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The Hero and the Patriot
Quillan Morris isn't supposed to feel anything but brotherly love for the blue-eyed cousin of his loyalist friend. His father gives him the family betrothal brooch but he won't be needing it anytime soon. Not before this irrational fancy for a bonny patriot passes. Meanwhile, the burgesses ask him to carry their messages to the royal governor, who has fled to a warship in the York River. The errands allow him to walk the split-rail fence between the loyalists and the patriots, keeping the respect of both. That respect will shatter if his friend discovers Quill is fighting a losing battle of the heart.
In a world where every good thing comes from God, a man shouldn't have to choose between friendship and love. But when the war becomes personal, the time for sitting on fences is past.
Emmeline Gardiner uses the written word to escape the dreariness of her never-ending chores. When a political pamphlet reaches her hands it inspires her to the patriot cause. What the colonies need is a hero to defend their freedoms, like the great men of ancient Greece and Rome. Her idealistic thoughts are listened to with respect by her cousin's friend, Quillan Morris. He doesn't look or act anything like the heroes of her imagination. But maybe that isn't what she--or the colonies--need.
The Hero and the Patriot is the second book in the Heart of the Revolution, a series which follows the fictional romances and real conflicts of Virginians from 1774 (just before the war) through 1781 (Battle of Yorktown).
In a world where every good thing comes from God, a man shouldn't have to choose between friendship and love. But when the war becomes personal, the time for sitting on fences is past.
Emmeline Gardiner uses the written word to escape the dreariness of her never-ending chores. When a political pamphlet reaches her hands it inspires her to the patriot cause. What the colonies need is a hero to defend their freedoms, like the great men of ancient Greece and Rome. Her idealistic thoughts are listened to with respect by her cousin's friend, Quillan Morris. He doesn't look or act anything like the heroes of her imagination. But maybe that isn't what she--or the colonies--need.
The Hero and the Patriot is the second book in the Heart of the Revolution, a series which follows the fictional romances and real conflicts of Virginians from 1774 (just before the war) through 1781 (Battle of Yorktown).
376 pages, Paperback
Published September 22, 2025
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66 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 29, 2025
A sweet, well written tale of first love set in the turbulent times just before the start of the Revolutionary War in Williamsburg, Virginia. Emmeline at age 18 has a lot of responsibilities: she carves and paints in her father’s wood shop, teaches lessons to young girls, and still finds time to publish anonymous articles for the Patriot Cause in the local Gazette. Quillan is her cousin’s best friend and colleague. He’s an attorney of Scottish descent, and does not have the appearance of a hero that Emmeline has come to expect from her extensive reading. Through a series of events, their romance blossoms beautifully with a couple of unexpected twists and a promise for the future. I appreciated the historical details and the faith elements throughout. This is the second in a series but I have not yet read the first book. The story works well as a complete standalone novel.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave this review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave this review.
September 23, 2025
It is no secret that I love historical fiction and this book caused me to reflect on the beginnings of our country in a new way. After seeing the struggle that the characters in The Hero and The Patriot by Stephanie McRae go through, it made me wonder if those same values are still held by the people of this present generation. There is a lot to unpack in this book. “The most essential freedom is the freedom to disagree.” “ Neither a hero nor a martyr walked away from danger. They both risked everything for what they loved.”
The story has a sweet romance and reflects the traditions and customs of the times. But it brings to the forefront the reality of what these patriots faced at the beginning of the Revolution. Emmaline and Quill were raised in Christian homes and tried to reconcile the turbulent times with their faith and what was pleasing to God. I especially liked that Emmaline was educated and was bold to post an editorial in the newspaper that intelligently spelled out her beliefs.
This story happily coincides with the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. I would hope that this book sparks patriotism in all who read it and cause us to reflect on what our founders went through to secure our liberties as put forth in our Constitution.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
The story has a sweet romance and reflects the traditions and customs of the times. But it brings to the forefront the reality of what these patriots faced at the beginning of the Revolution. Emmaline and Quill were raised in Christian homes and tried to reconcile the turbulent times with their faith and what was pleasing to God. I especially liked that Emmaline was educated and was bold to post an editorial in the newspaper that intelligently spelled out her beliefs.
