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Summer of Meteors
As the nation teeters on the edge of civil war, three women converge at the elegant Bedford Springs Hotel in Pennsylvania. Harriet Lane, strongminded and vivacious niece to President James Buchanan and the nation’s “Democratic Queen,” begins to question the cost of loyalty as her uncle’s stance on slavery casts a long shadow. Anne McCoy, a quiet Quaker widow, carries the scars of loss, and dangerous secrets. Juba, an enslaved nursemaid to a presidential guest, dreams of freedom and the family torn from her.
When a chance encounter with local agents of the Underground Railroad sparks a daring escape plan, loyalties are tested, and lives are forever changed. Meanwhile as scandal brews and radical abolitionist John Brown plots revolution nearby, these women must decide what they’re willing to risk for justice and each other.
Set against the backdrop of a divided America, Summer of Meteors is a powerful tale of courage, sacrifice, and the bonds forged in the fight for freedom. A forgotten summer where history burned across the sky and nothing, not even the stars, would ever look the same.
When a chance encounter with local agents of the Underground Railroad sparks a daring escape plan, loyalties are tested, and lives are forever changed. Meanwhile as scandal brews and radical abolitionist John Brown plots revolution nearby, these women must decide what they’re willing to risk for justice and each other.
Set against the backdrop of a divided America, Summer of Meteors is a powerful tale of courage, sacrifice, and the bonds forged in the fight for freedom. A forgotten summer where history burned across the sky and nothing, not even the stars, would ever look the same.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2025
About the author
Kris Schaale
3 books10 followersKris Schaale is a novelist interested in a wide array of genres, though her love of history and psychology always seems to find a way into her work. Having lived across the U.S., she fell in love with, and now resides in Bedford, Pennsylvania, with her partner John, two adult sons, Sam and Max, and two elderly dogs, Athena and Cinnamon.
When not living vicariously through her characters, she enjoys the outdoors, skiing, hiking, and kayaking. She uses her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology from Pennsylvania State University to study and write about people’s behavior, motivations, and life journeys. Through story, she hopes her readers will learn and be enriched in their own understanding of people and life.
When not living vicariously through her characters, she enjoys the outdoors, skiing, hiking, and kayaking. She uses her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology from Pennsylvania State University to study and write about people’s behavior, motivations, and life journeys. Through story, she hopes her readers will learn and be enriched in their own understanding of people and life.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 16, 2025
From the first chapter, Summer of Meteors pulls you into a world on the edge of war and moral conflict. The historical detail is rich without ever feeling heavy, and the characters are so vivid you feel every choice they make. Harriet’s inner struggle, Anne’s quiet resolve, and Juba’s yearning for freedom intertwine beautifully in a story that feels both epic and intimate. A deeply moving and skillfully written novel that stays with you long after the final page.
June 3, 2026
An impressive debut novel set on the eve of the Civil War!
It’s late in President Buchanan’s first term of office, and the question of slavery has America teetering on the brink of Civil War. Buchanan and his niece Harriet, who serves as the bachelor President’s de facto First Lady, arrive at Bedford Springs, Pennsylvania, for what is hoped to be a relaxing and rejuvenating summer stay. Harriet is attended to at the luxury resort by Anne, a young Quaker widow. Juba, who is a nursemaid enslaved by Buchanan’s female companion, is also part of the Presidential party. The three women become intertwined when the local underground railroad plans to free Juba. Buchanan’s failed policy to defer to states’ rights until slavery dies a natural death is abhorred by Harriet. Can she risk her relationship with her uncle, the President, to act on her convictions? Anne must decide whether taking action on her personal beliefs justifies the risks to herself and her family. And Juba’s yearning to be free must be weighed with her sense of duty to children in her care.
The story is admirably based on a historical nugget found in the record of President Buchanan’s travels to Bedford Springs. Positioning the real-life event as a contrast with and test to Buchanan’s compromise-seeking political position is unique and thought-provoking. Scenes are set with period detail, and passages describing the natural beauty of the area are quite evocative. Tension rises as Juba’s escape is contemplated, and suspense leads to twists and turns. The prose is generally pleasing and engaging, but slows occasionally by explaining points made in dialogue, and providing multiple physical reactions to demonstrate emotion. All in all, a terrific debut novel by a new voice in historical fiction.
This review first appeared in the May 2026 issue of HISTORICAL NOVELS REVIEW.
It’s late in President Buchanan’s first term of office, and the question of slavery has America teetering on the brink of Civil War. Buchanan and his niece Harriet, who serves as the bachelor President’s de facto First Lady, arrive at Bedford Springs, Pennsylvania, for what is hoped to be a relaxing and rejuvenating summer stay. Harriet is attended to at the luxury resort by Anne, a young Quaker widow. Juba, who is a nursemaid enslaved by Buchanan’s female companion, is also part of the Presidential party. The three women become intertwined when the local underground railroad plans to free Juba. Buchanan’s failed policy to defer to states’ rights until slavery dies a natural death is abhorred by Harriet. Can she risk her relationship with her uncle, the President, to act on her convictions? Anne must decide whether taking action on her personal beliefs justifies the risks to herself and her family. And Juba’s yearning to be free must be weighed with her sense of duty to children in her care.
The story is admirably based on a historical nugget found in the record of President Buchanan’s travels to Bedford Springs. Positioning the real-life event as a contrast with and test to Buchanan’s compromise-seeking political position is unique and thought-provoking. Scenes are set with period detail, and passages describing the natural beauty of the area are quite evocative. Tension rises as Juba’s escape is contemplated, and suspense leads to twists and turns. The prose is generally pleasing and engaging, but slows occasionally by explaining points made in dialogue, and providing multiple physical reactions to demonstrate emotion. All in all, a terrific debut novel by a new voice in historical fiction.
This review first appeared in the May 2026 issue of HISTORICAL NOVELS REVIEW.
June 17, 2026
This is an exceptional local historical fiction novel.
Ms Schaale related events directly prior to the Civil War relating to the president of the United States James Buchanan and his niece, Harriet, who is considered the first lady.
The story starts out with them going on vacation at the famous Bedford Springs resort in Bedford Pennsylvania. The resort was a common place for presidents and other persons of importance to take of the mineral waters and relax with the many amenities at the hotel had to offer at that time.
She woke a very fascinating yet heartbreaking tail of the first lady, her lady in waiting who was a local Quaker widow. And a young slave caring for three young children of another widow who was a guest of the president. The Quaker widow lost her husband when he was killed during an altercation when helping slaves escape north through the underground railroad. In the story the slave was actually stolen up north from her parents when she was 10 years old and sold into slavery in the south. She was given the opportunity to try to escape through the underground railroad in order to reunite with them.
That notorious John Brown, the abolitionist, is also in this story as well.
Based on actual events with some creative license and lots of historical fact, this book literally had me on the edge of my seat! I absolutely loved this book. It also made me appreciate the struggles good people went through to help their fellow man in a very difficult time in our nation history.
Ms Schaale related events directly prior to the Civil War relating to the president of the United States James Buchanan and his niece, Harriet, who is considered the first lady.
The story starts out with them going on vacation at the famous Bedford Springs resort in Bedford Pennsylvania. The resort was a common place for presidents and other persons of importance to take of the mineral waters and relax with the many amenities at the hotel had to offer at that time.
She woke a very fascinating yet heartbreaking tail of the first lady, her lady in waiting who was a local Quaker widow. And a young slave caring for three young children of another widow who was a guest of the president. The Quaker widow lost her husband when he was killed during an altercation when helping slaves escape north through the underground railroad. In the story the slave was actually stolen up north from her parents when she was 10 years old and sold into slavery in the south. She was given the opportunity to try to escape through the underground railroad in order to reunite with them.
That notorious John Brown, the abolitionist, is also in this story as well.
Based on actual events with some creative license and lots of historical fact, this book literally had me on the edge of my seat! I absolutely loved this book. It also made me appreciate the struggles good people went through to help their fellow man in a very difficult time in our nation history.
November 22, 2025
Summer of Meteors pulled me in from the very first page. What stood out most is how three very different women, Harriet, Anne, and Juba, each carry their own burdens, yet their stories weave together so beautifully against a country on the brink of war. The author does an incredible job showing how personal choices become dangerously political in a world where every step feels watched.
Harriet’s internal conflict as the niece of President Buchanan felt especially powerful, loyalty versus conscience. Anne’s quiet strength and the weight of her losses gave the story real emotional depth. And Juba… her chapters hit the hardest. Her hope, fear, and determination for freedom made her storyline unforgettable.
The tension around the Underground Railroad, the brewing scandal, and the shadow of John Brown created this constant sense of urgency. Even the setting, the Bedford Springs Hotel,mfelt alive, almost like another character witnessing history unfold.
This book isn’t just historical fiction; it’s a story about bravery, impossible choices, and the unexpected bonds that form in moments of danger. It’s rich, heartfelt, and stays with you long after the last page.
If you enjoy stories with strong female perspectives, layered history, and quiet but powerful heroism, this one is absolutely worth reading.
Harriet’s internal conflict as the niece of President Buchanan felt especially powerful, loyalty versus conscience. Anne’s quiet strength and the weight of her losses gave the story real emotional depth. And Juba… her chapters hit the hardest. Her hope, fear, and determination for freedom made her storyline unforgettable.
The tension around the Underground Railroad, the brewing scandal, and the shadow of John Brown created this constant sense of urgency. Even the setting, the Bedford Springs Hotel,mfelt alive, almost like another character witnessing history unfold.
This book isn’t just historical fiction; it’s a story about bravery, impossible choices, and the unexpected bonds that form in moments of danger. It’s rich, heartfelt, and stays with you long after the last page.
If you enjoy stories with strong female perspectives, layered history, and quiet but powerful heroism, this one is absolutely worth reading.
June 24, 2026
Summers of meteors was a beautiful, well researched story of the intersection of three women’s lives in 1860’s Pennsylvania. I found myself full invested in each character’s point of view and the outcome of the story. It was fascinating to learn more about a president and First Lady I knew very little about. History is often taught in school through very dry texts and ai wonder at why more teachers don’t make use of beautiful historical novels like this one that can teach both the facts, but also really allow the reader to feel they have lived through the period and the challenges and thus have a deeper understanding and also more accurate understanding of what the people of our country have gone through in different periods.
I am extremely proud of author Kris Schaale taking on the young black woman’s POV. She did her research and didn’t let the publishing climate of today scare her away from sharing what is arguably the most important point of view to the story. Kudos to Sunbury Press for not shying away from the content.
I like knowing what happened to each character’s at the end but at the same time it felt slightly too buttoned up. Maybe it could have ended a few chapters sooner, but then again if it had, would I have wanted more. I am unsure. Over all a brilliant book and I am so glad I read it!
I am extremely proud of author Kris Schaale taking on the young black woman’s POV. She did her research and didn’t let the publishing climate of today scare her away from sharing what is arguably the most important point of view to the story. Kudos to Sunbury Press for not shying away from the content.
I like knowing what happened to each character’s at the end but at the same time it felt slightly too buttoned up. Maybe it could have ended a few chapters sooner, but then again if it had, would I have wanted more. I am unsure. Over all a brilliant book and I am so glad I read it!
August 4, 2026
man’s in humanity to man
There is much in the world that I do not understand. I especially do not understand why people seem to think it’s their right to be so cruel to others. To think about enslaving a person because of his or her color or nationality is far beyond my imagination. Summer of Meteors is an account of President Buchanan and Jane, his niece as they visit Bedford Springs. Jane, her maid, and a slave girl come together in a time of peril for black people, free or slave. Jane must struggle with her uncle the President’s views on how America should deal with the slave question.
This is an excellent book. Historical characters come to life as their lives are intertwined with fictional ones. Events are realistic because they are true. All in all this is an excellent work, and I highly recommend it.
There is much in the world that I do not understand. I especially do not understand why people seem to think it’s their right to be so cruel to others. To think about enslaving a person because of his or her color or nationality is far beyond my imagination. Summer of Meteors is an account of President Buchanan and Jane, his niece as they visit Bedford Springs. Jane, her maid, and a slave girl come together in a time of peril for black people, free or slave. Jane must struggle with her uncle the President’s views on how America should deal with the slave question.
This is an excellent book. Historical characters come to life as their lives are intertwined with fictional ones. Events are realistic because they are true. All in all this is an excellent work, and I highly recommend it.
November 14, 2025
Summer of Meteors is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel. I was immediately drawn into the lives of Harriet, Anne, and Juba—three women whose stories intertwine with courage, heartbreak, and hope as the country edges toward civil war. The author captures their struggles and strength with stunning clarity, making every moment feel real and emotionally gripping.
The mix of personal drama, rising political tension, and the daring ties to the Underground Railroad kept me completely absorbed. It’s a vivid, compelling story that highlights the bravery of women fighting for justice in impossible circumstances.
A powerful, inspiring read. Five stars without hesitation.
The mix of personal drama, rising political tension, and the daring ties to the Underground Railroad kept me completely absorbed. It’s a vivid, compelling story that highlights the bravery of women fighting for justice in impossible circumstances.
A powerful, inspiring read. Five stars without hesitation.
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October 23, 2025Summer of Meteors is a beautifully written historical novel that weaves together courage, justice, and the strength of women in a time of national turmoil. The intertwining stories of Harriet, Anne, and Juba bring to life the moral and emotional struggles of a divided America. The setting at Bedford Springs feels vivid and atmospheric, and the tension between loyalty, freedom, and sacrifice makes this story both moving and memorable.
A powerful and heartfelt read for anyone who loves character driven historical fiction rooted in real history.
A powerful and heartfelt read for anyone who loves character driven historical fiction rooted in real history.
October 29, 2025
Summer of Meteors pulls you right into a time of division, courage, and quiet rebellion. I was completely drawn to the three women, Harriet, Anne, and Juba, each with her own strength and struggles. Their stories intertwine in such a powerful and emotional way that it’s hard to put the book down.
The historical setting feels vivid and real, and the author does an amazing job showing how hope and bravery can shine even in dark times. This is the kind of book that stays with you long after you finish it.
The historical setting feels vivid and real, and the author does an amazing job showing how hope and bravery can shine even in dark times. This is the kind of book that stays with you long after you finish it.
January 22, 2026
Summer of Meteors is a beautifully written and deeply moving historical novel. The story pulls you in with its strong female characters, each facing impossible choices in a country on the brink of war. The setting feels vivid, the emotions feel real, and the stakes are powerful without being overwhelming.
What really stands out is how personal the history feels freedom, loyalty, and courage are explored through intimate, human moments. This is the kind of book that stays with you after the final page. Highly recommended for readers who love thoughtful, character-driven historical fiction.
What really stands out is how personal the history feels freedom, loyalty, and courage are explored through intimate, human moments. This is the kind of book that stays with you after the final page. Highly recommended for readers who love thoughtful, character-driven historical fiction.
October 16, 2025
Summer of Meteors is everything I love in historical fiction powerful characters, meticulous detail, and emotional depth that cuts to the bone. The author brings to life not only a crucial moment in American history but also the courage of women whose choices shaped it in silence and sacrifice. Harriet’s moral dilemma, Anne’s quiet bravery, and Juba’s longing for freedom all intertwine to form a story as radiant and fierce as the meteors blazing across the summer sky. A truly magnificent read!
October 19, 2025
What an incredible book! Summer of Meteors swept me up from the first chapter and didn’t let go. I loved how the author blended real historical figures like Harriet Lane with fictional characters whose courage and heartbreak feel completely real. The pacing is perfect, there’s drama, danger, and just enough tenderness to balance the darker moments. I finished it in two days and immediately wanted to start again. Easily one of the best historical novels I’ve read in years.
October 20, 2025
I was completely captivated by the three voices in this novel. Harriet’s inner battle between loyalty and justice, Anne’s quiet defiance, and Juba’s relentless hope, each story thread was beautifully distinct yet perfectly woven together. Kris Schaale doesn’t just tell history; she makes you feel it. By the end, I felt like these women were friends I’d known forever. A moving, soulful read that honors the strength of women across generations.
November 12, 2025
Summer of Meteors by Kris Schaale is an engrossing historical fiction novel set in the post abolition era of America. The setting and characters are well defined as the story races into conflict pulling the reader into the predicament of the three main female characters. As a historical novel writer myself, I appreciate the research the author must have done to understand the politics of the time and the limitations for women and the children of freed slaves.
January 29, 2026
Just finished reading this, and I can’t stop thinking about it. Summer of Meteors is a stunning portrayal of bravery, sacrifice, and the bonds forged in the fight for justice. Harriet, Anne, and Juba are brilliantly drawn, each with struggles that feel both personal and epic. The story’s tension, historical accuracy, and emotional weight make it impossible to put down. I feel like I just lived a summer that changed everything, and I’m still reeling from it.
March 23, 2026
What a lovely story set in pre-Civil War times in southern Pennsylvania. Set in Bedford Springs PA this book follows 3 young women, Harriett the niece of President Buchanan, Anne a young local woman working as a ladies maid for Harriet, and "Janie" an enslaved woman serving a family friend of the president.
this book takes a look at what the abolitionist movement was like at that time and how it impacted people of different classes, races, and political parties.
this book takes a look at what the abolitionist movement was like at that time and how it impacted people of different classes, races, and political parties.
May 15, 2026
This one surprised me. I wasn't expecting to get so caught up in the lives of three women at a fancy hotel in Pennsylvania, right before the Civil War. Harriet is the president's niece, torn between family loyalty and her conscience about slavery. Anne is a Quaker widow with secrets. And Juba is an enslaved nursemaid who just wants freedom for herself and her family. Their stories weave together beautifully, and the tension builds like a thundercloud. A thoughtful, moving read.
October 27, 2025
This book broke my heart and healed it again. The intertwined stories of privilege, loss, and the longing for freedom are masterfully told. I could feel the tension of the era the whispers of rebellion, the moral struggles, the courage it took just to do what was right. Every chapter left me breathless. Absolutely stunning.
December 10, 2025
This book brings history to life with remarkable heart and depth. The intertwined stories of three courageous women each facing danger, sacrifice, and impossible choices, make for a gripping and emotional read. Richly written and full of tension, hope, and humanity, it’s a standout tale of courage and freedom. A moving, unforgettable novel!
December 15, 2025
What I loved most about this novel is how personal it makes history feel. The setting is elegant, but the moral questions are raw and unsettling, especially as loyalties are tested. Juba’s story in particular broke my heart and gave the book its emotional core. It’s a haunting reminder of the courage it takes to choose justice in impossible times.
April 14, 2026
This is not the genre I usually read. I know the author and the area of the books setting, so I decided to give it a go. I loved this book! It was a fast read and I loved the characters and the history from the author’s research. Would highly recommend.
November 4, 2025
kept my interest the whole time learned alot of local history
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July 17, 2026I wrote it...But I loved writing it, and I hope you enjoy meeting Harriet, Juba, and Anne.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews