
August 31, 2012
My Thoughts on this book!
Faith and her grandfather had lost so much, the only way Faith thought they could be happy again was to take off on the Oregon Trail and start a new life in the West. This has been Faith’s dream for a while, and now it was making her grandfather realize the same thing. But getting him to leave their home in the small Missouri town of Noble Springs was not going to be easy.
But then things started happening that drew Faith to their home, even though Faith wasn’t aware of it yet.
Her grandfather put Faith in charge of the store, letting her run it as she pleased. This did not make a lot of the men in the area happy, but it wasn’t long before these men, as well as the rest of the neighbors were warming up to Faith, accepting her as the new store manager.
Royal, a guy that promised Faith he would keep her ribbon and remember her while he was in the war came back in town. And though he didn’t remember her or the ribbon when she asks him about it, he decided to woo her, but did he really love her?
Then she meets Rosemary, who becomes like a sister to Faith. Not to mention Rosemary’s brother Curt, to which both Curt and Faith were attracted to each other, but neither seemed to realize it for a while.
Her grandfather’s health issues, Curt becoming friends with her granddad and spending time with him, the break-ins, Curt always being there for her when she really needed someone.
But Faith just couldn’t see that they should stay in Noble Springs, she was still determined to leave, after all this was her dream.
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction story, with characters that I loved more and more as I continued to read the book. That is all buy Royal, this guy just irks me, I wanted him out of Faith’s life to give Curt a chance! The history in the story is so very detailed you feel like you are there, walking around the little town visiting all of the shops, talking to the owners of the businesses there. I love the feel of the small town atmosphere where everyone knows everyone else, well, and everyone knows your business, which is not so good sometimes too! But still, I love it! I am looking forward to Ann Shorey’s next book in this series. This is just a wonderfully good read, so go grab a copy for yourself to read and enjoy!
This book was provided by Revell Publishers in exchange for an honest review. I was not required or expected to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
***************************
“Available January 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
Faith and her grandfather had lost so much, the only way Faith thought they could be happy again was to take off on the Oregon Trail and start a new life in the West. This has been Faith’s dream for a while, and now it was making her grandfather realize the same thing. But getting him to leave their home in the small Missouri town of Noble Springs was not going to be easy.
But then things started happening that drew Faith to their home, even though Faith wasn’t aware of it yet.
Her grandfather put Faith in charge of the store, letting her run it as she pleased. This did not make a lot of the men in the area happy, but it wasn’t long before these men, as well as the rest of the neighbors were warming up to Faith, accepting her as the new store manager.
Royal, a guy that promised Faith he would keep her ribbon and remember her while he was in the war came back in town. And though he didn’t remember her or the ribbon when she asks him about it, he decided to woo her, but did he really love her?
Then she meets Rosemary, who becomes like a sister to Faith. Not to mention Rosemary’s brother Curt, to which both Curt and Faith were attracted to each other, but neither seemed to realize it for a while.
Her grandfather’s health issues, Curt becoming friends with her granddad and spending time with him, the break-ins, Curt always being there for her when she really needed someone.
But Faith just couldn’t see that they should stay in Noble Springs, she was still determined to leave, after all this was her dream.
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction story, with characters that I loved more and more as I continued to read the book. That is all buy Royal, this guy just irks me, I wanted him out of Faith’s life to give Curt a chance! The history in the story is so very detailed you feel like you are there, walking around the little town visiting all of the shops, talking to the owners of the businesses there. I love the feel of the small town atmosphere where everyone knows everyone else, well, and everyone knows your business, which is not so good sometimes too! But still, I love it! I am looking forward to Ann Shorey’s next book in this series. This is just a wonderfully good read, so go grab a copy for yourself to read and enjoy!
This book was provided by Revell Publishers in exchange for an honest review. I was not required or expected to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.
***************************
“Available January 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
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