This story happily coincides with the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. I would hope that this book sparks patriotism in all who read it and cause us to reflect on what our founders went through to secure our liberties as put forth in our Constitution.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
September 23, 2025
Such a sweet story. I loved the 1st in this series and it was fun to see some familiar characters.
In the Hero and the Patriot, you’ll find:
✨An Unlikely Hero
✨”Brother’s” BF (cousin but like a bro)
✨America’s beginnings
✨Lots of history
✨Hidden talents
✨Slow burn romance (and squeaky clean, too 😊)
I loved Quillan’s family so much!
I’m looking forward to rereading this and the first book in the series in the future. And I’m hopeful Quillan’s sister gets a story next!
Note: I received an ARC of this story but was not required to leave a positive review on this story! These thoughts are all my own.
In the Hero and the Patriot, you’ll find:
✨An Unlikely Hero
✨”Brother’s” BF (cousin but like a bro)
✨America’s beginnings
✨Lots of history
✨Hidden talents
✨Slow burn romance (and squeaky clean, too 😊)
I loved Quillan’s family so much!
I’m looking forward to rereading this and the first book in the series in the future. And I’m hopeful Quillan’s sister gets a story next!
Note: I received an ARC of this story but was not required to leave a positive review on this story! These thoughts are all my own.
September 24, 2025
Isn’t this cover just gorgeous! It immediately caught my eye and I knew I had to read it. If you don’t know already, stories set during the American Revolution are my favorite to read. That time period is such an important and integral part of our history. And I can’t get enough of it.
The Hero and the Patriot is book two of the Heart of the Revolution series from Stephanie McRae. It can be read as standalone with no difficulty…as the first book is still on my tbr. It gives us the beautiful slow burn love story between our Scottish MMC Quill and his best friend’s cousin, Emmeline.
Emmeline has strong opinions about the happenings in Virginia in 1775. She cares deeply about the land she lives on and the way of life that she has been blessed with by God. As woman, her thoughts aren’t not cared for by the world but as the anonymous Patriot, her words ring true and bolster the hearts of her fellow countrymen.
Quill’s family left Scotland after the Jacobite rising to start over anew. But when old enemies discover them, Quill must decide whether to fight for his beliefs or to surrender for the safety of those he loves and serve the crown.
In a time of brother against brother and tension and strife, I felt this story was a poignant reminder that individuals can be on two opposing sides of an issue and still be friends. But I am also reminded of what an amazing country we live in and of the brave, unwavering men and women who believed so wholeheartedly in the American dream that we are today living in the greatest nation on earth.
#christianfiction #historicalfiction #arcreader #bookstagram
The Hero and the Patriot is book two of the Heart of the Revolution series from Stephanie McRae. It can be read as standalone with no difficulty…as the first book is still on my tbr. It gives us the beautiful slow burn love story between our Scottish MMC Quill and his best friend’s cousin, Emmeline.
Emmeline has strong opinions about the happenings in Virginia in 1775. She cares deeply about the land she lives on and the way of life that she has been blessed with by God. As woman, her thoughts aren’t not cared for by the world but as the anonymous Patriot, her words ring true and bolster the hearts of her fellow countrymen.
Quill’s family left Scotland after the Jacobite rising to start over anew. But when old enemies discover them, Quill must decide whether to fight for his beliefs or to surrender for the safety of those he loves and serve the crown.
In a time of brother against brother and tension and strife, I felt this story was a poignant reminder that individuals can be on two opposing sides of an issue and still be friends. But I am also reminded of what an amazing country we live in and of the brave, unwavering men and women who believed so wholeheartedly in the American dream that we are today living in the greatest nation on earth.
#christianfiction #historicalfiction #arcreader #bookstagram
October 3, 2025
The Hero and the Patriot is a beautifully written story that blends romance, faith, and history into one unforgettable read. From the first pages, I was drawn into 1775 Williamsburg, Virginia, where patriotism and personal loyalties collide in powerful and emotional ways.
