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Dear Kate
From the author of From the Flames comes a gripping new novel of mystery, betrayal, and courage.
At a time when thousands are fleeing tyranny to find a home in the New World, seventeen-year-old Kate Elyot witnesses a tragic accident that orphans a little girl named Emily. Suddenly the sole guardian of a child she's never met, Kate's only guide to the girl's surviving family is a signet ring and a letter sewn into Emily's dress addressed "To Kate." Unsure of whether she has walked into a fateful calling or a fatal coincidence, Kate is determine to get Emily home but is unprepared for the journey awaiting her.
Captain Anthony Scot will not rest until his enemy Simon Cephas is punished for a crime long forgotten. The signet ring that Emily carries is the evidence Scot needs to convict his rival. He is willing to obtain the ring at any cost in order to destroy Cephas.
Can Kate fight to free Emily from those who would use her to destroy her Puritan family? Will her courage sustain her as she is brought face to face with her worst fears, deepest regrets, and a God she cannot bring herself to trust?
At a time when thousands are fleeing tyranny to find a home in the New World, seventeen-year-old Kate Elyot witnesses a tragic accident that orphans a little girl named Emily. Suddenly the sole guardian of a child she's never met, Kate's only guide to the girl's surviving family is a signet ring and a letter sewn into Emily's dress addressed "To Kate." Unsure of whether she has walked into a fateful calling or a fatal coincidence, Kate is determine to get Emily home but is unprepared for the journey awaiting her.
Captain Anthony Scot will not rest until his enemy Simon Cephas is punished for a crime long forgotten. The signet ring that Emily carries is the evidence Scot needs to convict his rival. He is willing to obtain the ring at any cost in order to destroy Cephas.
Can Kate fight to free Emily from those who would use her to destroy her Puritan family? Will her courage sustain her as she is brought face to face with her worst fears, deepest regrets, and a God she cannot bring herself to trust?
282 pages, Paperback
First published December 4, 2014
96 people are currently reading
717 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Duggan
12 books26 followersHannah Duggan is an author, worship leader, dance instructor, and Bible teacher. Her passion for writing stems from her desire to spread the gospel through gripping stories of heroes and heroines throughout history. She is an active part of her parents’ ministry at Calvary Chapel in Hamakua on the Big Island of Hawaii.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 31, 2017
Age Appropriate For: 10 and up (violence, very mild romance)
Best for Ages: 10-20
This book starts out with a bang, and there is an adventure at every turn. Where were the books like this when I was in my early teens? This is the kind I would have loved. So much adventure, never a dull moment, and only a tiny hint of romance at the end.
There were only a couple minor complaints I have about this book. One was the vagueness of this historical setting at first. It wasn’t until the end of the book that the whole scope of what was happening historically came into the light. The other thing, I felt that some of the secrets were kept a secret a little too long. I had guessed some of them or became frustrated that the reader wasn’t enlightened in a timely manner.
Kate was a perfect main character for the story. While strong, she has doubts and fears that she has to overcome. She isn’t a superhero; she doesn’t have the instincts of Nancy Drew; she feels like a normal girl thrown into some pretty extraordinary circumstances.
The mystery and intrigue in this story kept me guessing and on my toes. There were a couple of times I was a bit confused, but I think that is because I read this late into a couple of nights when I should have been asleep. Cephas, the ring, and all that went with it were pretty fascinating.
The faith element was solid. It didn’t overwhelm the story or feel neglected. Remove it, and the story probably would fall apart which, in my opinion, means the author did something right.
The villains were very bad people, violent at times, but not so horrible as to give nightmares.
I recommend this to those who like books filled with mystery and adventure, those who like historical fiction, and those who like Christian fiction.
Best for Ages: 10-20
This book starts out with a bang, and there is an adventure at every turn. Where were the books like this when I was in my early teens? This is the kind I would have loved. So much adventure, never a dull moment, and only a tiny hint of romance at the end.
There were only a couple minor complaints I have about this book. One was the vagueness of this historical setting at first. It wasn’t until the end of the book that the whole scope of what was happening historically came into the light. The other thing, I felt that some of the secrets were kept a secret a little too long. I had guessed some of them or became frustrated that the reader wasn’t enlightened in a timely manner.
Kate was a perfect main character for the story. While strong, she has doubts and fears that she has to overcome. She isn’t a superhero; she doesn’t have the instincts of Nancy Drew; she feels like a normal girl thrown into some pretty extraordinary circumstances.
The mystery and intrigue in this story kept me guessing and on my toes. There were a couple of times I was a bit confused, but I think that is because I read this late into a couple of nights when I should have been asleep. Cephas, the ring, and all that went with it were pretty fascinating.
