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Petticoats and Patriots #1
For Liberty and Love
She never intended to become a spy … or fall for one.Philadelphia, 1776
As whispers of revolution turn swell into a roar for freedom, Lucy Carlson is no longer content to simply watch from behind the counter of her father’s jewelry shop. When a mysterious woman—none other than Martha Washington—leaves behind a locket, Lucy discovers the piece is more than a pretty keepsake. The necklace is a secret vessel for the revolution that carries the promise of love.
Drawn into a dangerous spy ring, Lucy begins crafting coded messages concealed within the locket’s clever design, living a secret double life and risking everything she holds dear in a time of sacrifice and war.
Continental soldier Branch Barton is a man defined by duty. Tasked with rooting out traitors, he moves through the shadowed world of deception and divided loyalties. He’s trained to trust no one, yet he finds himself drawn into a slow-burning connection with the jeweler’s spirited daughter.
But when Lucy begins to suspect Branch may be a Redcoat in disguise, their fragile bond is tested by mistaken identity, growing mistrust, and the threat of betrayal.
In a war where even allies can become enemies, Lucy and Branch must navigate a world of hidden truths and guarded hearts. With the fate of the colonies—and their hearts—hanging in the balance as Lucy delivers a message in enemy territory, will they find the courage to trust each other and choose love?
Courage built a nation. Love made it worth fighting for.
Throughout 250 years of American history, a well-loved locket finds its way into the hands of eight spirited heroines—each standing at the crossroads of love and destiny, and each inspired by a true patriot. As it journeys from one heart to the next, these stories unfold with sweet romance, unwavering hope, and a deep love of country, proving that even in uncertain times, love is always worth the risk. Start reading the Petticoats & Patriots series today!
As whispers of revolution turn swell into a roar for freedom, Lucy Carlson is no longer content to simply watch from behind the counter of her father’s jewelry shop. When a mysterious woman—none other than Martha Washington—leaves behind a locket, Lucy discovers the piece is more than a pretty keepsake. The necklace is a secret vessel for the revolution that carries the promise of love.
Drawn into a dangerous spy ring, Lucy begins crafting coded messages concealed within the locket’s clever design, living a secret double life and risking everything she holds dear in a time of sacrifice and war.
Continental soldier Branch Barton is a man defined by duty. Tasked with rooting out traitors, he moves through the shadowed world of deception and divided loyalties. He’s trained to trust no one, yet he finds himself drawn into a slow-burning connection with the jeweler’s spirited daughter.
But when Lucy begins to suspect Branch may be a Redcoat in disguise, their fragile bond is tested by mistaken identity, growing mistrust, and the threat of betrayal.
In a war where even allies can become enemies, Lucy and Branch must navigate a world of hidden truths and guarded hearts. With the fate of the colonies—and their hearts—hanging in the balance as Lucy delivers a message in enemy territory, will they find the courage to trust each other and choose love?
Courage built a nation. Love made it worth fighting for.
Throughout 250 years of American history, a well-loved locket finds its way into the hands of eight spirited heroines—each standing at the crossroads of love and destiny, and each inspired by a true patriot. As it journeys from one heart to the next, these stories unfold with sweet romance, unwavering hope, and a deep love of country, proving that even in uncertain times, love is always worth the risk. Start reading the Petticoats & Patriots series today!
221 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2026
About the author
Shanna Hatfield
160 books1,344 followersA hopeless romantic with a bit of sarcasm thrown in for good measure, Shanna Hatfield is a best-selling author of clean romantic fiction written with a healthy dose of humor.
In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her blog http://shannahatfield.com
or find out news at her facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/shanna.hatfield
In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her blog http://shannahatfield.com
or find out news at her facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/shanna.hatfield
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 12, 2026
I love learning about history and this story was just the thing to read during our country’s 250th anniversary!
Taken from real accounts and background information, the author has crafted an awe inspiring tale of patriotism in 1776.
Lucy is a goldsmith working in her father’s shop and meets Branch who is a friend of Martha Washington. Lucy is a Patriot and is unsure of where Branch stands in the Patriotic cause. I liked the atmospheric writing that put me right in the story. Ms. Hatfield portrayed the characters with a sure faith that showed in their actions.
The author depicted the spies with interesting information about spy craft of the era, including the dangers.
Although the romance was slow, it was very well drawn. The way the locket, other pieces of jewelry and other items that might be in a goldsmith shop were used was very interesting.
This was a great start to a truly American story. I look forward to the others in the series.
*I purchased a copy of this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are mine alone.*
Taken from real accounts and background information, the author has crafted an awe inspiring tale of patriotism in 1776.
Lucy is a goldsmith working in her father’s shop and meets Branch who is a friend of Martha Washington. Lucy is a Patriot and is unsure of where Branch stands in the Patriotic cause. I liked the atmospheric writing that put me right in the story. Ms. Hatfield portrayed the characters with a sure faith that showed in their actions.
The author depicted the spies with interesting information about spy craft of the era, including the dangers.
Although the romance was slow, it was very well drawn. The way the locket, other pieces of jewelry and other items that might be in a goldsmith shop were used was very interesting.
This was a great start to a truly American story. I look forward to the others in the series.
*I purchased a copy of this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are mine alone.*
June 17, 2026
This is story number one in a seven installment series honoring our 250th year of freedom beginning with this adventure about the beginnings of the Revolution. Silver Smith and jeweler Lucy Carlson is inadvertently drawn into a spy ring in Philadelphia at the birth of the American Revolution. She has no idea if her parents are on the British side or the American side and a mysterious stranger, Branch Barton, hovers around her. She is simultaneously attracted to him and yet she fears him because he comes and goes like a ghost. Lucy fashions a locket, a piece of jewelry, that will thread its way through the entire seven book series. Of all people to befriend her is Martha Washington who trusts Lucy with delivering information on the British military movements. The author treats us to heart stopping suspense as Lucy passes dangerous information to the patriots. A very unlikely romance grows between Lucy and Branch. The author has fashioned a thrilling page turning romantic adventure for us. What a way to start this memorable series!
June 28, 2026
A LIFE LIVED TOGETHER FOR LIBERTY AND LOVE
“Courage built a nation. Love made it worth fighting for.”
“Throughout 250 years of American history, a well-loved locket finds its way into the hands of eight spirited heroines—each standing at the crossroads of love and destiny, and each inspired by a true patriot. As it journeys from one heart to the next, these stories unfold with sweet romance, unwavering hope, and a deep love of country, proving that even in uncertain times, love is always worth the risk. Start reading the Petticoats & Patriots series today!"
The story takes place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1776. It starts around the time the Declaration of Independence begins and is read. It will be a time in our history when Patriots are standing for a cause to remove the shackles of England and gain their freedom and independence.
Lucy Carlson works with her father, Ward Carlson, in his goldsmith shop on High Street in Philadelphia. She has noticed several men hanging out, watching the shop, and found it alarming. When a fine-dressed lady is near the shop, Lucy invites her in, and it begins a journey of aiding the cause—the woman, Martha ‘Patsy’ Washington. After a trip to drop off a ring, she will choose to help the Patriots, writing and passing off messages in jewelry and items purchased in the shop. One of the men she will meet is Burwell ‘Branch’ Barton.
“Be brave and keep true. Remember, trust no one.” –Martha Washington
I found the entire story fascinating, informative, and added a sweet, clean, historical-based love story. It will have a colorful cast of characters, harrowing moments, acts of bravery, and discovery. The Carlson goldsmith shop will be a place of information and exchange. The Carlson family has their own surprises and adds so much to the story. Along with secret missions, covert actions, and going above and beyond for the cause. The more time Branch and Lucy spend together, the closer they become. The history that the author added at the end of the book, along with a recipe talked about in the story, was a nice addition.
NOTE: I read this book using my paid subscription to Kindle Unlimited.
“Courage built a nation. Love made it worth fighting for.”
“Throughout 250 years of American history, a well-loved locket finds its way into the hands of eight spirited heroines—each standing at the crossroads of love and destiny, and each inspired by a true patriot. As it journeys from one heart to the next, these stories unfold with sweet romance, unwavering hope, and a deep love of country, proving that even in uncertain times, love is always worth the risk. Start reading the Petticoats & Patriots series today!"
The story takes place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1776. It starts around the time the Declaration of Independence begins and is read. It will be a time in our history when Patriots are standing for a cause to remove the shackles of England and gain their freedom and independence.
Lucy Carlson works with her father, Ward Carlson, in his goldsmith shop on High Street in Philadelphia. She has noticed several men hanging out, watching the shop, and found it alarming. When a fine-dressed lady is near the shop, Lucy invites her in, and it begins a journey of aiding the cause—the woman, Martha ‘Patsy’ Washington. After a trip to drop off a ring, she will choose to help the Patriots, writing and passing off messages in jewelry and items purchased in the shop. One of the men she will meet is Burwell ‘Branch’ Barton.
“Be brave and keep true. Remember, trust no one.” –Martha Washington
I found the entire story fascinating, informative, and added a sweet, clean, historical-based love story. It will have a colorful cast of characters, harrowing moments, acts of bravery, and discovery. The Carlson goldsmith shop will be a place of information and exchange. The Carlson family has their own surprises and adds so much to the story. Along with secret missions, covert actions, and going above and beyond for the cause. The more time Branch and Lucy spend together, the closer they become. The history that the author added at the end of the book, along with a recipe talked about in the story, was a nice addition.
NOTE: I read this book using my paid subscription to Kindle Unlimited.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this sweet read set at the beginning of the American Revolution. I so appreciate the time Shanna Hatfield takes to add lots of historical details that gives the story such a richness - I always learn so much.
Lucy is 18 years old and living in Philadelphia as the Declaration of Independence is first read. It is a turning point in history for America and she is determined to support the Patriot cause. She never dreams of meeting Martha Washington but a random encounter changes her life forever when Martha leaves behind a locket at Lucy's family's jewelry shop. Upon investigation she discovers it has a secret compartment and is being used to smuggle messages to other patriots. Lucy is offered the opportunity to join the cause and become a spy and willingly agrees. She doesn't know what to think of Branch, the handsome young man who starts hanging around the store and who soon becomes friends of the family. He seems quite attractive but it is unclear whose side he is on or what he does for work. As things heat up in town (both temperature and politics) can Lucy and Branch grow closer or will events conspire to keep them apart?
This story was about love and courage. I loved the idea of a female spy being part of the Patriot movement and having an impact. The romance throughout is sweet and lovely. The characters were interesting and entertaining, especially Lucy's younger brother Theo. A wonderful book to lose yourself in for a few hours.
Lucy is 18 years old and living in Philadelphia as the Declaration of Independence is first read. It is a turning point in history for America and she is determined to support the Patriot cause. She never dreams of meeting Martha Washington but a random encounter changes her life forever when Martha leaves behind a locket at Lucy's family's jewelry shop. Upon investigation she discovers it has a secret compartment and is being used to smuggle messages to other patriots. Lucy is offered the opportunity to join the cause and become a spy and willingly agrees. She doesn't know what to think of Branch, the handsome young man who starts hanging around the store and who soon becomes friends of the family. He seems quite attractive but it is unclear whose side he is on or what he does for work. As things heat up in town (both temperature and politics) can Lucy and Branch grow closer or will events conspire to keep them apart?
This story was about love and courage. I loved the idea of a female spy being part of the Patriot movement and having an impact. The romance throughout is sweet and lovely. The characters were interesting and entertaining, especially Lucy's younger brother Theo. A wonderful book to lose yourself in for a few hours.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Eighteen-year-old Lucy Carlson works in her father's goldsmith shop on High Street in the heart of Philadelphia. After a woman purchases a ring and requests it be delivered to her home that evening, Lucy realizes she has left her gloves. Picking them up, she discovers a locket inside one of them with a hidden compartment containing a coded message.
The woman, Martha Washington herself, sends Branch Barton, a Continental Army soldier who works for her husband, to the shop to test Lucy's loyalty before asking if she would be willing to help pass along conversations she overhears. Branch is drawn to Lucy and feels the need to watch out for her safety.
For Liberty And Love by Shanna Hatfield is the first book in Petticoats & Patriots, a multi-author collection of patriotic stories. This historical romance was easy to read, and I did not want to see it end. I am looking forward to reading the last book in the series, also by this author, about Lucy and Branch's descendant.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book. I volunteered to read it and write a review.
The woman, Martha Washington herself, sends Branch Barton, a Continental Army soldier who works for her husband, to the shop to test Lucy's loyalty before asking if she would be willing to help pass along conversations she overhears. Branch is drawn to Lucy and feels the need to watch out for her safety.
For Liberty And Love by Shanna Hatfield is the first book in Petticoats & Patriots, a multi-author collection of patriotic stories. This historical romance was easy to read, and I did not want to see it end. I am looking forward to reading the last book in the series, also by this author, about Lucy and Branch's descendant.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book. I volunteered to read it and write a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a wonderful story of finding love in the midst of secrecy and danger. 1776 Philadelphia was a time of drastic change leading to the American Revolution. Lucy learns by accident about being a spy and willingly steps into the danger to help the patriots. Not knowing who to trust, she believes her father to be a loyalist, and when she meets Branch she is sure that he is a British spy. As they spend more time together, she is drawn to him and he secretly does everything he can to protect her. When surprising secrets come to light, they work together to help the continental army and their love grows. I love that Shanna is so thorough in her research and she brings this time period to life in a very believable way. Learning that so many ordinary people were involved in spying is so interesting. I look forward to the rest of the books in this series.
I received a copy of this book from the author as an ARC, but a positive review was not required.
I received a copy of this book from the author as an ARC, but a positive review was not required.
Review of advance copy received from Author
For Liberty and Love kicks off the multi-author Petticoats and Patriots series with an engaging story that transports us back to 1776 Philadelphia. The intriguing, well-written storyline, with its twists and revelations, along with captivating characters piqued my interest from the start and kept me diligently turning pages. Branch and Lucy are the perfect couple with a common bond--a passion for patriotism. I love their teasing banter. I especially enjoyed meeting brave young Theo, Lucy's eight-year-old brother! The author expertly incorporates historical places, people, and events into the fictional story, evidencing extensive research. The authentically sketched setting captures the essence of the Revolutionary War era. I enjoyed this quick, entertaining read and highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 17, 2026
Lucy Carlson and Branch Barton are brought together by the turmoil and uncertainty of the American Revolution. Shanna Hatfield does a wonderful job developing their backgrounds and showing how their relationship grows amid the challenges of a nation fighting for independence.
Both Lucy and Branch are tested by the dangers and sacrifices of the era, yet they prove themselves to be determined patriots willing to risk everything for the cause of freedom. Their courage, loyalty, and growing affection for one another make them easy characters to care about and root for.
The historical setting is richly detailed, the storyline is engaging, and the characters are compelling. I found myself eager to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next. For Liberty and Love is a heartfelt blend of romance, history, and adventure that kept me captivated until the very end.
A wonderful read for fans of historical romance set during the Revolutionary War era
Both Lucy and Branch are tested by the dangers and sacrifices of the era, yet they prove themselves to be determined patriots willing to risk everything for the cause of freedom. Their courage, loyalty, and growing affection for one another make them easy characters to care about and root for.
The historical setting is richly detailed, the storyline is engaging, and the characters are compelling. I found myself eager to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next. For Liberty and Love is a heartfelt blend of romance, history, and adventure that kept me captivated until the very end.
A wonderful read for fans of historical romance set during the Revolutionary War era
June 16, 2026
Lucy is a gold craftsman in the year of American’s stand for independence – 1776. She is also a patriot, desiring to help the cause of Liberty. She meets handsome Branch and is immediately drawn to him, but she feels that he is a Loyalist and on the side of the British. Which side is he really on? Can she trust Branch?
Shanna Hatfield researches her historical novels for accuracy, which makes for a very interesting story. Her characters are well-developed and likeable. I highly recommend this book, and I look forward to the next one in the series.
quote: “Hold on to your faith and your love, Lucy, and trust God’s leading. If you do that, everything will work out just as it is intended to.”
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is entirely voluntary and unbiased.
Shanna Hatfield researches her historical novels for accuracy, which makes for a very interesting story. Her characters are well-developed and likeable. I highly recommend this book, and I look forward to the next one in the series.
quote: “Hold on to your faith and your love, Lucy, and trust God’s leading. If you do that, everything will work out just as it is intended to.”
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is entirely voluntary and unbiased.
June 26, 2026
I always know a book from Shanna Hatfield is going to be good and this book was right up there with some of her best work. Set during the American Revolution, Lucy longs to help in some tangible way to aid the colonists in their fight for freedom
Of. After an unexpected meeting with Martha Washington, she is enlisted to help smuggle messages to aid the Continental Army. Secrets are hard to keep, especially when she doesn’t know who to trust. I love the assistance she receives from her little brother. And she gets quite the shock from her parents when injured soldiers come to their door.
I really enjoyed the story. Don’t forget to read the author’s notes at the end which gives more history, even why she chose the names that she did. I always learn interesting things in her notes.
I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary and my own opinion.
Of. After an unexpected meeting with Martha Washington, she is enlisted to help smuggle messages to aid the Continental Army. Secrets are hard to keep, especially when she doesn’t know who to trust. I love the assistance she receives from her little brother. And she gets quite the shock from her parents when injured soldiers come to their door.
I really enjoyed the story. Don’t forget to read the author’s notes at the end which gives more history, even why she chose the names that she did. I always learn interesting things in her notes.
I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary and my own opinion.
June 29, 2026
For Liberty and Love is a story for just this time of remembrance of US history. By Shanna Hatfield, this wonderful historical fiction has common everyday people, young and older, doing their part for liberty and freedom to rule themselves. Beginning in Philadelphia with the reading of the Declaration of Independence, this story focuses on Lucy Carlson and her family along with Branch Barton. A story of duty, facing danger bravely, doing your best, keeping your word, kindness and love show in these characters’ lives. A story also of surprises where confidences must be kept as well as God is able in times of need. The locket and its significance was a special touch. I loved this story and these characters, especially Theo. Finding out he has his own book; the paperback copy is now on order for our family. For Liberty and Love is a great first in the Petticoats & Patriots Series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The cost of liberty
I like historical settings and this one is one of the best; Philadelphia right as the Declaration of Independence is first read - a time in our history where localities were tested, friends became enemies, and life was turned upside-down.
Branch and Lucy make a great couple; both are dedicated to the cause of freedom and liberty. Lucy is unsure of Branch’s loyalty but as she learns the secrets that surround her life and his, she learns to trust and love him. I found myself cheering for them as they found happiness in the midst of war and hardships.
I enjoyed this novel; it is definitely a novel I would re-visit. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
I like historical settings and this one is one of the best; Philadelphia right as the Declaration of Independence is first read - a time in our history where localities were tested, friends became enemies, and life was turned upside-down.
Branch and Lucy make a great couple; both are dedicated to the cause of freedom and liberty. Lucy is unsure of Branch’s loyalty but as she learns the secrets that surround her life and his, she learns to trust and love him. I found myself cheering for them as they found happiness in the midst of war and hardships.
I enjoyed this novel; it is definitely a novel I would re-visit. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t often get to read stories set in this era, but I loved it. Lucy is brave and patriotic, helping her father in their jewelry shop where she often overhears troubling things. A chance meeting with a woman named Patsy gives her the opportunity to pass valuable information to the Continental Army. Branch, fiercely loyal, poses as a Redcoat sympathizer to do the same. A master of disguise, he tests Lucy’s loyalty, and she passes with flying colors. When her life is threatened, Branch realizes he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her. Lucy discovers there’s far more to Branch than he reveals to everyone, and she’s falling for him. With war looming, it’s a terrible time for love—but they fall anyway. Can they find a way to be together amidst the chaos?
June 17, 2026
This is the story of Lucy and Branch as well as the time just after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This is a wonderful book. I loved the romance, the intrigue, and the picture Shanna Hatfield built of life during this time in Philadelphia in 1776. I loved the feisty sweet relationship between Lucy and Branch.
I know this is fiction, but this book was so well written that it gave me a lot to think about how our country was founded. The Declaration of Independence had just been read to the people in Philadelphia. Spy’s for the Loyalists and Rebels were everywhere. People didn’t know who to trust. Families were divided. People who wanted freedom had to be brave but careful. I have so much to be thankful for.
I know this is fiction, but this book was so well written that it gave me a lot to think about how our country was founded. The Declaration of Independence had just been read to the people in Philadelphia. Spy’s for the Loyalists and Rebels were everywhere. People didn’t know who to trust. Families were divided. People who wanted freedom had to be brave but careful. I have so much to be thankful for.
June 18, 2026
Lucy Carlson works for her father in his shop designing beautiful pieces of jewelry. A woman comes in a purchases a ring and asks that it be delivered to her home that evening. After she leaves, Lucy discovers that she forgot her gloves. When she picks it up, she realizes there is something in one of them. It's a locket. She decides to clean it and discovers a secret compartment with a message inside with some kind of code. After testing Lucy's integrity in a few ways, this woman reveals herself as Martha Washington and asks her to work as a spy for the Continental Army. Lucy has a patriotic heart and is willing to do whatever she can. This locket will have an important part in each book in this 8 book series.
July 23, 2026
This was a breathtaking blend of romance, courage, and history that completely captured my heart. Set in the uncertain days of the American Revolution, this story beautifully reminds us that even in the darkest moments, love has the power to shine with extraordinary strength.
Lucy Carlson is a heroine I couldn’t help but admire. Her quiet bravery, unwavering compassion, and determination to do what is right make her an unforgettable character. Branch Barton is the perfect match for her—a steadfast, honorable hero whose loyalty runs as deep as his growing affection. Their romance unfolds with tender longing, heartfelt trust, and just the right amount of slow-burning chemistry, making every shared glance and whispered conversation feel meaningful.
Lucy Carlson is a heroine I couldn’t help but admire. Her quiet bravery, unwavering compassion, and determination to do what is right make her an unforgettable character. Branch Barton is the perfect match for her—a steadfast, honorable hero whose loyalty runs as deep as his growing affection. Their romance unfolds with tender longing, heartfelt trust, and just the right amount of slow-burning chemistry, making every shared glance and whispered conversation feel meaningful.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wonderful beginning of the Petticoats & Patriots series this one by Shanna Hatfield.
I enjoyed this book of patriotism, courage and love.
Lucy works at her father’s goldsmith shop, she’s as talented as many others in the guild but not allowed to join because she’s a woman.
Her chance meeting of Martha Washington begins her adventure into helping with the opportunity for Liberty.
Branch is a member of Washington’s troops and currently tasked with watching out for Mrs. Washington.
This is a sweet story of courage and love.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
I enjoyed this book of patriotism, courage and love.
Lucy works at her father’s goldsmith shop, she’s as talented as many others in the guild but not allowed to join because she’s a woman.
Her chance meeting of Martha Washington begins her adventure into helping with the opportunity for Liberty.
Branch is a member of Washington’s troops and currently tasked with watching out for Mrs. Washington.
This is a sweet story of courage and love.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
June 16, 2026
What a wonderful way to celebrate our country’s 250th birthday! I really loved how this story was full of intrigue. This was a time when there were British soldiers who would walk among the colonists, both sides wanting information about the other’s plans. You didn’t always know who you could trust. In this wonderful story, you see a family who have settled in America and set up shop as jewelers. Many from both sides of this conflict would come into the shop. How does this shop and this family support their choice in which side to fight for? It’s a surprise how this plays out and the subsequent romance that follows. Ten stars!
June 16, 2026
Lucy and Branch, I loved them and I want more.
There were so many little snippets of history, so many details that taught me about what it might be like to live in that time. And it all feels so believable, like I could imagine just waltzing on into that town and meeting those people as they go about their day.
I loved the little intrigues and mysteries, like the locket that kept reappearing. And such daring and bravery that normal people showed when they had the opportunity, they understood the task and what the potential consequences could be and they just did it to serve their country.
There were so many little snippets of history, so many details that taught me about what it might be like to live in that time. And it all feels so believable, like I could imagine just waltzing on into that town and meeting those people as they go about their day.
I loved the little intrigues and mysteries, like the locket that kept reappearing. And such daring and bravery that normal people showed when they had the opportunity, they understood the task and what the potential consequences could be and they just did it to serve their country.
June 17, 2026
For Liberty and Love by Shanna Hatfield ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great start to kick off a new multi author series called Petticoats and Patriots.
Let's head back to 1776 just before the revolutionary war. We meet Lucy who becomes an American spy after finding a locket that contains secret messages. Branch a new employee working at Lucy's father's jewelry store. Lucy is determined that he is a British spy. How can they have a relationship working for the enemies? Plot twist you'll have to read the book to find out the twist.
Get your copy today as it's release day. You'll be glad you did, you don't want to miss this one.
Great start to kick off a new multi author series called Petticoats and Patriots.
Let's head back to 1776 just before the revolutionary war. We meet Lucy who becomes an American spy after finding a locket that contains secret messages. Branch a new employee working at Lucy's father's jewelry store. Lucy is determined that he is a British spy. How can they have a relationship working for the enemies? Plot twist you'll have to read the book to find out the twist.
Get your copy today as it's release day. You'll be glad you did, you don't want to miss this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wonderful story! Shanna Hatfield is a masterful writer and will have you stepping back in time. You know the history but this will take you back to follow the story of one family and how they helped with the Revolution. It has it all, mystery, suspicion, romance, and the cutest little brother. You will feel the heat and humidity and smell the smells. This is a fairly short read and I couldn’t stop until the end. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series! This is a clean, inspirational romance.
June 20, 2026
What a Patriotic Book
This book is an excellent beginning to the Patriotic series with books by some of my favorite authors. I cannot think of a better way to start celebrating America's 250th birthday than by reading a book by Shanna Hatfield dealing with the time around the Revolutionary War. The book is about patriotism, bravery, faith, and love. It is a clean and sweet love story that centers around true patriotism, the importance of family and commitment to the cause of birthing a nation. I highly recommend it and I cannot wait to read book two!
This book is an excellent beginning to the Patriotic series with books by some of my favorite authors. I cannot think of a better way to start celebrating America's 250th birthday than by reading a book by Shanna Hatfield dealing with the time around the Revolutionary War. The book is about patriotism, bravery, faith, and love. It is a clean and sweet love story that centers around true patriotism, the importance of family and commitment to the cause of birthing a nation. I highly recommend it and I cannot wait to read book two!
July 10, 2026
I enjoyed reading this story especially as we celebrate our nation's 250th birthday. I found the story interesting as I admired Lucy's strength and bravery as she became a spy for the Patriots. I loved the role of the locket in the story and the significance it had at the end of the story. I also enjoyed the romance brewing between Lucy and Branch. I now want to read the rest of the books in this series! I received an advance copy of this book, and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
September 6, 2026
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This is a delightful start to a wonderful series. A series written by different authors. It follows a locket through the years. This story takes place at the beginning of the Revolutionary War.
The characters are delightful. The intrigue of spying on the enemy and not knowing who is on whose side is one that just pulls you into it.
I adorned this story and was saddened to see it end. I highly recommend this story to anyone.
This is a delightful start to a wonderful series. A series written by different authors. It follows a locket through the years. This story takes place at the beginning of the Revolutionary War.
The characters are delightful. The intrigue of spying on the enemy and not knowing who is on whose side is one that just pulls you into it.
I adorned this story and was saddened to see it end. I highly recommend this story to anyone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a delightful read! The author took creative license with characters in history, but it is done in such a wonderful way! The people and the time just after the reading of the Declaration of Independence were brought to life for me in this story of love, spies, and intrigue. I loved all of the interactions between Branch and Lucy, and Theo added so much to the story. This is a well-written historical romance that left me looking forward to the rest of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The sparks started from the first glance between Lucy and Branch. The multiple people were all perfect and played well off each other. It had exciting action and suspense. One of the things I really enjoyed besides the obvious was the actual history. I always enjoy historical fiction, because it helps you play out what actually happened and it stays with me. History should be remembered. Book gifted to me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
this is a wonderful story. she works with jewelry with her day. women cannot be a jeweler in that time period he acts like he does not have a side in the war that is going on. could not stop reading the book to see what was going on. if you like mystery and how spies got information you will want to read the story. reverting story to the end i received a copy of the book but this is an honest review
June 16, 2026
An amazing story set in our revolutionary era. A time of division in our country between staying under England’s rule or forging ahead to govern ourselves. Lucy decides to follow the path of the Continental army and is soon caught up in danger and intrigue and a budding romance. There are many surprising twists in turns in this story that captivates you and draws you into this story.
R. Fody
6-16-26
R. Fody
6-16-26
June 17, 2026
Love against all odds
I absolutely loved everything about this book. As a history teacher, of course I love hostorical fiction about history. It just so happens American Revolution is my favorite time in US History. The way historical content was woven in to every aspect was seamless with the intrigue and budding relationship of Lucy Ward and Brach Barton. Spies, Loyalty and Love what more can you ask for. I highly recommend it! Such a great read.
I absolutely loved everything about this book. As a history teacher, of course I love hostorical fiction about history. It just so happens American Revolution is my favorite time in US History. The way historical content was woven in to every aspect was seamless with the intrigue and budding relationship of Lucy Ward and Brach Barton. Spies, Loyalty and Love what more can you ask for. I highly recommend it! Such a great read.
June 18, 2026
I truly enjoyed this book. It is a nice change from the books the author normally writes. She pulled me into the story right from the beginning and I had a hard time putting the book down. I wanted to know what happened, but also didn’t want the story to end. I love the characters of Branch and Lucy. She is so brave and spunky. Her little brother, Theo, is quite a character and so fun to read about. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.
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