Emmeline is a heroine easy to root for—bookish, brave, and determined to use her voice even when society doesn’t value it. Her secret essays in the Gazette show her intelligence and heart, while her daily work in her father’s shop and with young students highlight her sense of responsibility. Quillan, her cousin’s best friend, is not the polished hero she might have imagined from her novels, but his steady strength, deep loyalty, and devotion to family make him exactly the kind of man readers will fall in love with. Their romance is gentle, layered, and full of slow-burn sweetness, unfolding alongside the uncertainty of war.
I loved how Stephanie McRae weaves together the intimacy of a love story with the sweeping themes of liberty, sacrifice, and faith. The historical details are vivid without overwhelming the story, and the supporting cast adds richness and warmth. At its heart, this book isn’t just about romance—it’s about the courage it takes to stand for what you believe in, even when it costs you everything.
By the end, I felt both inspired and moved—this is the kind of historical romance that reminds you why the Revolutionary War setting is so timeless and relevant.
Emmeline is a heroine easy to root for—bookish, brave, and determined to use her voice even when society doesn’t value it. Her secret essays in the Gazette show her intelligence and heart, while her daily work in her father’s shop and with young students highlight her sense of responsibility. Quillan, her cousin’s best friend, is not the polished hero she might have imagined from her novels, but his steady strength, deep loyalty, and devotion to family make him exactly the kind of man readers will fall in love with. Their romance is gentle, layered, and full of slow-burn sweetness, unfolding alongside the uncertainty of war.
I loved how Stephanie McRae weaves together the intimacy of a love story with the sweeping themes of liberty, sacrifice, and faith. The historical details are vivid without overwhelming the story, and the supporting cast adds richness and warmth. At its heart, this book isn’t just about romance—it’s about the courage it takes to stand for what you believe in, even when it costs you everything.
By the end, I felt both inspired and moved—this is the kind of historical romance that reminds you why the Revolutionary War setting is so timeless and relevant.
September 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book and was rooting for the main characters’ romance the whole time! Emmeline and Quill are both somewhat outsiders and do not always conform to all of Williamsburg society’s expectations. Bookish Emmeline is skilled at writing poetry, essays, and formulates her own opinions on the escalating conflict between the colonies and Great Britain. Barrister Quillan Morris is not your typical dashing hero, a child of Scottish immigrants and a father who risked his life in the Jacobite rebellion. There’s a lot of romantic tension between the two as they decide their political stance and uncover each others’ true feelings. I love their interactions with Charles and Susan who we met in The Lady and and the Loyalist. The first book set the stage for a beautiful, multi-dimensional story but the second book truly delves deeper. I would recommend it to any historical fiction and romance fan!
September 26, 2025
A revolutionary work of fiction set in the heart of the American Revolution!
I have had the wonderful opportunity to read an early copy of the Hero and the Patriot, the second book in the Hearts of the Revolution series. Emmeline and Quill's story did not disappoint! I enjoyed this book just as much as The Lady and the Loyalist. This is such a sweet, deep, and faithful historical romance. Emmeline's writing as "The Patriot" was one of my favorite things, as well as the tie-ins to characters from the first book.
The author does justice to the complexity of what it means to fight for the freedom America offered then and offers now. Everything about this book, from the faith themes and fight for love during wartime, was expertly written. If you enjoy stories with historical depth and unlikely heroes, this book is for you.
This Five-star read is going to go on my top books of 2025 list :)
The map and historical word index in the front matter were fun additions, too.
If you decide to pick up this book, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
I received an e-ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.
I have had the wonderful opportunity to read an early copy of the Hero and the Patriot, the second book in the Hearts of the Revolution series. Emmeline and Quill's story did not disappoint! I enjoyed this book just as much as The Lady and the Loyalist. This is such a sweet, deep, and faithful historical romance. Emmeline's writing as "The Patriot" was one of my favorite things, as well as the tie-ins to characters from the first book.
The author does justice to the complexity of what it means to fight for the freedom America offered then and offers now. Everything about this book, from the faith themes and fight for love during wartime, was expertly written. If you enjoy stories with historical depth and unlikely heroes, this book is for you.
This Five-star read is going to go on my top books of 2025 list :)
The map and historical word index in the front matter were fun additions, too.
If you decide to pick up this book, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
I received an e-ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.
September 25, 2025
✨ He had found a lovefire that would never grow cold.✨
Another fantastic book set during some turbulent times in Colonial America with faith, family, yearning, and witty banter. I enjoyed seeing Williamsburg during the time of the Continental Congress.
Quill is an intelligent, flirty, risk-taking Scotsman who is learning what it means to truly be an “American”. He is trying to prove to his best friend and others that he isn’t the reckless boy he once was. I absolutely loved his devotion to his family and his desire for peace in the colonies. Seeing his yearning for Emmeline and all the little things he did for her was so sweet. Emmeline is brave, smart, caring, and hard-working. I enjoyed seeing her teach Kitty and her secret writing. I loved her friendship with Polly and her time with Quill’s family was wonderful. Her boldness when she realized Quill cared for her was delightful.
I enjoyed seeing more of Quill and Charles’ friendship and past revealed. I loved seeing that even though they had differing political views they didn’t even hesitate to stand up for and help each other when trouble came their way. I loved Polly and the rest of Quill’s family, I hope we get her story in the future.
Note: This is the second book in the series. It can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the first book because you meet the MCs there, you’ll love them even more.
A few more quotes:
“Speech is a natural right. God gave us each a mind, a conscience, and the power to articulate what weighs on us. Only a fool seeks to silence those who disagree with him.”
“Thank you again for coming. I enjoyed your company.” Her words of pleasure and admiration filled the empty corners of his heart. “Thank ye for yer company,” he said. “It’s my favorite.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
Another fantastic book set during some turbulent times in Colonial America with faith, family, yearning, and witty banter. I enjoyed seeing Williamsburg during the time of the Continental Congress.
Quill is an intelligent, flirty, risk-taking Scotsman who is learning what it means to truly be an “American”. He is trying to prove to his best friend and others that he isn’t the reckless boy he once was. I absolutely loved his devotion to his family and his desire for peace in the colonies. Seeing his yearning for Emmeline and all the little things he did for her was so sweet. Emmeline is brave, smart, caring, and hard-working. I enjoyed seeing her teach Kitty and her secret writing. I loved her friendship with Polly and her time with Quill’s family was wonderful. Her boldness when she realized Quill cared for her was delightful.
I enjoyed seeing more of Quill and Charles’ friendship and past revealed. I loved seeing that even though they had differing political views they didn’t even hesitate to stand up for and help each other when trouble came their way. I loved Polly and the rest of Quill’s family, I hope we get her story in the future.
Note: This is the second book in the series. It can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the first book because you meet the MCs there, you’ll love them even more.
A few more quotes:
“Speech is a natural right. God gave us each a mind, a conscience, and the power to articulate what weighs on us. Only a fool seeks to silence those who disagree with him.”
“Thank you again for coming. I enjoyed your company.” Her words of pleasure and admiration filled the empty corners of his heart. “Thank ye for yer company,” he said. “It’s my favorite.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
September 18, 2025
The Hero and the Patriot by Stephanie McRae is a well-researched and immersive story! I’ve visited Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown several times, and it was fun to see those places come alive in this book.
Stephanie’s writing is beautiful and descriptive, and I enjoyed the dual points of view that the story is told through. I also liked the dated entry style of the storytelling. I enjoyed being able to see how time passes in the story along with important dates related to the Revolution. The language of the story seems true to the period – an extensive glossary is included at the beginning of the book.
The conversations in the book about liberty, free speech, and loyalty to one’s country are thought-provoking and just as relevant today as they were in 1775. It was interesting to read about Patriot and Loyalist points of view (along with a desire for middle ground to avoid war entirely), and how they interacted with one another. There are faith themes woven throughout the story – characters attend church, pray, and discuss God.
Quill and Emmeline are great, unique characters, and their relationship is built on friendship first. The plot is driven both by the main characters’ relationship and the external events of the American Revolution. A personal preference con for me was the amount of time that Quill spent thinking about kissing Emmeline, but it wasn’t enough to really take away from the story, and they are young and in love.
For any lovers of American Revolution historical fiction and romance, this is a great book! You can tell how much time went into research for this story, and as a reader and history lover, I appreciate it! I recommend reading the first book in this series, The Lady and the Loyalist, before reading this one.
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Stephanie’s writing is beautiful and descriptive, and I enjoyed the dual points of view that the story is told through. I also liked the dated entry style of the storytelling. I enjoyed being able to see how time passes in the story along with important dates related to the Revolution. The language of the story seems true to the period – an extensive glossary is included at the beginning of the book.
The conversations in the book about liberty, free speech, and loyalty to one’s country are thought-provoking and just as relevant today as they were in 1775. It was interesting to read about Patriot and Loyalist points of view (along with a desire for middle ground to avoid war entirely), and how they interacted with one another. There are faith themes woven throughout the story – characters attend church, pray, and discuss God.
Quill and Emmeline are great, unique characters, and their relationship is built on friendship first. The plot is driven both by the main characters’ relationship and the external events of the American Revolution. A personal preference con for me was the amount of time that Quill spent thinking about kissing Emmeline, but it wasn’t enough to really take away from the story, and they are young and in love.
For any lovers of American Revolution historical fiction and romance, this is a great book! You can tell how much time went into research for this story, and as a reader and history lover, I appreciate it! I recommend reading the first book in this series, The Lady and the Loyalist, before reading this one.
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 29, 2025
4.5 stars
As always, Stephanie McRae's research is impeccable! I learned so many new things about the American Revolution from reading this book.
While a romance at its heart, The Hero and the Patriot really digs deep into what it means to be an American. At times I found myself wanting more of the history and less of the romance...gasp!
It was so easy to picture Colonial Virginia through the descriptions and that really made the story come to life.
I really had a great time reading this, particularly the last third of the book when the action really picked up and the stakes felt almost insurmountable. I know how the story ends, so to speak, yet I was still on the edge of my seat to see how it would all unfold.
"They would all be Americans, and one blessed day, that would be all that mattered."
My earliest ancestors came here on a British ship (not the Mayflower) in the 1600s. Despite that, I am no more American than those who participated in a naturalization ceremony in Salt Lake City just a week ago. Rural Americans are no more American than those who live in cities. We are all Americans just by the sheer luck of living here.
"The most essential freedom is the freedom to disagree."
We have always disagreed on what America should be. Those who think that somehow we're living in a time that is more contentious than ever would do well to learn more about our history as a nation and as a people.
"When ye are my age, ye will understand that joy doesna come from a lack of obstacles. It comes despite the obstacles. ...Some things are worth fighting for."
Thank you for the advanced copy, Stephanie! This is truly a work of art and a much-needed reminder that America is still worth fighting for, that being a patriot means more than draping yourself in the flag, and that we can find joy in the midst of chaos.
As always, Stephanie McRae's research is impeccable! I learned so many new things about the American Revolution from reading this book.
While a romance at its heart, The Hero and the Patriot really digs deep into what it means to be an American. At times I found myself wanting more of the history and less of the romance...gasp!
It was so easy to picture Colonial Virginia through the descriptions and that really made the story come to life.
I really had a great time reading this, particularly the last third of the book when the action really picked up and the stakes felt almost insurmountable. I know how the story ends, so to speak, yet I was still on the edge of my seat to see how it would all unfold.
"They would all be Americans, and one blessed day, that would be all that mattered."
My earliest ancestors came here on a British ship (not the Mayflower) in the 1600s. Despite that, I am no more American than those who participated in a naturalization ceremony in Salt Lake City just a week ago. Rural Americans are no more American than those who live in cities. We are all Americans just by the sheer luck of living here.
"The most essential freedom is the freedom to disagree."
We have always disagreed on what America should be. Those who think that somehow we're living in a time that is more contentious than ever would do well to learn more about our history as a nation and as a people.
"When ye are my age, ye will understand that joy doesna come from a lack of obstacles. It comes despite the obstacles. ...Some things are worth fighting for."
Thank you for the advanced copy, Stephanie! This is truly a work of art and a much-needed reminder that America is still worth fighting for, that being a patriot means more than draping yourself in the flag, and that we can find joy in the midst of chaos.
August 21, 2025
I highly recommend this story!
It was a joy to read an early copy of The Hero and the Patriot. I have been quite excited for this story, Book Two in the Heart of the Revolution series. I loved it!!!
In Book One, The Lady and the Loyalist, I was introduced to a new-to-me author. Stephanie’s writing style flows with beautiful prose, intrigue, and an attention to historic detail. She quickly became a favorite storyteller and an auto-read author.
Books set in the time of the American Revolution are some of my favorites. In The Hero and the Patriot we return to 1775 Colonial Williamsburg, VA to both the best friend and cousin of a main character from Book One. It warmed my heart to better know Quill and Emmeline and “watch” their love grow! Delightfully romantic, indeed. ❤️
This story was so captivating and descriptive that I easily found myself transported back in time and became as a contemporary of Quill and Emmeline while their love story unfolded. I also felt the charged atmosphere of political unrest and the challenges the characters faced as though experiencing that history-in-the making for myself.
Usually a sign of a 5-star read for me is a book full of sticky tabs, marking all my favorite quotes. Until I can get my hands on my own beloved physical copy after release day, all the quotes I have highlighted in my ebook make it glow! 🥰
Bonus treats are the Map, Glossary, and Historical Notes.
Thank you, Stephanie, for the ARC and another wonderful story. 💛
It was a joy to read an early copy of The Hero and the Patriot. I have been quite excited for this story, Book Two in the Heart of the Revolution series. I loved it!!!
In Book One, The Lady and the Loyalist, I was introduced to a new-to-me author. Stephanie’s writing style flows with beautiful prose, intrigue, and an attention to historic detail. She quickly became a favorite storyteller and an auto-read author.
Books set in the time of the American Revolution are some of my favorites. In The Hero and the Patriot we return to 1775 Colonial Williamsburg, VA to both the best friend and cousin of a main character from Book One. It warmed my heart to better know Quill and Emmeline and “watch” their love grow! Delightfully romantic, indeed. ❤️
This story was so captivating and descriptive that I easily found myself transported back in time and became as a contemporary of Quill and Emmeline while their love story unfolded. I also felt the charged atmosphere of political unrest and the challenges the characters faced as though experiencing that history-in-the making for myself.
Usually a sign of a 5-star read for me is a book full of sticky tabs, marking all my favorite quotes. Until I can get my hands on my own beloved physical copy after release day, all the quotes I have highlighted in my ebook make it glow! 🥰
Bonus treats are the Map, Glossary, and Historical Notes.
Thank you, Stephanie, for the ARC and another wonderful story. 💛
September 3, 2025
This was the first book I have read by this author and it certainly did not disappoint! I was riveted to this account of our American history, although told in fiction form. Just to be reminded of our country's history and the reasons both sides were fighting. Even being reminded of why some tried, though unsuccessfully, to stay in the middle and not seek out war, was very interesting. The details that the author gave, is amazing. It feels like you are right there in the action of the book. I really appreciated the glossary since the story contains many words that that These are appropriate for the time of the book (1775) but readers might have trouble figuring out. For me, most of them could be figured out in the context, but I read the glossary before I read the book. The interaction between the families and people are fascinating. We see young love grow and old hatred rise to a boil. Everything is sprinkled with the knowledge that God is in control and "all things work together for good." There are lessons from history that we can, and should learn today. This was a great book that kept me intrigued throughout.
December 7, 2025
Great book enjoyed it very much and recommend it to anyone who likes to read stories that occur during the period around the American Revolution. It has always been a favorite time in American history for me so if you enjoy reading stories that occur at this time you will enjoy reading this book. Loved the characters and their interactions with each other especially their loyalty to each other regardless of which side they supported. The H and h were on the side of America but didn’t always want war. In the end the H signed up to serve when previously he wanted peace not war. The H in the end gets to court the h with the permission of her father and then the h says yes to his request to become his wife when he has completed his service. What the future is for them is not known. Hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. Enjoy!
September 15, 2025
A delightful tale full of patriotism and bravery!
What a beautiful story. I appreciate the themes of hope and freedom that echoed through this plot. The romance, prose, descriptions, and plot are all sublime. The American Revolution era is one of my favorites in history, and Stephanie McRae portrayed the setting so well.
Emmeline is a delightful heroine. Her internal thoughts resonated with me; she is quite a dreamer, but she also has a practical side. (Very relatable!) I enjoyed seeing how she matured over the course of the plot. The love she has for her country is inspiring. 🫶🏻
Quill is a fabulous hero. His spunk, wit, and tenderness toward Emmeline made my heart sing.
(I received an eARC of this story from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
What a beautiful story. I appreciate the themes of hope and freedom that echoed through this plot. The romance, prose, descriptions, and plot are all sublime. The American Revolution era is one of my favorites in history, and Stephanie McRae portrayed the setting so well.
Emmeline is a delightful heroine. Her internal thoughts resonated with me; she is quite a dreamer, but she also has a practical side. (Very relatable!) I enjoyed seeing how she matured over the course of the plot. The love she has for her country is inspiring. 🫶🏻
Quill is a fabulous hero. His spunk, wit, and tenderness toward Emmeline made my heart sing.
(I received an eARC of this story from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
October 7, 2025
So sweet♥️ I so enjoyed this! I love how you can tell how much the author loves history when the attention to detail and well researched information blend together to create a beautifully written story that provides unique insight into times long past.
Emmeline and Quill🥹 The sweetest characters. She’s quite the romantic, and I love that Quill sees her for who she is and loves her for it. He truly is her hero in every way, and her brave spirit is the perfect match for his. Time seemed to suspend when they were together, bringing solace to each other in the turbulent beginnings of the Revolution.
A few things I loved♥️
-Catching fireflies
-The painted fox
-When they used their first names🫠
-Forehead kisses
*Thank you to the author for this sweet ARC. All opinions are my own.
Emmeline and Quill🥹 The sweetest characters. She’s quite the romantic, and I love that Quill sees her for who she is and loves her for it. He truly is her hero in every way, and her brave spirit is the perfect match for his. Time seemed to suspend when they were together, bringing solace to each other in the turbulent beginnings of the Revolution.
A few things I loved♥️
-Catching fireflies
-The painted fox
-When they used their first names🫠
-Forehead kisses
*Thank you to the author for this sweet ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 14, 2025
I was so happy to receive an ARC of this wonderful book!
There’s was much to love about this beautiful story. It was very evident the author did extensive research and was very knowledgeable of the time period. I love learning history while reading books.
The romance was sweet, and blossomed so beautifully.
The characters’ faith shown throughout , as their love for their country. Overall, such an enjoyable read with lovely character development, swoon worthy romance, and informative historical facts.
Thank you much for allowing me to recorded a d advanced copy and enjoy this lovely book!
There’s was much to love about this beautiful story. It was very evident the author did extensive research and was very knowledgeable of the time period. I love learning history while reading books.
The romance was sweet, and blossomed so beautifully.
The characters’ faith shown throughout , as their love for their country. Overall, such an enjoyable read with lovely character development, swoon worthy romance, and informative historical facts.
Thank you much for allowing me to recorded a d advanced copy and enjoy this lovely book!
October 2, 2025
Wonderful Second Book by this brilliant Author
Well, this is a delight to have found this new to me author. Now up there with my other favorite authors, Laura Franyz comes to mind, I hope she will follow up with more truly exciting and historical novels!
Loved both stories. They just kept getting better and better. Truly romantic and noble cast of characters except for the bad guys. No Nobility there...
Believable character developement, interesting ploting and clean historically accurate tales. More please
Well, this is a delight to have found this new to me author. Now up there with my other favorite authors, Laura Franyz comes to mind, I hope she will follow up with more truly exciting and historical novels!
Loved both stories. They just kept getting better and better. Truly romantic and noble cast of characters except for the bad guys. No Nobility there...
Believable character developement, interesting ploting and clean historically accurate tales. More please
August 29, 2025
I love this book so much!! I loved book one, The Lady and the Loyalist and I think I loved book two even more! Emmeline and Quill had my heart right from the start and their romance was just lovely! reading these romances against the backdrop of the American Revolution has been so neat! Staphanie's research and attention to detail in telling her stories is amazing! Read this! You won't regret it!
September 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this story. It was a lovely romantic love story. I was at the edge of my seat for some of the suspenseful
parts of the story. I would have enjoyed more about the Revolution in the story though. The book cover is stunning.
This was a Christian and clean story.
parts of the story. I would have enjoyed more about the Revolution in the story though. The book cover is stunning.
This was a Christian and clean story.
January 3, 2026
Stephanie McRae’s second book in her Heart of the Revolution series is rich in history with a sweet and satisfying romance that kept me turning pages until its satisfying conclusion. I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in the series.
September 29, 2025
THE HERO AND THE PATRIOT
by: Stephanie Mcrae
@stephaniemcraeauthor
••ARC Review: 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~He doesn’t look or act anything like the heroes of her imagination. But maybe that isn’t what she or the colonies need…
“The most essential freedom is the freedom to disagree.”
-THE HERO AND THE PATRIOT, is the dear second book in the heartwarming Heart of the Revolution, a series which follows the fictional romances and real conflicts of Virginians from 1774 (just before the war) through 1781. (Battle of Yorktown). This moving story is filled with beautiful themes of friendship, love, liberty, and loyalty, set in the time of the war for independence. I thoroughly was impressed by the significance of loyalty vs. love, liberty and free speech, friendships and betrayals that take place within this time period and details. But also when the war becomes personal, the time for sitting on fences is past. Watching dear characters rise with courage and strength with what was most at stake, had my heart. The wonderful faith themes woven throughout the story were just right. My friends, this heartwarming story is full of patriotism and bravery! It is worth the moving read! I look forward to more ahead, within this dear series!🙌🏻📚❤️
“Some things were worth living for, worth fighting for, and worth dying for-like freedom, friendship, and the woman he loved.”
•Content: war time, mild peril/danger, betrayal, self-defense/protection, tar and feather scenario, prisoner-war, burning house, loss, grief, no language, kisses only,
“But never doubt I love.“
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Joy doesna come from a lack of obstacles. It comes despite the obstacles.”
#theheroandthepatriot
“We need ta stay together. I canna lose ye.”
#heartoftherevolutionseries
“He had found a lovefire that would never grow cold.”
#stephaniemcrae
“If I die in the cause, I wish ye ta know that I was fighting for ye, not against ye.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“No matter what comes, ye’ll be in my heart and I’ll be in yers.”
by: Stephanie Mcrae
@stephaniemcraeauthor
••ARC Review: 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~He doesn’t look or act anything like the heroes of her imagination. But maybe that isn’t what she or the colonies need…
“The most essential freedom is the freedom to disagree.”
-THE HERO AND THE PATRIOT, is the dear second book in the heartwarming Heart of the Revolution, a series which follows the fictional romances and real conflicts of Virginians from 1774 (just before the war) through 1781. (Battle of Yorktown). This moving story is filled with beautiful themes of friendship, love, liberty, and loyalty, set in the time of the war for independence. I thoroughly was impressed by the significance of loyalty vs. love, liberty and free speech, friendships and betrayals that take place within this time period and details. But also when the war becomes personal, the time for sitting on fences is past. Watching dear characters rise with courage and strength with what was most at stake, had my heart. The wonderful faith themes woven throughout the story were just right. My friends, this heartwarming story is full of patriotism and bravery! It is worth the moving read! I look forward to more ahead, within this dear series!🙌🏻📚❤️
“Some things were worth living for, worth fighting for, and worth dying for-like freedom, friendship, and the woman he loved.”
•Content: war time, mild peril/danger, betrayal, self-defense/protection, tar and feather scenario, prisoner-war, burning house, loss, grief, no language, kisses only,
“But never doubt I love.“
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Joy doesna come from a lack of obstacles. It comes despite the obstacles.”
#theheroandthepatriot
“We need ta stay together. I canna lose ye.”
#heartoftherevolutionseries
“He had found a lovefire that would never grow cold.”
#stephaniemcrae
“If I die in the cause, I wish ye ta know that I was fighting for ye, not against ye.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“No matter what comes, ye’ll be in my heart and I’ll be in yers.”
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews