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A Basket Brigade Christmas
Not even the Civil War can smother the spirit of Christmas, especially in the town of Decatur, Illinois, in 1862, where the ladies of the Basket Brigade board trains to minister to Union soldiers, offering fried chicken, pickled peaches, pound cake, and other dainties to men who haven’t eaten a home-cooked meal since enlisting. Join Sarah, Lucy, and Zona, three compassionate members of the brigade, as they care for wounded heroes—and find love along the way.
400 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2015
46 people are currently reading
374 people want to read
About the author
Judith McCoy Miller
65 books632 followersJudith McCoy Miller is an award-winning author whose avid research and love for history are reflected in her bestselling novels. Judy and her husband make their home in Topeka, Kansas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
January 1, 2022
Thiz was a great book to end my 2021 Goodreads reading challenge..
I really liked this book. BTW, this book contains 3 stories and the event is the same for all 3. The Basket Brigade is a group of women who bring food, and blankets for wounded soldiers on a train. I found all 3 of these stories very amusing. This book is a great holiday book with romance in it.
I really liked this book. BTW, this book contains 3 stories and the event is the same for all 3. The Basket Brigade is a group of women who bring food, and blankets for wounded soldiers on a train. I found all 3 of these stories very amusing. This book is a great holiday book with romance in it.
January 26, 2017
I'm finally finishing these sweet stories. And I've been sick with the flu or I would of finished much sooner. Anyway, I loved it.
The first one was my favorite and I loved what the woman were doing in this town for all the wounded men. There was so much to learn from each story about God, me and how that all fits together in this world. I was encouraged to look around my world and see how God can use me.
And of course there was romance in each one and that's always my favorite part! I would definitely read another by these authors.
The first one was my favorite and I loved what the woman were doing in this town for all the wounded men. There was so much to learn from each story about God, me and how that all fits together in this world. I was encouraged to look around my world and see how God can use me.
And of course there was romance in each one and that's always my favorite part! I would definitely read another by these authors.
December 9, 2015
Every now and then I like to read a book out of my usual genre. This book is unique in that it has three separate stories written by three different authors.
The first story is about a woman who has lost both her parents and is the sole heir of their estate. She's a shy girl who is trying to find her way in the world. I thought it was well written for the most part, however, on a few occasions I felt that the dialogue was over-dramatic and unrealistic. It wasn't enough to discourage my reading as the story itself was good.
The second story was the thread that connected the stories. It was about a girl whose twin brother is off fighting the war, and she is lost without him. She has her parents but is still trying to find her own way. Written in a much richer and more fulfilling way, there are much less unnecessary dramatics and it flows well.
The third story is about a spinster who has lost her parents and was abandoned by her fiance and has become bitter over the years. This is where it becomes confusing; we are supposed to feel sorry for her but at the same time the author reveals that she was an only child and spoiled brat that always wants her own way. And we are to find out that that is why she lost her fiance. He somehow still loves her but thinks she doesn't love him. We are told much information and gory details about the work that her fiance is doing. He has become a doctor and the graphic descriptions of the injuries of war could have been left out for me. There are many other sources to find out about that information. The story just didn't work for me.
As a complete book, I really enjoyed that the three stories intertwined and the characters were in all three stories. I love reading about the Civil War, which is what sparked my interest in the first place. The fact that there really was a Basket Brigade and that the women were committed to helping the soldiers in any fashion they could added to my pleasure. They were real angels of mercy.
Outside of the irritation with the dialog, I really liked this book. I wish that when they noted that this was a true operation that they would have included how they came upon the idea, how they chose the authors and basically how they thought to put this book together. I would welcome more stories about this subject in this format.
The first story is about a woman who has lost both her parents and is the sole heir of their estate. She's a shy girl who is trying to find her way in the world. I thought it was well written for the most part, however, on a few occasions I felt that the dialogue was over-dramatic and unrealistic. It wasn't enough to discourage my reading as the story itself was good.
The second story was the thread that connected the stories. It was about a girl whose twin brother is off fighting the war, and she is lost without him. She has her parents but is still trying to find her own way. Written in a much richer and more fulfilling way, there are much less unnecessary dramatics and it flows well.
The third story is about a spinster who has lost her parents and was abandoned by her fiance and has become bitter over the years. This is where it becomes confusing; we are supposed to feel sorry for her but at the same time the author reveals that she was an only child and spoiled brat that always wants her own way. And we are to find out that that is why she lost her fiance. He somehow still loves her but thinks she doesn't love him. We are told much information and gory details about the work that her fiance is doing. He has become a doctor and the graphic descriptions of the injuries of war could have been left out for me. There are many other sources to find out about that information. The story just didn't work for me.
As a complete book, I really enjoyed that the three stories intertwined and the characters were in all three stories. I love reading about the Civil War, which is what sparked my interest in the first place. The fact that there really was a Basket Brigade and that the women were committed to helping the soldiers in any fashion they could added to my pleasure. They were real angels of mercy.
Outside of the irritation with the dialog, I really liked this book. I wish that when they noted that this was a true operation that they would have included how they came upon the idea, how they chose the authors and basically how they thought to put this book together. I would welcome more stories about this subject in this format.
December 8, 2015
A wonderful collection of stories interconnected by the ladies of Decatur, Illinois who provided food and aid to wounded soldiers passing through on hospital trains during the Civil War.
Enjoyed all three of these well-written delightful tales. Each story is separate, but builds on the story before, mentioning people of the town and events leading up to Christmas. Themes of faith, family, friendship and love are woven skillfully throughout. Love that the authors are so careful with historical details, even with authentic recipes, which are included at the end. It was interesting to learn about the Basket Brigade, which I'd never heard of before, and heartwarming to read about how they gave so sacrificially to ease the suffering of the wounded soldiers passing through their town.
Recommend especially for Christian historical fiction fans!
4.5 stars
(Thank you for the book provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)
Enjoyed all three of these well-written delightful tales. Each story is separate, but builds on the story before, mentioning people of the town and events leading up to Christmas. Themes of faith, family, friendship and love are woven skillfully throughout. Love that the authors are so careful with historical details, even with authentic recipes, which are included at the end. It was interesting to learn about the Basket Brigade, which I'd never heard of before, and heartwarming to read about how they gave so sacrificially to ease the suffering of the wounded soldiers passing through their town.
Recommend especially for Christian historical fiction fans!
4.5 stars
(Thank you for the book provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)
November 4, 2016
As far as Christmas themed books go this one is low on the holiday reads. Christmas is just a mere mention here and there and mostly at the end of the novellas. The actual stories themselves were very typical romances; nothing amazing here for me as a reader.
January 10, 2018
Three separate stories, from three new-to-me authors. While each story is about a different woman in Decatur, Illinois, there are several characters who appear in all three books, most notably Mrs. Collins, who reminded me of a less offensive Little House on the Prairie Mrs. Oleson. In each story she was a spiteful, self-centered, full of herself woman, who then exhibited some humanity at the end of the story.
The first story, “A Stitch in Time”, by Stephanie Grace Whitson, centers around Lucy, whose deceased father left her a dry goods store and a small fortune thanks to some savvy investments. While volunteering with the Basket Brigade one day, she is appalled that the soldiers traveling on the hospital train don't have enough blankets or socks to keep warm, and she comes up with the idea to open her home as a meeting place for any of the women of Decatur who want to volunteer to sew socks and make quilts and blankets to be distributed on the trains. Jonah is the manager of her store, and has been in love with Lucy forever, but because of a leg injury that keeps him from enlisting, and the differences in their stations in life, he doesn't expect his love to ever be reciprocated. While this was a sweet story, I didn't really connect with Lucy, who was completely oblivious to Jonah and his feelings until the very end.
The second story, “A Pinch of Love”, by Judith Miller, was my favorite, hence the four star rating. Sarah's mother is one of the organizers and leaders of the Basket Brigade, and when she falls ill, Sarah has to take her place. Sarah has avoided volunteering, as she doesn't think she can deal with seeing the wounded soldiers, but she sucks it up and does her duty. Jacob wants to be fighting at the front, and is disappointed to be assigned to travel with the hospital trains to look out for the wounded soldiers. Until he meets Sarah, of course. I very much liked both Sarah and Jacob, and they slowly get to know one another and develop feelings for each other. Their growing relationship appealed to me more than the non-existent until the end relationship of the previous couple, and the obstacles they had to overcome – another young man who wants Sarah for himself and pretty much stalks her and lies to her, and Jacob's still hurtful memories of his former fiance who turned around and married someone else – were very well written and more realistic for me.
The third story, Endless Melody, by Nancy Moser, seemed to drag on too long, but I think that had less to do with the length of the story and was more because the main characters were living completely separate lives, withe him in another city, and were kept apart for most of the story. Zona and Cardiff were planning to marry fifteen years ago, when Cardiff suddenly left to fight in the war between Texas and Mexico, leaving Zona angry and heartbroken. Cardiff wrote many letters to her, but she never replied, which left him angry and heartbroken. As the story progressed, I kept waiting for them to be reunited, and in the meantime I didn't find either character particularly appealing. I was a little more sympathetic to them as the reasons behind their behavior was revealed, but they never fully resonated with me, and when they did finally meet again, the story was suddenly and abruptly over.
Despite the book's title, this isn't really a Christmas story, or rather Christmas stories, as the season wasn't mentioned that often. The third story does have Zona putting together a Christmas musicale, and some of her group of singers serenading the hospital trains with Christmas carols, but there isn't much else Christmas related.
Review first posted on my blog.
The first story, “A Stitch in Time”, by Stephanie Grace Whitson, centers around Lucy, whose deceased father left her a dry goods store and a small fortune thanks to some savvy investments. While volunteering with the Basket Brigade one day, she is appalled that the soldiers traveling on the hospital train don't have enough blankets or socks to keep warm, and she comes up with the idea to open her home as a meeting place for any of the women of Decatur who want to volunteer to sew socks and make quilts and blankets to be distributed on the trains. Jonah is the manager of her store, and has been in love with Lucy forever, but because of a leg injury that keeps him from enlisting, and the differences in their stations in life, he doesn't expect his love to ever be reciprocated. While this was a sweet story, I didn't really connect with Lucy, who was completely oblivious to Jonah and his feelings until the very end.