The faith element was solid. It didn’t overwhelm the story or feel neglected. Remove it, and the story probably would fall apart which, in my opinion, means the author did something right.
The villains were very bad people, violent at times, but not so horrible as to give nightmares.
I recommend this to those who like books filled with mystery and adventure, those who like historical fiction, and those who like Christian fiction.
January 20, 2025
A fantastic suspenseful, fast paced action, christian historical fiction. Set in 1600 England about a teen girl and tragic past. Each event leads to another page turning mystery. It starts from a carriage accident, to mysterious notes, captures, secrets, imprisonment, Puritan hangings, more secrets, betrayals, protection, abduction, and the love of a little girl.
It was such a sweet and beautifully sad story. Full of mystery and adventure. The characters were also very deep and developed. There were different things about each character that made you want to know more, and each one was unique and held their own secrets. And there is a super sweet innocent romance later on in the book!
Click below to read more!
https://www.theinkandquillsociety.com...
Reviewed by Aubrey Claire
It was such a sweet and beautifully sad story. Full of mystery and adventure. The characters were also very deep and developed. There were different things about each character that made you want to know more, and each one was unique and held their own secrets. And there is a super sweet innocent romance later on in the book!
Click below to read more!
https://www.theinkandquillsociety.com...
Reviewed by Aubrey Claire
November 10, 2024
This is probably one of my new favorites books! I laughed, I cried and I think if a book makes you cry it was well worth it and well written! It was such a sweet story full of mystery and adventure. Seriously loved this book so much! A page turner for sure!
October 4, 2016
{3.5 stars}
I've always read the first sentence/pharagraph of a story before starting to see if I would enjoy it. Did this and just kept on reading (although I hadn't planned to read it just then :)) The story drew me in especially because I wanted to figure out what in the world was going on! Overall the story fascinated me and kept me interested.
That being said, there were several scenes (particularly at the end) that really threw me for a loop. I couldn't figure out if Katy was dreaming, if it was something from the past, or part of the story. Turned out it was part of the story which kinda made me grimace. It was way too coincidental.
I forgot at times that it was set in the 1600s. I wish there had been more indication of this time frame. The speech sounded a little too modern at times. It would have helped if clothing had been described or something.
But I absolutely loved Jackson!! He was a great character. I won't even get started on James. There were many verse passages and spiritual aspects to this story that really effected me
There was nothing about that book that was inappropriate and I appreciated that. It was a book I enjoyed, despite some of the misgivings I mentioned above.
Favorite quotes:
“I’ve been in a prison most of my life, too afraid to let myself out, thinking my fear and my bitterness were all that kept me safe. Now, here I am, trapped in the dark day and night, but I’m free.”
“But without that tossing and rolling, we’d never cry out. If we weren’t about to wreck, we’d never start searching for God.”
I've always read the first sentence/pharagraph of a story before starting to see if I would enjoy it. Did this and just kept on reading (although I hadn't planned to read it just then :)) The story drew me in especially because I wanted to figure out what in the world was going on! Overall the story fascinated me and kept me interested.
That being said, there were several scenes (particularly at the end) that really threw me for a loop. I couldn't figure out if Katy was dreaming, if it was something from the past, or part of the story. Turned out it was part of the story which kinda made me grimace. It was way too coincidental.
I forgot at times that it was set in the 1600s. I wish there had been more indication of this time frame. The speech sounded a little too modern at times. It would have helped if clothing had been described or something.
But I absolutely loved Jackson!! He was a great character. I won't even get started on James. There were many verse passages and spiritual aspects to this story that really effected me
There was nothing about that book that was inappropriate and I appreciated that. It was a book I enjoyed, despite some of the misgivings I mentioned above.
Favorite quotes:
“I’ve been in a prison most of my life, too afraid to let myself out, thinking my fear and my bitterness were all that kept me safe. Now, here I am, trapped in the dark day and night, but I’m free.”
“But without that tossing and rolling, we’d never cry out. If we weren’t about to wreck, we’d never start searching for God.”
January 10, 2023
VERY suspenseful historical fiction, with heartfelt moments and feelings. A couple downsides:
1) The setting takes a very long while to unfold.
2) Heavy on the action and climactic scenes, but the plots and theories are hard to follow.
3) Multiple confusing dialogues that are planted for suspense, but later on you’ve long-forgotten those conversations.
It also needed some editing, but overall, this was a great read and I enjoyed it a lot! (and it is definitely a hard book to sum up in a few sentences (; )
1) The setting takes a very long while to unfold.
2) Heavy on the action and climactic scenes, but the plots and theories are hard to follow.
3) Multiple confusing dialogues that are planted for suspense, but later on you’ve long-forgotten those conversations.
It also needed some editing, but overall, this was a great read and I enjoyed it a lot! (and it is definitely a hard book to sum up in a few sentences (; )
February 15, 2016
I actually used Audible for this one...compliments of Felisha Caldeira. This book is absolutely amazing! The theme of redemption and overcoming fear is strong and the adventure keeps you at the edge of your seat! Felisha did a wonderful job narrating it too!! She had just the right amount of drama to her voice!
November 22, 2017
A History Unknown to Me
Although I knew, or thought I knew, much about the beginning of both the break from Catholicism and the religious roots of our great country, this inspirational work of fiction had illuminated some dark and cobwebby areas I'm ashamed to say I knew little about. I enjoyed both the story line and the subtle weaving of faith and redemption from the beginning to the end.
Although I knew, or thought I knew, much about the beginning of both the break from Catholicism and the religious roots of our great country, this inspirational work of fiction had illuminated some dark and cobwebby areas I'm ashamed to say I knew little about. I enjoyed both the story line and the subtle weaving of faith and redemption from the beginning to the end.
July 23, 2018
Great Book!
My 12 year old granddaughter told me about this book. Even though it is meant for tweens or young adults the book is a must read for any age. The characters are real and engaging. They endure much during the actions in the book. The history is accurate and educational as well as being enjoyable with the interwoven fiction story. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and this book is exceptional.
My 12 year old granddaughter told me about this book. Even though it is meant for tweens or young adults the book is a must read for any age. The characters are real and engaging. They endure much during the actions in the book. The history is accurate and educational as well as being enjoyable with the interwoven fiction story. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and this book is exceptional.
September 13, 2020
I couldn't put this down. Kate is witness with her cousin, James, to a terrible coach accident. After saving Emily, a young girl in the coach, life becomes very complicated. Kate, James & Emily find themselves pursued by unknown enemies. Who is enemy and who is friend? A story of the early Puritans in England.
September 7, 2018
Poorly edited. Decent storyline but with the errors in grammar and structure it was hard to read.
October 2, 2020
Badly in need of editing. I love historical fiction, but the only reason I finished reading it was that I hate to give up on a book. I do not recommend this book.
March 4, 2023
i swear this is one of my very favorites!
November 14, 2016
Loved it.
August 26, 2016
The book begins with Kate hanging by her fingers on a cliff face that is on the verge of collapsing, and her cousin James is trying to reach her. A terrified little girl is on the ledge below, thrown from a carriage that went over the cliff just moments before. The action continues from there, for someone wants the girl dead, and they will stop at nothing to capture Kate and find a key that she supposedly has been given. As the story unfolds, we discover that Kate and the girl, Emily, are pawns in a deadly plan to destroy the Puritans and keep them from leaving England. The plot is exciting and fast paced, and Kate is constantly in danger. She doesn't know who to trust. Even the handsome young man, Jack, who rescues her from his father's ship, seems to have more than one agenda, and she doesn't know if he really cares for her or if he is just using her.
I enjoyed this historical fiction. It gave me a greater appreciation for those who came to America seeking freedom. They were so courageous in the face of tremendous opposition.
I enjoyed this historical fiction. It gave me a greater appreciation for those who came to America seeking freedom. They were so courageous in the face of tremendous opposition.
January 30, 2016
Kept me on the edge of my seat. Suspense, adventure, mystery and mayhem...Hannah Duggan's book, Dear Kate, has it all. A letter misdirected and Kate takes responsibility for an orphaned child. Can Kate and her cousin keep Emily from those chasing her and get her safely to her guardian. Twists and turns, captivating characters and lots of action will keep the reader's interest. Courage and faith in God are strong themes throughout the book. The audiobook was well done, with the narrator, Felisha Caldeira, giving good voice to each character. A book not to be missed.
I was gifted this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I was gifted this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2016
We loved this book--it's our second time through. The turn of phrase is engaging and not cliche. The plot is interesting and full of mystery. Every chapter answers one question and leaves you with 5 more so that you just don't want to put it down. My daughters loved it! We really enjoy quality historical fiction. The characters are all different and well developed. It lead to lots of discussion about the puritans and the cost of being a follower of Jesus. I so hope there will be more like this from Hannah Dugan. She truly is a gifted author!
October 1, 2015
An exciting and unusual read. I had trouble putting it down ...Thoroughly enjoyed it.
I enjoyed reading this book. An unusual story of historical fiction...England, pirates, orphaned children fighting for their lives. Intriguing. Loved it. For anyone who loves a good, clean adventure.
I enjoyed reading this book. An unusual story of historical fiction...England, pirates, orphaned children fighting for their lives. Intriguing. Loved it. For anyone who loves a good, clean adventure.
November 8, 2015
***I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.***
Even though I hadn’t read historical fiction in years, I really enjoyed reading this book with its thrilling, fast-paced story.
July 15, 2015
Captivating!
I couldn't put this book down. Typically, I can see where the story is heading, but in this book there were surprises at every turn. A truly wonderful read. I highly recommend it.
I couldn't put this book down. Typically, I can see where the story is heading, but in this book there were surprises at every turn. A truly wonderful read. I highly recommend it.
August 25, 2015
Dear Kate by Hannah Duggan
Excellent ebook and I would recommend this ebook to one and all. I look forward to reading more from this author. I have given this ebook five stars (5).
Excellent ebook and I would recommend this ebook to one and all. I look forward to reading more from this author. I have given this ebook five stars (5).
September 10, 2015
A very heartfelt story and uplifting to seek God and know he is always with you.
Dear Kate left you guessing and the story just left you not wanting to put the book down. I would recommend this to everyone. Read it believe God is with you always
Dear Kate left you guessing and the story just left you not wanting to put the book down. I would recommend this to everyone. Read it believe God is with you always
January 18, 2016
Good
Good read just a bit drawn out. Skipped a few pages in the beginning but got better later on in the story. I liked the Christian aspect of faith in God which reading about faith tends to help the reader in their own faith in
Good read just a bit drawn out. Skipped a few pages in the beginning but got better later on in the story. I liked the Christian aspect of faith in God which reading about faith tends to help the reader in their own faith in
July 15, 2016
I think I was more than twenty percent into the book before I could identify most of the setting. This author's style did not appeal to me. there were way too many unanswered questions tat lent to the mystery, but also kept the revealed facts from making sense. Lots of typos and missing words, too.
July 2, 2015
confusing at times, but set in a very interesting period of history. I enjoyed the fast pace of the novel.
July 2, 2015
I didn't want to put the book down. It drew me in from the beginning. What a powerful message of survival, hope and courage. Great read!
September 20, 2015
Too dry. It dragged on too much for my liking. I just had to stop reading.
April 12, 2017
Wow!
And I reserve that exclamation only for books that I'm REALLY impressed with.
Once again I picked out a book simply by its cover, having no idea what it would be about. This one totally surprised me. It looked sweet, gentle, like a simple story of a young lady who would live a quiet life with love on the horizon.
Boy was I wrong.
From the first chapter we're thrown into complex adventure that doesn't stop until the end. A carriage accident, mysterious notes, captures, imprisonment, sailors of ill repute, Puritan hangings, secrets, betrayals, protection, abduction, and the love of and for a little girl that defies logic.
Katie struggles to save a little girl on a ledge whose parents' carriage plummeted over a cliff. A strange message for her is sewn into the little girl's dress. From this moment no one is ever safe, danger is in nearly every step, and no one seems to know who to trust.
All Katie knows is these cryptic messages she keeps receiving from a stranger named Cepheus, propel her in directions and to destinations for unexplainable reasons. Getting lost and captured seem to be a way of life for her along this journey with Aimee, the little girl she is not related to and knows nothing about.
That's all I will say about this intriguing, suspenseful book, other than I recommend it to anyone!
And I reserve that exclamation only for books that I'm REALLY impressed with.
Once again I picked out a book simply by its cover, having no idea what it would be about. This one totally surprised me. It looked sweet, gentle, like a simple story of a young lady who would live a quiet life with love on the horizon.
Boy was I wrong.
From the first chapter we're thrown into complex adventure that doesn't stop until the end. A carriage accident, mysterious notes, captures, imprisonment, sailors of ill repute, Puritan hangings, secrets, betrayals, protection, abduction, and the love of and for a little girl that defies logic.
Katie struggles to save a little girl on a ledge whose parents' carriage plummeted over a cliff. A strange message for her is sewn into the little girl's dress. From this moment no one is ever safe, danger is in nearly every step, and no one seems to know who to trust.
All Katie knows is these cryptic messages she keeps receiving from a stranger named Cepheus, propel her in directions and to destinations for unexplainable reasons. Getting lost and captured seem to be a way of life for her along this journey with Aimee, the little girl she is not related to and knows nothing about.
That's all I will say about this intriguing, suspenseful book, other than I recommend it to anyone!
May 3, 2017
The story plunges you right deep into the thick of things. Thrusting you in took the unknown and rushing along with the heroine, trying to figure out what you are supposed to do. There were many complex scenes but that kept me involved and the pages turning. An overall exciting and adventurous book. There were many bittersweet moments that got my throat tight and my eyes tearing up. In all these the only description of the character was Emily and Jackson. Not so much on Kate herself. Overall, well recommended
September 18, 2017
Christian fiction of trusting God, God's guidance and the importance of forgiveness.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews