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Their Burden to Bear: A Post-WWI Novel
In the shadow of a grieving nation, two broken souls are bound by duty, drawn together by circumstance, and tested by a love neither expected.
Washington, D.C., 1921. As America prepares to honor the first Unknown Soldier, Elsie St. Clair longs for freedom from her father’s cruel control and the chance to build a life of her own. Instead, she is forced into the spotlight of the upcoming ceremonies when she’s chosen to serve as companion to Gunnery Sergeant Phillip Pierce—a decorated Marine tasked with bearing the Unknown Soldier to his final rest.
Phillip is a war hero, but the medals pinned to his chest weigh heavy with loss and unspoken pain. To Elsie, his quiet strength and battle-hardened scars stir a hope she thought long the hope of being truly seen and loved. Yet danger shadows their every step—from subtle whispers in the capital to the schemes of a jealous rival determined to come between them.
When Phillip offers Elsie a marriage of convenience, it seems a practical way to shield her from harm and keep his own heart untouched. But as they raise her orphaned nephew together, friendship blossoms into a tender bond neither can deny. Still, secrets from the past threaten to shatter the fragile peace they’ve found, forcing them to decide if they will cling to silence—or risk everything for the kind of love that bears all things.
"With rich historical details, a romance that is hard-won and beautiful, and unexpected twists, Tabers has penned a debut novel that will leave you sitting not only in awe of her story-telling, but also in awe of the brave soldiers her story represents. Their Burden to Bear will leave you with a new and profound reverence for and understanding of the men who are represented by the Unkown Soldier and the men who served along those who never made it home and still remain unknown. This story will leave an indelible mark on you, and you don't want to miss it."
-Crystal Caudill, Christy Award-winning author and author of Written in Secret
"Set against the turbulent aftermath of the Great War, Their Burden to Bear will grip the reader from the first page with its masterful mix of blackmail, betrayal, and fragile family loyalties. At its heart lies a marriage of convenience that blossoms into something far deeper, as two wounded souls discover the healing power of love and the strength found in bearing one another's burdens. Fans of richly layered historical drama and redemptive romance won't want to miss Heather Tabers' riveting debut."
-Kelly J. Goshorn, best-selling author of The Undercover Heiress of Brockton
"A sweetly protective Marine hero with secrets, an endearingly loquacious heroine with a heart of gold, an unexpected match, swoonilicious kisses, a cruel villain, a heartfelt message of God's love and provision, and an inspiring slice of history—Their Burden to Bear offers all of this and more! From the very first word, I was fully immersed in Phillip and Elsie's story—and not just for the kisses (though I'm still delightedly fanning myself from some of those!). Heather Tabers also brings to vivid life the origin of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, touching me deeply with the honor of its history and the depth of human emotion. A beautifully crafted debut novel that I wholeheartedly recommend!"
-Carrie Schmidt, ReadingIsMySuperPower.org
Washington, D.C., 1921. As America prepares to honor the first Unknown Soldier, Elsie St. Clair longs for freedom from her father’s cruel control and the chance to build a life of her own. Instead, she is forced into the spotlight of the upcoming ceremonies when she’s chosen to serve as companion to Gunnery Sergeant Phillip Pierce—a decorated Marine tasked with bearing the Unknown Soldier to his final rest.
Phillip is a war hero, but the medals pinned to his chest weigh heavy with loss and unspoken pain. To Elsie, his quiet strength and battle-hardened scars stir a hope she thought long the hope of being truly seen and loved. Yet danger shadows their every step—from subtle whispers in the capital to the schemes of a jealous rival determined to come between them.
When Phillip offers Elsie a marriage of convenience, it seems a practical way to shield her from harm and keep his own heart untouched. But as they raise her orphaned nephew together, friendship blossoms into a tender bond neither can deny. Still, secrets from the past threaten to shatter the fragile peace they’ve found, forcing them to decide if they will cling to silence—or risk everything for the kind of love that bears all things.
"With rich historical details, a romance that is hard-won and beautiful, and unexpected twists, Tabers has penned a debut novel that will leave you sitting not only in awe of her story-telling, but also in awe of the brave soldiers her story represents. Their Burden to Bear will leave you with a new and profound reverence for and understanding of the men who are represented by the Unkown Soldier and the men who served along those who never made it home and still remain unknown. This story will leave an indelible mark on you, and you don't want to miss it."
-Crystal Caudill, Christy Award-winning author and author of Written in Secret
"Set against the turbulent aftermath of the Great War, Their Burden to Bear will grip the reader from the first page with its masterful mix of blackmail, betrayal, and fragile family loyalties. At its heart lies a marriage of convenience that blossoms into something far deeper, as two wounded souls discover the healing power of love and the strength found in bearing one another's burdens. Fans of richly layered historical drama and redemptive romance won't want to miss Heather Tabers' riveting debut."
-Kelly J. Goshorn, best-selling author of The Undercover Heiress of Brockton
"A sweetly protective Marine hero with secrets, an endearingly loquacious heroine with a heart of gold, an unexpected match, swoonilicious kisses, a cruel villain, a heartfelt message of God's love and provision, and an inspiring slice of history—Their Burden to Bear offers all of this and more! From the very first word, I was fully immersed in Phillip and Elsie's story—and not just for the kisses (though I'm still delightedly fanning myself from some of those!). Heather Tabers also brings to vivid life the origin of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, touching me deeply with the honor of its history and the depth of human emotion. A beautifully crafted debut novel that I wholeheartedly recommend!"
-Carrie Schmidt, ReadingIsMySuperPower.org
426 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
10 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
About the author
Heather Tabers
4 books21 followersHeather Tabers writes Historical Romance, Children’s Fiction, and encouragement for weary souls. She resides in sunny Central Florida with her husband and hero, Robert, whom many of her heroes are inspired by. She’s a hope-filled romantic who believes in second chances and redemptive love. Her own love story proves that life can be messy and beautiful at the same time, which is why she enjoys writing stories that show the goodness of God’s grace.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 16, 2025
A sweetly protective Marine hero with secrets, an endearingly loquacious heroine with a heart of gold, an unexpected match, swoonilicious kisses, a cruel villain, a heartfelt message of God's love and provision, and an inspiring slice of history - Their Burden to Bear offers all of this and more! From the very first word, I was fully immersed in Phillip and Elsie’s story—and not just for the kisses (though I’m still delightedly fanning myself from some of those!). Heather Tabers also brings to vivid life the origin of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, touching me deeply with the honor of its history and the depth of human emotion. A beautifully crafted debut that I wholeheartedly recommend!
October 28, 2025
This was an awesome book. It drew me right in and I had a hard time putting it down.
I was intrigued when I first heard about this book. It was something I've never really thought much about. I have heard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, but I never knew the history of how he got there
Didn't realize any details when it came to the Body Bearers. I love the way the author brought this part of history to life. Loved the relationship between Phillip, one of the Marines who was a Body Bearer, and Elsie, the lady who was chosen as his companion. This book was so emotional. The trauma they were both dealing with and working through really moved me. And then the author included some intrigue, with even a bit of suspense and danger.
Loved this debut novel and can't wait to read more from this author.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
I was intrigued when I first heard about this book. It was something I've never really thought much about. I have heard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, but I never knew the history of how he got there
Didn't realize any details when it came to the Body Bearers. I love the way the author brought this part of history to life. Loved the relationship between Phillip, one of the Marines who was a Body Bearer, and Elsie, the lady who was chosen as his companion. This book was so emotional. The trauma they were both dealing with and working through really moved me. And then the author included some intrigue, with even a bit of suspense and danger.
Loved this debut novel and can't wait to read more from this author.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
September 12, 2025
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest review of this book, I was not paid for this review. This book was full of intrigue and surprise twists I was not expecting, what a great break out book!Phillip is a protector, a Marine with a strong sense of duty and honor. Elsie is in need of protection when she is paired to be a companion to Phillip as he attends events as a Body Bearer for the laying in of the Unknown Soldier. Such history that I really knew nothing about. But what an honor and a privilege it must have been to be a part of and even witness the event of the burial and laying in of the Unknown Soldier. It is the burden those involved had to bear. Can Phillip protect Elsie? Will they grow to love each other or to stay companions forever? This book is a good reminder to look to God to be our strength and that He can and will provide. And that He works all things together for His good. What a great first book and I look forward to many more great reads from Heather Tabers!
October 20, 2025
Their Burden to Bear gripped me from page one until the very end. It's rare to read a novel – even a great one – without coming across any lulls in the text, but that's exactly what Heather Tabers has to offer in this unique novel. (I admit I read most of it in one sitting!) While WW2 topics have been covered extensively in novel form, this post-WW1 story was unlike any other. Besides the beautifully crafted main characters and their extensive struggles, I especially loved the history surrounding the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Will definitely be recommending this one to all my reader friends for quite some time, and will be looking forward to Tabers' next novel!
September 10, 2025
I was able to read a copy of this for the launch team. I received the copy today and finished it today, it was such a good book! Love the romance tied to a part of history I knew nothing about before reading this book.
October 15, 2025
Definitely a page turner!
I really enjoyed the main love story and I loved the side characters, especially Mrs. Mullanphy!
Very sweet and cute story with lots of high stakes drama mixed in.
I really enjoyed the main love story and I loved the side characters, especially Mrs. Mullanphy!
Very sweet and cute story with lots of high stakes drama mixed in.
October 17, 2025
“You deserve more than the scraps of my heart, Elsie. More than I could ever offer you.” Her delicate shoulders shrug softly. “And yet, here I am.”
I can’t believe this is a debut book, it was so good. I was sucked into the story from the first page and I didn’t want to put it down. I really enjoyed learning the history of the Body Bearers and the Unknown Soldier. It’s a fantastic historical story with amazing characters, many twists and turns, beautiful faith themes, and a marriage of convenience (or is it really)?
Phillip is strong and protective. He is battling the darkness inside himself and the secrets of his past. I loved his friendships with his fellow Marines and the camaraderie with the other Body Bearers. I loved seeing him with Elsie but his tenderness and care of Alfred melted me. Some of my favorite parts were when he finally shared his secrets and past with Elsie. Elsie is kind and devoted to her nephew. She is searching for joy and facing the darkness at home. I loved her friendship with Rose, Maggie, and Mrs Mullanphy. Elsie was so brave and strong dealing with all of the twists she and Phillip faced. Her love, acceptance, and understanding of Phillip was heartwarming. I loved their happily ever after.
Another quote:
“Have you ever held a baby before?” I shrug. “No, but I’ve handled several grenades. He can’t be much scarier than that.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
I can’t believe this is a debut book, it was so good. I was sucked into the story from the first page and I didn’t want to put it down. I really enjoyed learning the history of the Body Bearers and the Unknown Soldier. It’s a fantastic historical story with amazing characters, many twists and turns, beautiful faith themes, and a marriage of convenience (or is it really)?
Phillip is strong and protective. He is battling the darkness inside himself and the secrets of his past. I loved his friendships with his fellow Marines and the camaraderie with the other Body Bearers. I loved seeing him with Elsie but his tenderness and care of Alfred melted me. Some of my favorite parts were when he finally shared his secrets and past with Elsie. Elsie is kind and devoted to her nephew. She is searching for joy and facing the darkness at home. I loved her friendship with Rose, Maggie, and Mrs Mullanphy. Elsie was so brave and strong dealing with all of the twists she and Phillip faced. Her love, acceptance, and understanding of Phillip was heartwarming. I loved their happily ever after.
Another quote:
“Have you ever held a baby before?” I shrug. “No, but I’ve handled several grenades. He can’t be much scarier than that.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
October 22, 2025
A beautiful tribute to the Body Bearers of the Unknown Soldier— a significant part of our history that deserves to have its story told. That is exactly what the author does with her careful attention to detail combined with her vivid, imaginative text. This book was so hard to put down, and I loved how the plot included such a captivating web of blackmail and deceit along with the profound historical tribute and tender romance. Phillip and Elsie’s story is sweet yet full of raw pain, and blossoming with hope, healing, and new beginnings. I especially love how the author threaded the theme of bearing one another’s burdens throughout all the plot lines. So well done! A stunning debut novel that has me excited for Tabers’ forthcoming books!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and am not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and am not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2025
I can hardly believe this is a debut novel. The pacing, the flow, the characters, the touches of humor amidst the raw emotions were perfectly executed keeping me turning each page in anticipation.
This was a beautifully touching story of honor. Honoring brave men who paid the ultimate price.
A friendship and love grew during one of the hardest times in their lives and in the world. A sweet journey as Phillip and Elsie are both struggling.
Reminders of God’s unconditional love were seamlessly woven throughout as each character dealt with pain, grief, and heartache.
Filled with rich history, hope, healing, betrayal, love, and so much more! This poignant story touched my heart and opened my eyes. Forever grateful for those who’ve sacrificed.
Thank you to Heather Tabers for the copy. All opinions are my own.
This was a beautifully touching story of honor. Honoring brave men who paid the ultimate price.
A friendship and love grew during one of the hardest times in their lives and in the world. A sweet journey as Phillip and Elsie are both struggling.
Reminders of God’s unconditional love were seamlessly woven throughout as each character dealt with pain, grief, and heartache.
Filled with rich history, hope, healing, betrayal, love, and so much more! This poignant story touched my heart and opened my eyes. Forever grateful for those who’ve sacrificed.
Thank you to Heather Tabers for the copy. All opinions are my own.
October 22, 2025
This author is well on her way to joining the ranks of greats like Kristin Hannah—mark my words. 🌟 Hop aboard her success train now as she transforms from promising storyteller to full-fledged literary butterfly.
This book is a beautifully woven masterpiece, intertwining two completely different lives into one God-blessed connection. Along the journey, you’ll find moving glimpses into the history of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Body Bearers who stand guard with such honor.
It’s easily one of the standout reads on my 2025 list!
This book is a beautifully woven masterpiece, intertwining two completely different lives into one God-blessed connection. Along the journey, you’ll find moving glimpses into the history of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Body Bearers who stand guard with such honor.
It’s easily one of the standout reads on my 2025 list!
September 19, 2025
Excellent. Definitely a page turner! It was not just a good story but good lessons were given throughout the book too!
October 25, 2025
I thought this book was wonderfully written!! The story reveals strength, hope and healing! I couldn’t put it down and highly recommend it!
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September 29, 2025Their Burden to Bear by @mrsheathertabers
Releasing October 21st
This heartwarming historical fiction novel is one read I will truly cherish. I want to thank Heather for giving me the opportunity to be on her hype team because it gave me the opportunity to discover a new favorite story. I loved this book because it not only showed the healing side of the United States after the first World War but also the healing of thr characters who may have lost loved ones in the war or those not even involved in the war. The plot was truly intriguing and the characters were interesting as well.
We are introduced to Elsie who spends her days maintaining her fathers house and taking care of her orphaned baby nephew. She longs for a life outside of her controlling father's clutches but such a life seems impossible. However it seems like her opportunity for change comes when she meets the handsome marine Phillip. He offers her the opportunity to escape her fathers house by offering a marriage of convenience. Elsie accepts knowing that she is doing a huge favor to het little nephew.
However, despite the happiness in the new found happiness there is still a lot to uncover. Phillip has secrets from his past involvement in the war that he is hiding. Meanwhile Elsie despite being free from her father's home suspects her father is up to some treasonous work. Will Phillip and Elsie be able to uncover the truth without spoiling their developing relationship.?
Releasing October 21st
This heartwarming historical fiction novel is one read I will truly cherish. I want to thank Heather for giving me the opportunity to be on her hype team because it gave me the opportunity to discover a new favorite story. I loved this book because it not only showed the healing side of the United States after the first World War but also the healing of thr characters who may have lost loved ones in the war or those not even involved in the war. The plot was truly intriguing and the characters were interesting as well.
We are introduced to Elsie who spends her days maintaining her fathers house and taking care of her orphaned baby nephew. She longs for a life outside of her controlling father's clutches but such a life seems impossible. However it seems like her opportunity for change comes when she meets the handsome marine Phillip. He offers her the opportunity to escape her fathers house by offering a marriage of convenience. Elsie accepts knowing that she is doing a huge favor to het little nephew.
However, despite the happiness in the new found happiness there is still a lot to uncover. Phillip has secrets from his past involvement in the war that he is hiding. Meanwhile Elsie despite being free from her father's home suspects her father is up to some treasonous work. Will Phillip and Elsie be able to uncover the truth without spoiling their developing relationship.?
October 6, 2025
I loved this story. I enjoyed the true major facts intertwined with a love story. The MFC was compelling and portrayed what many women did during that time to get away from bad situations. MMC's past and present were manifested beautifully. I highly recommend this book. I received an advanced reader copy and this review is my own I was not required to share it.
January 1, 2026
This book was just stupendous! I love wartime novels and WWI is sorely underrepresented by my estimation. This debut novel takes place immediately after WWI, and deals so gently with the body bearers of the Unknown Soldier, whose grave is still to this day is held in high esteem at Arlington National Cemetery. Phillip & Elsie’s tender romance blooms in the least likely of places, and the suspense and intrigue was so captivating! I loved the way their journey honors our Creator and emphasizes the need to bear one another’s burdens together, and to let God bear them too. I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.
October 21, 2025
Exceptional post-WWI Novel!
I received an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest review of this book; I was not paid for this review. I have since purchased another copy and plan to purchase additional books for gifts. In this captivating Christian historical fiction romance novel set in post-WWI, two people learn one of life’s most important lessons. The burdens we bear are not to be borne alone. Elsie, raising a child not her own and overcome by grief and despair, finds faith, hope and healing from an unexpected source. Phillip, a decorated Marine and war hero with a past that haunts him, discovers that revealing his secrets is the pathway to freedom.
This debut novel is written with historical accuracy and pulled me in from the very first page. I’ve never read anything like it. I was intrigued with the Unknown Soldier and taken back in history as the author gave me a glimpse into what it might have been like for the Body Bearers to assume such an honor as they laid the Unknown Soldier to rest. Their Burden to Bear addresses tough issues of betrayal, PTSD, denial and abuse, and shows us how love, trust and faith give us hope. You will laugh, cry, and be overcome with emotion. You will be proud of our military and all those who served; each of them gave their lives, whether they survived or perished. I loved this debut novel and look forward to many more from Heather Tabers!
I received an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest review of this book; I was not paid for this review. I have since purchased another copy and plan to purchase additional books for gifts. In this captivating Christian historical fiction romance novel set in post-WWI, two people learn one of life’s most important lessons. The burdens we bear are not to be borne alone. Elsie, raising a child not her own and overcome by grief and despair, finds faith, hope and healing from an unexpected source. Phillip, a decorated Marine and war hero with a past that haunts him, discovers that revealing his secrets is the pathway to freedom.
This debut novel is written with historical accuracy and pulled me in from the very first page. I’ve never read anything like it. I was intrigued with the Unknown Soldier and taken back in history as the author gave me a glimpse into what it might have been like for the Body Bearers to assume such an honor as they laid the Unknown Soldier to rest. Their Burden to Bear addresses tough issues of betrayal, PTSD, denial and abuse, and shows us how love, trust and faith give us hope. You will laugh, cry, and be overcome with emotion. You will be proud of our military and all those who served; each of them gave their lives, whether they survived or perished. I loved this debut novel and look forward to many more from Heather Tabers!
November 16, 2025
I experienced a multitude of emotions while reading this story! Pride in being an American, dismay that so many had died to preserve my freedom, and a reminder that we must never take that gift for granted. I've long known about the Unknown Soldier from World War I, but this is my first time learning about the body bearers who carried that soldier to his final resting place. Reading this story so close to Veterans Day, and being acquainted with a soldier who served as a guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, increased my appreciation even more.
It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel! Their Burden to Bear has well-defined characters, an exciting plot, and twists and turns I could never have imagined. But author Heather Tabers doesn't stop there! She allows a marriage of convenience to blossom into a friendship that may become something more. Would Phillip and Elsie be strong enough to endure the trials and uncertainties before them?
Romance, history, and faith are flawlessly woven into a thought-provoking story of sacrifice, hope, and love. I recommend Their Burden to Bear to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel! Their Burden to Bear has well-defined characters, an exciting plot, and twists and turns I could never have imagined. But author Heather Tabers doesn't stop there! She allows a marriage of convenience to blossom into a friendship that may become something more. Would Phillip and Elsie be strong enough to endure the trials and uncertainties before them?
Romance, history, and faith are flawlessly woven into a thought-provoking story of sacrifice, hope, and love. I recommend Their Burden to Bear to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 31, 2026
Tabers picked a setting that is fresh and compelling and had me hooked from the beginning. I have a soft spot in my heart for wounded veterans and those carrying unseen scars, so this book was right up my alley.
Sgt. Phillip Pierce has a unique job. He is chosen to escort the body of the Unknown Soldier to its final resting place. He and other brave soldiers are given this honor. But Phillip isn't married, so a companion is assigned to him.
Enter Elsie St. Clair. This girl needs some balls to attend! She is caring for her nephew after the death of her sister, and her alcoholic military father is never home.
Phillip and Elsie are drawn to one another. Philip tries to overcome scars from his past and begin a relationship, but his nightmares get in the way. When he offers a marriage of convenience, Elsie has to decide if she will follow a path that might lead to heartache.
I liked the slow burn between this couple. This is a Christian novel so there's no untoward behavior. There is romance, action, and complications that will have you turning pages to the happily-ever-after. A memorable novel set in the post-WWI years.
Sgt. Phillip Pierce has a unique job. He is chosen to escort the body of the Unknown Soldier to its final resting place. He and other brave soldiers are given this honor. But Phillip isn't married, so a companion is assigned to him.
Enter Elsie St. Clair. This girl needs some balls to attend! She is caring for her nephew after the death of her sister, and her alcoholic military father is never home.
Phillip and Elsie are drawn to one another. Philip tries to overcome scars from his past and begin a relationship, but his nightmares get in the way. When he offers a marriage of convenience, Elsie has to decide if she will follow a path that might lead to heartache.
I liked the slow burn between this couple. This is a Christian novel so there's no untoward behavior. There is romance, action, and complications that will have you turning pages to the happily-ever-after. A memorable novel set in the post-WWI years.
October 13, 2025
This is one of the best books I have read this year. Elise is in charge of running her Fathers house and caring for her nephew. Her sister has passed away and she is now left to care for him. Elise has been asked by her father who is in the military to be a companion to a solider whom she does not know and attend several events.
Philip is a solider and has been asked to take part of the body bears. He will be matched with someone he does not know to attend these events.
This is where Elise and Philip meet.
Elise on the outside looks as if everything is well but she does not want anyone to know how her father treats her. As she gets to know Philip he starts to suspect that something is going on.
He does not think he is good enough for anyone due to his past but he wants to help Elise.
I love how these characters grow and get to know one another. I was given this book by the author. All thoughts are my own. I could not put this book down. Looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Philip is a solider and has been asked to take part of the body bears. He will be matched with someone he does not know to attend these events.
This is where Elise and Philip meet.
Elise on the outside looks as if everything is well but she does not want anyone to know how her father treats her. As she gets to know Philip he starts to suspect that something is going on.
He does not think he is good enough for anyone due to his past but he wants to help Elise.
I love how these characters grow and get to know one another. I was given this book by the author. All thoughts are my own. I could not put this book down. Looking forward to reading more books by this author.
November 10, 2025
Their Burden to Bear completely blew me away. This is the first book I have read written by Heather Tabers, and I am so excited to read more books written by her. The story pulled me in from the start, and I could not put it down.
Elsie and Phillip both have their own burdens to bear. Elsie feels shackled to her father. Having promised her mother to take care of her father. When her sister dies during childbirth, she promises to take care of her nephew. Left with so much to take care of and a father who doesn’t seem to care about her. Reading about what she went through made me tear up. It made me so sad. Phillip is a WWI veteran with his own secrets. As the story goes along, his secrets are revealed. If you love historical fiction, this is the book for you.
This story is rich in history. I loved learning about these soldiers who were body bearers for the Unknown Soldier. The author’s note gave some great details, and I loved the bonus content that was included with the book.
This marriage of convenience romance is kisses only.
Heather Tabers did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the novel.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Elsie and Phillip both have their own burdens to bear. Elsie feels shackled to her father. Having promised her mother to take care of her father. When her sister dies during childbirth, she promises to take care of her nephew. Left with so much to take care of and a father who doesn’t seem to care about her. Reading about what she went through made me tear up. It made me so sad. Phillip is a WWI veteran with his own secrets. As the story goes along, his secrets are revealed. If you love historical fiction, this is the book for you.
This story is rich in history. I loved learning about these soldiers who were body bearers for the Unknown Soldier. The author’s note gave some great details, and I loved the bonus content that was included with the book.
This marriage of convenience romance is kisses only.
Heather Tabers did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the novel.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
February 1, 2026
This is a fantastic book with themes of forgiveness and second chances! I was immediately interested in the story after reading the description. Body Bearers for the Unknown Soldier who don't have wives need women to accompany them for special occasions. Elsie and Phillip could never know how their pairing would cause jealousy, blackmail and dangerous situations.
Elsie is the strongest female character I've ever read about! She endures years of abuse from her father, she's trying to raise her orphaned nephew and she is mercilessly picked on by fellow DAR members. Phillip is a marine who has been highly decorated. He's also carrying a lot of pain from his past. He never realizes that he can love someone as much as he loves Elsie.
There are many elements of faith in the story. Phillip relies on God to overcome the demons of his past. Elsie is not strong in her faith but she realizes her need to focus on God's faithfulness.
This is the first book that I've read by this author, but it certainly won't be the last!!
Elsie is the strongest female character I've ever read about! She endures years of abuse from her father, she's trying to raise her orphaned nephew and she is mercilessly picked on by fellow DAR members. Phillip is a marine who has been highly decorated. He's also carrying a lot of pain from his past. He never realizes that he can love someone as much as he loves Elsie.
There are many elements of faith in the story. Phillip relies on God to overcome the demons of his past. Elsie is not strong in her faith but she realizes her need to focus on God's faithfulness.
This is the first book that I've read by this author, but it certainly won't be the last!!
November 15, 2025
Wow, what a book! Amazing debut novel by Mrs. Tabers. Wicked villain, endearing and admirable FMC, honorable and brave MMC, captivating setting, fascinating history lesson, impactful biblical insights . . . what more could you ask for?!!
I appreciated the subtle parallel between the weight (physical and emotional) that the Body Bearers carried and ". . . the weight of the burden Jesus bore."
One of several favorite quotes: "Mother always said that God does His best work when we finally let go of our grip on the pen and let Him write the story and I think I'm finally ready to do just that."
This was one of those books that you can't stop reading, yet you don't want it to end. I'm looking forward to more from this author!
I appreciated the subtle parallel between the weight (physical and emotional) that the Body Bearers carried and ". . . the weight of the burden Jesus bore."
One of several favorite quotes: "Mother always said that God does His best work when we finally let go of our grip on the pen and let Him write the story and I think I'm finally ready to do just that."
This was one of those books that you can't stop reading, yet you don't want it to end. I'm looking forward to more from this author!
November 18, 2025
I thought that this historical fiction book was an enduring story full of faith, love, romance, and friendship. The main characters tore at my own heart as their life stories sounded realistic as I read through this book. It has many secretive twists that keep you reading for more. Bravo to the author Heather Tabers for writing Their Burden to Bear as her premiere novel. This captivating book will definitely be a memorable one for years to come.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed here are only my honest opinion.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed here are only my honest opinion.
December 29, 2025
Loved learning about this piece of history
I’ve been to the tomb of the unknown soldier before, but hearing the story of how it began made me appreciate it even more. The beautiful descriptions are n this book made me feel like I was walking into the beautiful venues over 100 years ago. Add to that some hidden secrets, trauma, and intrigue and you have a fascinating story.
I’ve been to the tomb of the unknown soldier before, but hearing the story of how it began made me appreciate it even more. The beautiful descriptions are n this book made me feel like I was walking into the beautiful venues over 100 years ago. Add to that some hidden secrets, trauma, and intrigue and you have a fascinating story.
September 22, 2025
I was privileged to receive an advanced copy of Their Burden to Bear. This book included so many things including history, mystery, suspense, romance and family drama. This is a great book for anyone to read.
January 21, 2026
Real pain, real victory. I was moved by characters going through legitimate personal challenges. Loved the portrayal of marriage and the growth needed to make it better. Also enjoyed a unique, historical take on Marines after World War I.
Want to read
November 27, 2025Petition to change the cover😞✋🏻
December 31, 2025
This is a very good book,very interesting, it is a love inspired historical romance, Heather Tabers is a new to me author, but I would definitely recommend this book.
January 28, 2026
Heather Tabers brought post WWI Washington D.C. to life in her novel Their Burden to Bear. A truly enjoyable read with attention to detail and historical tidbits added to the charm of this story! This was the first book I’ve read by her, but it won’t be my last!
October 22, 2025
I was so fascinated by this amazing book, with so much historical information and detail! I love reading true accounts in my historical fiction and Heather Tabers did an incredible job with this book! Inside the story is a love story. What a beautiful way to tell of the hardness of living through this timeframe in history-the building and beginning of America’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery! I have been awestruck by it since I was 8 years old and my parents took our family from TX to Washington, D.C. to learn about our country and its unique history, which of course, included visiting Arlington Cemetery. This is a very moving and poignant glimpse into real lives and it truly struck a chord within me. I highly recommend it to everyone. 📕♥️
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