The second story, “A Pinch of Love”, by Judith Miller, was my favorite, hence the four star rating. Sarah's mother is one of the organizers and leaders of the Basket Brigade, and when she falls ill, Sarah has to take her place. Sarah has avoided volunteering, as she doesn't think she can deal with seeing the wounded soldiers, but she sucks it up and does her duty. Jacob wants to be fighting at the front, and is disappointed to be assigned to travel with the hospital trains to look out for the wounded soldiers. Until he meets Sarah, of course. I very much liked both Sarah and Jacob, and they slowly get to know one another and develop feelings for each other. Their growing relationship appealed to me more than the non-existent until the end relationship of the previous couple, and the obstacles they had to overcome – another young man who wants Sarah for himself and pretty much stalks her and lies to her, and Jacob's still hurtful memories of his former fiance who turned around and married someone else – were very well written and more realistic for me.
The third story, Endless Melody, by Nancy Moser, seemed to drag on too long, but I think that had less to do with the length of the story and was more because the main characters were living completely separate lives, withe him in another city, and were kept apart for most of the story. Zona and Cardiff were planning to marry fifteen years ago, when Cardiff suddenly left to fight in the war between Texas and Mexico, leaving Zona angry and heartbroken. Cardiff wrote many letters to her, but she never replied, which left him angry and heartbroken. As the story progressed, I kept waiting for them to be reunited, and in the meantime I didn't find either character particularly appealing. I was a little more sympathetic to them as the reasons behind their behavior was revealed, but they never fully resonated with me, and when they did finally meet again, the story was suddenly and abruptly over.
Despite the book's title, this isn't really a Christmas story, or rather Christmas stories, as the season wasn't mentioned that often. The third story does have Zona putting together a Christmas musicale, and some of her group of singers serenading the hospital trains with Christmas carols, but there isn't much else Christmas related.
Review first posted on my blog.
August 11, 2024
Very good book. Focuses on civil war and the wounded. It reminds us to do our best for others regardless of our resources and to not be too proud to apologize when we have done wrong. Enjoyable read!
January 18, 2025
Enjoyed this book of three stories that took place during the civil war. Based on the true story of women in Decatur, IL who served food to the wounded soldiers traveling by train.
June 23, 2016
I received a free digital copy from the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest feedback.
A Basket Brigade Christmas tells three different short stories during the American Civil War, all connected to a town called Decatur in Illinois where a group of women created something called the 'Basket Brigade'. The whole town got involved with it and people made food, coffee, socks, blankets and other things for the wounded soldiers who came through the town on a train.
A Stitch in Time by Stephanie Grace Whitson
This short story surrounded a woman called Lucy Maddox who took on some of the more powerful matriarchy in the small town Decatur, Illinois, to set up a new sewing circle for the Basket Brigade. While this book was quite pleasant to read, it didn't really sparkle and I found some of the dialogue a bit stiff, even for the time period. I also would have liked a bit more chemistry between Lucy and Silas considering he's suppose to be in love with her, other than one brief hands touching moment at the start.
A Pinch of Love by Judith Miller
In this story, a young woman called Sarah McHenry has to get over her fear of helping out the Basket Brigade with the wounded men on the trains when her mother, who normally plays a key role, falls ill. Sarah meets Jacob Curtis, a soldier who patrols the train and falls in love. The pair have to get over some obstacles including a local man intent on making Sarah his and Jacob's jealousy. This was probably my favourite story of the three however after a certain point it started going around in circles. I also felt that Jacob's jealousy wasn't always explainable - especially when it came to the locket. Sarah has a twin brother, why would he never even stumble to that conclusion. I was also disappointed that Matthew never got any kind of comeuppance. He was rather forceful and manipulative and I felt he deserved to be taken down a notch or two.
Endless Melody by Nancy Moser
This was my least favourite story of the lot. I didn't really care that much about either character as it seemed they'd both been a bit selfish and silly. These characters were slightly older than the other two stories, being in their mid-thirties rather than early twenties. In this one Zona Evans, mistress of the local choir, is organizing the Christmas musicale but must work without the use of the men in the town. She also keeps remembering her sweetheart of 15 years ago who went to serve in the Mexican War and never returned. This was just a bit boring for me.
A Basket Brigade Christmas tells three different short stories during the American Civil War, all connected to a town called Decatur in Illinois where a group of women created something called the 'Basket Brigade'. The whole town got involved with it and people made food, coffee, socks, blankets and other things for the wounded soldiers who came through the town on a train.
A Stitch in Time by Stephanie Grace Whitson
This short story surrounded a woman called Lucy Maddox who took on some of the more powerful matriarchy in the small town Decatur, Illinois, to set up a new sewing circle for the Basket Brigade. While this book was quite pleasant to read, it didn't really sparkle and I found some of the dialogue a bit stiff, even for the time period. I also would have liked a bit more chemistry between Lucy and Silas considering he's suppose to be in love with her, other than one brief hands touching moment at the start.
A Pinch of Love by Judith Miller
In this story, a young woman called Sarah McHenry has to get over her fear of helping out the Basket Brigade with the wounded men on the trains when her mother, who normally plays a key role, falls ill. Sarah meets Jacob Curtis, a soldier who patrols the train and falls in love. The pair have to get over some obstacles including a local man intent on making Sarah his and Jacob's jealousy. This was probably my favourite story of the three however after a certain point it started going around in circles. I also felt that Jacob's jealousy wasn't always explainable - especially when it came to the locket. Sarah has a twin brother, why would he never even stumble to that conclusion. I was also disappointed that Matthew never got any kind of comeuppance. He was rather forceful and manipulative and I felt he deserved to be taken down a notch or two.
Endless Melody by Nancy Moser
This was my least favourite story of the lot. I didn't really care that much about either character as it seemed they'd both been a bit selfish and silly. These characters were slightly older than the other two stories, being in their mid-thirties rather than early twenties. In this one Zona Evans, mistress of the local choir, is organizing the Christmas musicale but must work without the use of the men in the town. She also keeps remembering her sweetheart of 15 years ago who went to serve in the Mexican War and never returned. This was just a bit boring for me.
August 15, 2015
Title: A Basket Brigade Christmas
Authors: Judith Miller, Nancy Moser, Stephanie Grace Whitson
Publisher: Barbour Publishing, Inc.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"A Basket Brigade Christmas" Three Women, Three Love Stories, One Country Divided By: Judith Miller, Nancy Moser, Stephanie Grace Whitson
What I liked about this novel....
Three wonderful stories of how they came together from Decatur, Illinois meeting the medical trains all happening during the civil war....where we find a these stories are interwoven being that they are three books in one. It was quite interesting as one read will continue on from the other...during this historical time. I found this read so interesting in learning about the 'Basket Brigade' which turned out to be such a heartwarming stories as each story brings out the 'suffering of the wounded soldiers who were passing through their town.'
The first story being about Lucy who used her home to help the ones in need of care. Will she in the end be able to choose the right person for herself?
The next book was about Sarah...who had a hard time in her life...would she pull herself through it all in the end?
And lastly the third book...was about Zona....who seemed to be very much into herself.
It was very interesting seeing how these three authors will give the reader a separate story with one building on to the next story...with all coming up to the Christmas season. All of these authors were able to put such a interesting well written read together...giving the reader such a intriguing and captivating read where you will find from the read...friendship, love, and family. I love this historical details of this story and I don't want to leave out those authentic recipes that will be included in the end of the read. I would definitely recommend this read especially to Christian Historical Fiction fans.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest.
Authors: Judith Miller, Nancy Moser, Stephanie Grace Whitson
Publisher: Barbour Publishing, Inc.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"A Basket Brigade Christmas" Three Women, Three Love Stories, One Country Divided By: Judith Miller, Nancy Moser, Stephanie Grace Whitson
What I liked about this novel....
Three wonderful stories of how they came together from Decatur, Illinois meeting the medical trains all happening during the civil war....where we find a these stories are interwoven being that they are three books in one. It was quite interesting as one read will continue on from the other...during this historical time. I found this read so interesting in learning about the 'Basket Brigade' which turned out to be such a heartwarming stories as each story brings out the 'suffering of the wounded soldiers who were passing through their town.'
The first story being about Lucy who used her home to help the ones in need of care. Will she in the end be able to choose the right person for herself?
The next book was about Sarah...who had a hard time in her life...would she pull herself through it all in the end?
And lastly the third book...was about Zona....who seemed to be very much into herself.
It was very interesting seeing how these three authors will give the reader a separate story with one building on to the next story...with all coming up to the Christmas season. All of these authors were able to put such a interesting well written read together...giving the reader such a intriguing and captivating read where you will find from the read...friendship, love, and family. I love this historical details of this story and I don't want to leave out those authentic recipes that will be included in the end of the read. I would definitely recommend this read especially to Christian Historical Fiction fans.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest.
July 23, 2015
Three charming stories of the residents of Decatur, Illinois, who came together to meet the medical trains during the civil war.
The stories main characters are women that became involved with The Basket Brigade which is a group of ladies that provided food, treats and comfort to the soldiers.
They were well written stories and one of the many aspects I enjoyed was that the stories were interwoven.
I liked the fact that I could continue to see how the characters still had a presence in the towns selfless caring of the soldiers.
The authors were all new to me, but I'd certainly read more of their work as they took such care to being authentic to the time period, even to the recipes that are included.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest.
The stories main characters are women that became involved with The Basket Brigade which is a group of ladies that provided food, treats and comfort to the soldiers.
They were well written stories and one of the many aspects I enjoyed was that the stories were interwoven.
I liked the fact that I could continue to see how the characters still had a presence in the towns selfless caring of the soldiers.
The authors were all new to me, but I'd certainly read more of their work as they took such care to being authentic to the time period, even to the recipes that are included.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest.
February 8, 2017
I really enjoyed this collection of Civil War Christmas novellas that were inspired by the true story of the Basket Brigade women of Decatur, Illinois, during the years of the Civil War. These industrious and patriotic women took on the daunting task of cooking meals and making quilts and warm socks as well as providing prayers and encouraging words to men longing for home and the families they left behind. A Basket Brigade Christmas was a well written and warm hearted mix of American History, Christian values and the healing power of prayer and love at a tumultuous time in our country's history.
January 23, 2017
So charming and sweet! The focus is on the characters and the stories, with just a light touch of history and Christmas. I loved all three of the stories...all were special in their own way. The first two shared the most about the basket brigade, and the final one was a nice romantic story that shared a bit more of a faith message and had a more Christmas feel to it. Each story moves along fairly quickly, though I wish the Nancy Moser story hadn't ended quite so abruptly, as it didn't seem very practical for the characters to get together so suddenly at the end (but that's just a minor nit-pick). ;) Each author shares a few recipes in the back for you to try!
October 3, 2015
A Stitch in Time by Stephanie Grace Whitson: Late September 1862, Decatur, Illinois, the Civil War has divided families and hearts and now Lucy Maddox's community has experienced their first personal loss. Lucy has lost her neighbor and one true love to the war, but Jonah Kincaid only considered her a friend. That does not stop the ache in her heart or the loss of his family and the small community. Lucy steps up to help his grieving mother with the Ladies' Aid as she can not serve as the president while in her year of grieving and mourning. Lucy remembers the young men she has ministered to on the trains as she helped deliver baskets of food to the soldiers say how cold they were and she has the idea to open her home to the ladies of the community to sew blankets and knit socks for the men. The ladies also begin including letters to the soldiers with the blankets and socks and Lucy develops a growing correspondence with one of the soldiers while her faithful employee, Silas, continues to manage and run their mercantile and help her efforts with the Ladies Aid project. Two men are interested in Lucy but who will win her heart?
MY REVIEW of A Stitch in Time by Stephanie Grace Whitson: What courage Lucy shows as she is alone in the world with both her parents deceased and she willingly opens her home to the ladies of the community to lend comfort to the soldiers. Her father was always opposed to inviting people into their home or rather their mansion but her mother was always doing whatever she could to help others and would certainly smile at Lucy's efforts. Silas quietly helps Lucy while secretly longing to marry her and protect her forever while Lucy gets involved with a soldier she has been corresponding with but Silas and several others are suspicious of Private Greene. Readers will enjoy seeing what happens with Private Greene, Silas, and Lucy as well as the ladies work on the blankets and socks. I rate this novella 4 stars and think readers of historical fiction will enjoy it.
A Pinch of Love by Judith Miller: October 1862, Decatur, Illinois,Sarah McHenry is helping her parents run the family bakery alone while her twin brother, Samuel, is away fighting for the Union. Sarah now has the added burden of her mother's sudden illness. Her mother has been in charge of the Basket Brigade (a group of local women who carry hot meals to the wounded soldiers on the train each day) and she begs Sarah to take over her duties while she is ill and confined to bed. Sarah has never helped her mother with the project because she simply could not bear to look at the wounded young men, knowing her brother could well be hurt somewhere as his letters were few and far between. Sarah is a loving, dutiful daughter though and so she reluctantly agrees. She is extremely anxious as she begins the work. But she soon has a change of heart when she meets the handsome, kind Corporal Jacob Curtis, assigned as aide to assist the wounded in the railcar she is serving food to and he puts himself at her ready disposal as well. They begin exchanging letters each time they meet to serve the soldiers since their time together is limited and they both desire to get to know the other better. Will love grow for this young couple or will the irritating, manipulative local man, Matthew, win her over despite her distaste for him?
MY REVIEW of A Pinch of Love by Judith Miller: I could actually imagine the delightful smells of the stews, soups, breads, coffee and desserts as Sarah and the Basket Brigade served the wounded young soldiers. The compassion that Sarah shows to the young men was so touching and I could not help but think that she would be an amazing nurse. She shows the same tender care and compassion for her mother as she tends to her needs. It is hard to imagine that she felt she was unsuited for the position with her mother's group of ladies. She imagines that each of the young men could easily be her own twin brother, Samuel, and she hopes and prays that some kind soul is treating him with the same love and concern that she shares with the young men on the train. The tension between Sarah and Matthew, the manipulative and abusive young local man, add to the intrigue of this novella as well as the budding relationship between her and Jacob. What path will Sarah choose for her life or will she simply resign herself to running her parents' bakery for them and never marrying and having a family of her own? This novella was my favorite among the collection and I have long been a fan of Judith Miller's writing so it came as no surprise. I rate this novella 5 stars and think that readers will also give it high ratings.
Endless Melody by Nancy Moser: November, 1862, Decatur, Illionois, Zona Evans, the young single musician of the community always heads up the church Christmas musicale and this year presents new challenges. One of the local prominent rich ladies has always had a solo in the musicale but her singing leaves much to be desired, will Zona have the nerve to leave her out this year and invoke the wrath of the woman and her family? One of the young boys who has always participated is experiencing the voice change that accompanies puberty. How will he ever be replaced? And one young man has the voice of an angel but his grandfather forbids him from singing. How can she convince his grandfather to allow little Johnny to use his gift? She was to marry Cardiff Kensington fifteen years ago but he left to fight in the Mexican War and she never heard from him again. Little did she know that he wrote letters to her for years but her parents hid them from her. Will they find each other again? or is all hope gone?
MY REVIEW of Endless Melody by Nancy Moser: Singing is a favorite activity of mine and so this novella touched many special nerves and memories for me. It was truly moving to imagine the church group singing Christmas carols for the wounded soldiers on the train as the Basket Brigade ladies served them warm, nourishing food. I felt empathy for Zona and Cardiff as they each thought the other had deserted them. Readers will delight in seeing how things are resolved for Zona, Cardiff and little Johnny. I rate this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers. Those who love historical fiction and romance are sure to appreciate this novella. A bonus feature includes actual recipes that were used in the time period and some that were served to the men on the trains. I received an ebook of this collection from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
MY REVIEW of A Stitch in Time by Stephanie Grace Whitson: What courage Lucy shows as she is alone in the world with both her parents deceased and she willingly opens her home to the ladies of the community to lend comfort to the soldiers. Her father was always opposed to inviting people into their home or rather their mansion but her mother was always doing whatever she could to help others and would certainly smile at Lucy's efforts. Silas quietly helps Lucy while secretly longing to marry her and protect her forever while Lucy gets involved with a soldier she has been corresponding with but Silas and several others are suspicious of Private Greene. Readers will enjoy seeing what happens with Private Greene, Silas, and Lucy as well as the ladies work on the blankets and socks. I rate this novella 4 stars and think readers of historical fiction will enjoy it.
A Pinch of Love by Judith Miller: October 1862, Decatur, Illinois,Sarah McHenry is helping her parents run the family bakery alone while her twin brother, Samuel, is away fighting for the Union. Sarah now has the added burden of her mother's sudden illness. Her mother has been in charge of the Basket Brigade (a group of local women who carry hot meals to the wounded soldiers on the train each day) and she begs Sarah to take over her duties while she is ill and confined to bed. Sarah has never helped her mother with the project because she simply could not bear to look at the wounded young men, knowing her brother could well be hurt somewhere as his letters were few and far between. Sarah is a loving, dutiful daughter though and so she reluctantly agrees. She is extremely anxious as she begins the work. But she soon has a change of heart when she meets the handsome, kind Corporal Jacob Curtis, assigned as aide to assist the wounded in the railcar she is serving food to and he puts himself at her ready disposal as well. They begin exchanging letters each time they meet to serve the soldiers since their time together is limited and they both desire to get to know the other better. Will love grow for this young couple or will the irritating, manipulative local man, Matthew, win her over despite her distaste for him?
MY REVIEW of A Pinch of Love by Judith Miller: I could actually imagine the delightful smells of the stews, soups, breads, coffee and desserts as Sarah and the Basket Brigade served the wounded young soldiers. The compassion that Sarah shows to the young men was so touching and I could not help but think that she would be an amazing nurse. She shows the same tender care and compassion for her mother as she tends to her needs. It is hard to imagine that she felt she was unsuited for the position with her mother's group of ladies. She imagines that each of the young men could easily be her own twin brother, Samuel, and she hopes and prays that some kind soul is treating him with the same love and concern that she shares with the young men on the train. The tension between Sarah and Matthew, the manipulative and abusive young local man, add to the intrigue of this novella as well as the budding relationship between her and Jacob. What path will Sarah choose for her life or will she simply resign herself to running her parents' bakery for them and never marrying and having a family of her own? This novella was my favorite among the collection and I have long been a fan of Judith Miller's writing so it came as no surprise. I rate this novella 5 stars and think that readers will also give it high ratings.
Endless Melody by Nancy Moser: November, 1862, Decatur, Illionois, Zona Evans, the young single musician of the community always heads up the church Christmas musicale and this year presents new challenges. One of the local prominent rich ladies has always had a solo in the musicale but her singing leaves much to be desired, will Zona have the nerve to leave her out this year and invoke the wrath of the woman and her family? One of the young boys who has always participated is experiencing the voice change that accompanies puberty. How will he ever be replaced? And one young man has the voice of an angel but his grandfather forbids him from singing. How can she convince his grandfather to allow little Johnny to use his gift? She was to marry Cardiff Kensington fifteen years ago but he left to fight in the Mexican War and she never heard from him again. Little did she know that he wrote letters to her for years but her parents hid them from her. Will they find each other again? or is all hope gone?
MY REVIEW of Endless Melody by Nancy Moser: Singing is a favorite activity of mine and so this novella touched many special nerves and memories for me. It was truly moving to imagine the church group singing Christmas carols for the wounded soldiers on the train as the Basket Brigade ladies served them warm, nourishing food. I felt empathy for Zona and Cardiff as they each thought the other had deserted them. Readers will delight in seeing how things are resolved for Zona, Cardiff and little Johnny. I rate this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers. Those who love historical fiction and romance are sure to appreciate this novella. A bonus feature includes actual recipes that were used in the time period and some that were served to the men on the trains. I received an ebook of this collection from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
April 29, 2019
"He led us step-by-step, closer together."
During the Civil war, wounded soldiers were sent by train to a hospital in Chicago. The train made several stops, one was in Decatur. The townspeople discovered that these wounded and their caretakers were hungry and their clothes were in tatters. The women of the town decided to meet each train of wounded and take baskets with food to the men, later adding knitted socks and quilts. How this evolved through these women is a very interesting story, as is the story of some of the men. When you have men and women of faith meeting each other in a way they never would have otherwise, it makes things interesting too. I'm always amazed at the depth of a story within a collection like this. This holds three somewhat connected stories of love, all completely different, just as in life. Become immersed!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
#ABasketBrigadeChristmas #NetGalley #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout
#JudithMiller #NancyMoser #StephanieGraceWhitson
During the Civil war, wounded soldiers were sent by train to a hospital in Chicago. The train made several stops, one was in Decatur. The townspeople discovered that these wounded and their caretakers were hungry and their clothes were in tatters. The women of the town decided to meet each train of wounded and take baskets with food to the men, later adding knitted socks and quilts. How this evolved through these women is a very interesting story, as is the story of some of the men. When you have men and women of faith meeting each other in a way they never would have otherwise, it makes things interesting too. I'm always amazed at the depth of a story within a collection like this. This holds three somewhat connected stories of love, all completely different, just as in life. Become immersed!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
#ABasketBrigadeChristmas #NetGalley #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout
#JudithMiller #NancyMoser #StephanieGraceWhitson
July 10, 2017
Women fighting the good fight in Decatur, Illinois. Armed with kindness and love, they serve the injured and wounded soldiers travelling by trains through their city with warm clothing, food and Christmas carols - and some of them are finding love within this service.
Lovely collection! I am touched and inspired by the kindness of Decatur womenfolk (this is historically accurate). As Chinese saying goes: "A hundred men may make an encampment, but it takes a woman to make a home."
And these kind women surely made a bit of home for wounded men, coming from cruelty of war, when showing them both a moment of warmth and a practical help. These moments can make a turning point in person’s life.
All of the stories are of a good quality. I personally loved "A Pinch of Love" by Judith Miller the most, because I found the conflict here most believable and well-played. "Endless Melody" by Nancy Moser shows the most maturity in the characters, as they recognize their own weaknesses and strive to make right from their mistakes. "A Stitch in Time" by Stephanie Grace Whitson is a simple, solid, oldschool love story - and who would not like that?
Sweet collection of novellas. Recommended for Christmastime or any other time!
Lovely collection! I am touched and inspired by the kindness of Decatur womenfolk (this is historically accurate). As Chinese saying goes: "A hundred men may make an encampment, but it takes a woman to make a home."
And these kind women surely made a bit of home for wounded men, coming from cruelty of war, when showing them both a moment of warmth and a practical help. These moments can make a turning point in person’s life.
All of the stories are of a good quality. I personally loved "A Pinch of Love" by Judith Miller the most, because I found the conflict here most believable and well-played. "Endless Melody" by Nancy Moser shows the most maturity in the characters, as they recognize their own weaknesses and strive to make right from their mistakes. "A Stitch in Time" by Stephanie Grace Whitson is a simple, solid, oldschool love story - and who would not like that?
Sweet collection of novellas. Recommended for Christmastime or any other time!
November 1, 2018
It took me a while to read this, as I interspersed the three stories with other books. I'm glad I did as it stopped them feeling a bit samey.
Of the three stories, the first one definitely felt the most cohesive and I enjoyed reading it - the romance wasn't overdone and was only one part of the plotline. I loved learning about the Basket Brigade - not something I had heard of before.
The middle story was ok, but there was a bit too much praying to God and letting him sort out your life - I got a bit bored of that and wanted the characters to get out and sort it out for themselves. But apart from that I did like it, even if it was obvious what was going to happen!
The third story had a bit more promise to be different from the first two, but somehow it seemed rushed at the end, as if the author suddenly realised she was up to her word limit. I would have liked to spend a bit more time with Cardiff and Lona - and, without sounding mean, their reconciliation could have been a bit harder to come by to really make the story zing.
So, overall, a good read - light, enjoyable and didn't involve much thinking about!
Of the three stories, the first one definitely felt the most cohesive and I enjoyed reading it - the romance wasn't overdone and was only one part of the plotline. I loved learning about the Basket Brigade - not something I had heard of before.
The middle story was ok, but there was a bit too much praying to God and letting him sort out your life - I got a bit bored of that and wanted the characters to get out and sort it out for themselves. But apart from that I did like it, even if it was obvious what was going to happen!
The third story had a bit more promise to be different from the first two, but somehow it seemed rushed at the end, as if the author suddenly realised she was up to her word limit. I would have liked to spend a bit more time with Cardiff and Lona - and, without sounding mean, their reconciliation could have been a bit harder to come by to really make the story zing.
So, overall, a good read - light, enjoyable and didn't involve much thinking about!
December 20, 2025
A simple Hallmark style collection of romances. these stories are set during the civil war and specifically with a group of women who serve meals to a hospital train that goes through their town. The stories are very basic and the characters are very simple, storylines are predictable. It would have been nice to have more in-depth about what was going on in the country during the civil war. I feel like the characters were a little too calm with life during the civil war. The stories were sweet, in my opinion the best writer of this trio is Nancy Moser. I have read many of her full length novels. This is not a great representation of her talents.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Loved it. Couldn't put it down. I will read it again. I have a copy in my library. I save this rating for my absolute favorite books.
⭐⭐⭐⭐: Enjoyed it very much.
⭐⭐⭐: Liked it.
⭐⭐: Finished it, just ok.
⭐: I didn't like it, don't recommend it. Probably didn't finish it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Loved it. Couldn't put it down. I will read it again. I have a copy in my library. I save this rating for my absolute favorite books.
⭐⭐⭐⭐: Enjoyed it very much.
⭐⭐⭐: Liked it.
⭐⭐: Finished it, just ok.
⭐: I didn't like it, don't recommend it. Probably didn't finish it.
August 21, 2017
This book warmed my heart and warmed me to the bone. I've forgotten how much I enjoyed a good, sweet, Christian love story.
This book was composed of 3 short stories, each one following the paths of a different man and woman. Their stories intertwined but never clashed. I enjoyed the first and last story the most (the third story brought me to tears), with the middle one feeling a bit long winded.
Each author of the stories had a different writing voice and it was shown in their works. But the history was rich, without being dragged out or over done. There was some drama but not enough to make you feel uncomfortable.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone is search of a wholesome read with good messages.
This book was composed of 3 short stories, each one following the paths of a different man and woman. Their stories intertwined but never clashed. I enjoyed the first and last story the most (the third story brought me to tears), with the middle one feeling a bit long winded.
Each author of the stories had a different writing voice and it was shown in their works. But the history was rich, without being dragged out or over done. There was some drama but not enough to make you feel uncomfortable.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone is search of a wholesome read with good messages.
December 13, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed all three stories in this collection. I was unaware of the so-called Basket Brigade of women in Decatur, Illinois, in 1862 who faithfully met the train of Union soldiers being transferred from other hospitals to Chicago each day. These women lovingly ministered to the soldiers, providing food and warm clothing and blankets to the sons and husbands of women all across the northern states. Each of these stories tells about the life of one of the women and the lives each she touched. What a treasure this book is!
February 22, 2021
It was a cute, sweet read.
Set mostly in Autumn and early winter during the Civil War, the town of Decatur, Illinois arranges to meet the trains full of wounded soldier on their way to the Chicago Hospital. They want to provide more than just nourishment.
Each story focuses on a different lady in town and her way of helping the cause. They were each cute but my favourite was "A Pinch of Love" by Judith Miller (the middle book).
Set mostly in Autumn and early winter during the Civil War, the town of Decatur, Illinois arranges to meet the trains full of wounded soldier on their way to the Chicago Hospital. They want to provide more than just nourishment.
Each story focuses on a different lady in town and her way of helping the cause. They were each cute but my favourite was "A Pinch of Love" by Judith Miller (the middle book).
December 10, 2019
When the good women of Decatur, Illinois find out how badly the Union soldiers are suffering without good food or blankets, they step up and bring all that is needed to every train that stops in their town even while dealing with their own losses.
May 5, 2020
A 3-in-1 book during the Civil War. Lucy, Sarah and Zona are part of the Basket Brigade Women who minister to the wounded union soldiers passing thru Decatur, IL on their way to the hospital. Each one will find love along the way and learn some soul-touching lessons.
December 6, 2023
This was a super light read that I picked up while sorting books as a volunteer at my local library. It is loosely based on the real basket brigade in Decatur, IL during the Civil War. It is definitely Hallmark Movie material.
January 19, 2025
Sweet Christmas stories
I really enjoy the anthologies from this publisher. I have yet to be disappointed. It was fun to learn about the basket brigade. It is amazing how much these women did to help alleviate the suffering of those wounded in Civil War battles.
I really enjoy the anthologies from this publisher. I have yet to be disappointed. It was fun to learn about the basket brigade. It is amazing how much these women did to help alleviate the suffering of those wounded in Civil War battles.
December 23, 2018
Light touch of history and a little romance .
January 10, 2019
Marketed as a Christmas read, the book doesn’t really feel too “Christmassy” to me. The plots are quite average, with emphasis on Christian values.
May 25, 2020
Each story is unique, but are intertwined. I think my favorite was the 2nd story. The third story I enjoyed as well because of Johnny. But great lessons altogether.
December 7, 2020
Enjoyable
Three very enjoyable stories about something I had never heard of...the basket brigade. What a fascinating piece of history that probably many like me never knew about.
Three very enjoyable stories about something I had never heard of...the basket brigade. What a fascinating piece of history that probably many like me never knew about.
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