Too Deep for Words

Shenandoah Valley Saga #2

by Andrea Boeshaar

North meets South in the second installment of this popular Civil War series

Carrie Ann Collier has been a newlywed for nineteen blissful days--as blissful as life can be in the midst of war, that is. Soon that war will take a toll she never expected. When her new husband, Peyton, goes missing during battle, she refuses to believe he is dead, and must find a way to move forward with everyday life in the face of fear.

As Carrie struggles with how to welcome her estranged sister, Margaret, back into her life, another new arrival appears on her doorstep--her husband's best friend, and rebel officer, Eli. Wounded and bitter, Eli is nonetheless committed to keeping his promise to Peyton: take care of the Collier women, no matter what. But to Carrie, he's a painful reminder of her lost love.

Then unexpected news makes Carrie wonder if miracles do happen. If Carrie infiltrates the enemy once again, she might find out what really happened to the love of her life. Will Eli be able to keep his promise to keep her safe? Can they forgive each other if promises are broken?

As fans of Boeshaar's books have come to expect, Too Deep for Words is a meticulously researched novel. Readers are taken directly into the heart of the realities of the Civil War and reminded how, even in the darkest circumstances, faith in Christ offers hope.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Civil War, Romance, Fiction, Historical, War

304 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2017

About the author

Andrea Kuhn Boeshaar has been married for more than 30 years. She and her husband, Daniel, have three adult sons, daughters-in-law, and two precious grandchildren. Andrea's educational background includes the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, where she studied in English, and Alverno College where she studied in Professional Communications and Business Management.

Andrea has been writing stories and poems since she was a little girl; however, it wasn't until 1984 that she started submitting her work for publication. Eight years after that, she was convicted about writing for the Christian market. She read books in her genre (Inspirational Romance & Women's Fiction), studied the market, and worked hard to hone her craft.

Reviews

[Gary Reads (garysbooksnthings) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actually 2.5 stars

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

​Andrea Boeshaar has once again created a well-written and historically enticing novel with Too Deep for Words. This is a story of heartbreak, trials, and miracles as Carrie Ann Collier must deal her officer husband, Peyton, of only nineteen days disappearance. Boeshaar has methodically researched the deep history of the Civil War, bringing to life her intriguing characters and beautiful and enjoyable story. I would recommend this story to avid readers of historical fiction. Especially those that love Civil War history.

Series: Shenandoah Valley Saga
Genre: historical, romance, military history, Civil War, Christian
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Publication date: April 25, 2017
Number of pages: 320

Other books in the series:
1-A Thousand Shall Fall

​A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher, Kregel Publications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[J. S. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't like this book as much as the first.

The beginning was so slow, and dragged, and Carrie Ann didn't feel like Carrie Ann. I got the feeling the author started the book in the middle and was told to include some more details in the beginning.

I didn't like how Eli kept thinking about wedding Carrie Ann. Saying it once would have been enough. It felt so annoying to have him keep harping on it.

Margaret turned to the faith so fast and became a totally different person. It felt too abrupt.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Shenandoah Valley Saga, A Civil War Novel, and the second read that puts you on the battlefield, and then in the home of those affected by the ravages of war.
As the book opens we have a young couple, married only a few weeks, and he goes off to a meeting, they have only one night before he goes off again as an officer in the Northern Army. What happens and the regrets she feels is typical, but now she has to keep them forever as her Peyton is declared killed in battle, but for Carrie Ann her heart is telling her no.
As the book progresses Aunt Ruth persuades the family to move to their home in Washington D. C., and while there your heart will break as Carrie Ann, and her now returned sister Margaret, search the hospitals for the wounded.
We have Peyton’s friend Eli now in charge of her family’s finances, per her husband’s request, a rebel in charge? We also see that Eli really wants more than just financially take care of his friends widow, he wants her, guess we should remember that this is not something new.
When circumstance present themselves for Eli and Carrie to be in the same place at the same time, will Eli finally be able to win Carrie, or will she be unable to give her heart to anyone else. What about Margaret and her previous life as a servant, and what if she runs into someone she drugged?
With the ending of this book, and you will quickly be there, I still have questions, and hope that answers will be forthcoming, but know that each book can stand alone, but if you read one you will be hooked and fall in love with this series.
I received this book through Kregel Publishing Book Blogger Program, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Pegg · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Too Deep for Words" is a continuation of "A Thousand Shall Fall." The story picks up just days after the end of the first book, so I highly recommend reading these in order.

Carrie Ann Collier has matured in this second book. We see a change in her that reflects the effects of all she's been through. But the war isn't over and neither is the devastation. When her husband is deemed missing and presumed dead, she's not willing to believe it. When she has the chance to go to Richmond, the capital of the Confederacy, she jumps at it knowing that if her husband survived by some miracle, he'd likely be there at Libby Prison. She doesn't expect to meet her husband's best friend, Confederate officer Eli Kent there. And she really doesn't expect what happens next.

I like a book that keeps me guessing, and this one did. If you enjoy Civil War era stories and if you enjoy a romance that's not cut-and-dried boy-meets-girl, read this book.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too Deep for Words; a book that is hard to rate, tough to review. At times the story was so good, but then other parts bored me and I struggled to continue reading it. I don't think the writing style was really my cup of tea, just because it was hard to follow along with the story at times.

I loved the beginning of the book -- when it was told from Margaret's perspective. I also really liked the ending because it was so full of angst. The middle part of the book seemed to drag a bit (at least to me).

The ending was a cliffhanger and in some ways I like that, but then in other ways I just want to know what happens now. lol!

All in all, mixed feelings about Too Deep for Words. If you loved book one, you will probably like this story -- I haven't read that one yet.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

[Kathleen E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Friday, May 12, 2017
Too Deep for Words: A Civil War Novel by Andrea Boeshaar, © 2017
Shenandoah Valley Saga, Book Two

My Review:

So many thoughts. To be separated from family ~ far from home with the war between them, not only with distance but with sides drawn. And the remains of my family? My sister, Carrie Ann, married to a Union officer. We have seen the remnants of war continue with the loss of our mother and younger sister.

Rescued, I am rescued! A man enters the Inn and asks for Miss Margaret Bell. That is me!! At first, I am chagrined wondering if it is in recouping funds he has lost, but no! It is Carrie's husband and he has made a way of escape for me! Release from the man who was behind the loss of all those held dear to me. Well, maybe Carrie Ann and I did have a few struggles with each other, bossy as she can be to me.

Home. Will she accept me? Being married and all, Carrie may have continued on in her life, wanting no interference from me. But, Peyton said to come, she would be amiss to be left behind.

Known long before the war between the states, growing up together as children, choosing opposite sides caused the dilemma for whom to trust. Could they be taken at their word, or by their actions? Reading the series in order will give you a fuller aspect in the continuation of history and its events.

Peyton Collier and Elijah "Eli" Kent are in such a situation as best friends, having gone to academy school together. As their families become intertwined, how much can be shared?

Missing during battle and reported dead, Eli must put into place the instructions Peyton had assigned him. Protecting Carrie Ann and her sister Margaret, and Peyt's Aunt Ruth was foremost.

The trials of war on both sides were severe. With the temperature and lack of supplies, exhaustion was also a foe. Homes when available were used for immediate hospitals of the wounded ~ both for their men and prisoners.

During the war there was a lack of hospital space. Douglas Hospital in Washington DC set up tents for the overflow of the wounded. Photo by Mathew Brady. --author Andrea Boeshaar

The story ends needing the next page beginning book 3, There is a Season. Letters and descriptions of daily happenings and activities are vivid. Characters adjust within the circumstances circulating socially, politically, and everyday business necessary to carry them forward.

I would like to know more about Rebekah Kercheval, a character in the background, and hope she will be expanded in the next story.

***Thank you to Kregel Publications for sending me a print copy and inviting me to be part of the blog tour for Too Deep for Words: A Civil War Novel by Andrea Boeshaar. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***

[Narita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too Deep for Words
By Andrea Boeshaar
Until I started reading the book I did not realize it was a sequel to A Thousand Shall Fall. To say I was excited is an understatement! The first book was one I thoroughly enjoyed. This one did not disappoint either.
Once again Ms. Boesharr does an excellent job of portraying the emotions, struggles and lives of those living during the Civil War Era.
Carrie Ann has found the love of her life with Yankee officer, Peyton Collier. After living a life of deprivation and abuse she finds herself a privileged lady of means.
Life is near perfect, except for the war. She knows she could lose her husband at any time. After only 19 days as Mrs. Collier, her Peyton is called to deal with small military occurrence promising to be back for breakfast the next day. He never returns and the military reports to her that he is missing in battle and probably dead. Carrie cannot give up the gut feeling that he is alive somewhere. His aunt, her sister and their beloved house keeper try to persuade her to accept the fact he is gone, but she refuses.
Passionately she begins an exhaustive search of hospitals where wounded men have been taken. Finally there is lead that the soldiers in that battle have been taken to a certain hospital but it is a Confederate one in Virginia. She and her sister travel there on a ruse putting their lives in danger.
Carrie’s emotions are all over the place and she goes from doubt to certainty her much-loved husband is alive. In the midst of her confusion is her husband’s best friend, Eli, a confederate soldier, with whom he appointed executor of his estate should he die. Peyton also ask him to look after Carrie and his family. Eli has always been in love with her and begins to woo her. She is told she is a widow, yet she doesn’t feel like one. Should she begin a new life or continue the quest for husband? Should she listen to others or her heart?
A well written novel filled with suspense, mystery, romance, and characters that draw you into their life. I cannot wait for the sequel!! This book can be read alone but you will definitely want to read the first book!!!!
I was provided a copy of this book Kregel Publications, with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Dana Kamstra · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a person who loves story, there is one thing I hate: having the ending spoiled. Whether it’s through reading an article about a TV show, movie or reading a review in which the reviewer gives just a tad too much about the story. And with that, you can probably guess I’m a stickler about not looking ahead in a novel. I just don’t do it. When people say they do, I cringe. I can’t help it. So, this book, Too Deep for Words, has the honor of being the first book ever (at least that I can recall, I can speak for when I was much younger) of really looking ahead to see if something happened or not. I just couldn’t take the anticipation and had to settle my curiosity.

Hopefully, that tells you something about this book. I actually could not read it fast enough. The plot is heartfelt and the story so well written that I had to know what would happen before I got there. And the characters in this book are amazing! A perfect blend of fictional and real-life Civil War heroes acting this story out on their stage. At times the book felt like it went by quickly, so much was happening. Other times a bit more slowly—but I think that was me being a reader who just wanted to savor a great book. With that said, I can’t recommend the book highly enough.

At the end, I guess this will be one of those books that I can’t gush enough about, despite struggling at first. If you don’t know, this is the second book of the series. The first has been on my reading list, and I hoped to get to it before this one. That didn’t happen, so I jumped in. This is a direct continuation, so while you could probably do as I did, and start reading this one, I think you’ll regret it. I certainly am. There are plenty of spoilers of the first book in this one and I think I wouldn’t have been more interested in the story to begin with had I started with the first. And, judging by how this book ends, I am pretty confident another book will be on the way. So you have time to read these first two. And they are well worth it.


**I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Too Deep for Words
Shenandoah Valley Saga
By Andrea Boeshaar

Carrie Ann Collier has become a new person at least to those who use to know her when she lived in Woodstock and was Carrie Ann Bell. Her new husband Peyton has changed her life for the better and unknown to her he has invited her sister Margaret to join them leaving the abuse of the Wayfarers Inn behind forever. But Margaret has changed since Carrie Ann last saw her. She's grown up and she is appreciative of all that Carrie Ann had done for her.

But after a brutal battle news is delivered to Carrie Ann that Peyton is missing and presumed dead. But she refuses to believe her husband of less than one month has been killed. But everyone else believes the awful news that their nephew, brother, brother-in-law, and friend has died. Even more upsetting is Peyton's directive naming his close friend Eli Kent as executor of his will. How could he pick someone on the opposing side of the war?

To Eli, Peyton's request is a blessing in disguise offering him an opportunity to care for his family while looking out for Carrie Ann as well. But can he help Carrie Ann when she most needs it - searching for her husband behind enemy lines in the most notorious prison camp - Libby Prison?

This book is a fictionalized account of the Civil War from October 1864 to March 1865 with actual dated news reports throughout. The focus of this book is the Confederate viewpoint and the destruction that was wrought on the Shenandoah Valley. The pain and suffering of war is well portrayed and the utter lack of the essentials was a driving force in the harsh conditions that the prisoners found themselves in.

This is a story of faith and family. I have not read the first book but I was able to easily able to pick up on the storyline without any difficulty. This is a moving historical romance that will appeal to a wide readership. I highly recommend this book it would be an excellent choice for a book club selection. Carrie Ann's journey and faith would be well worth an examination.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

TOO DEEP FOR WORDS continues The Shenandoah Valley Saga that Andrea Boeshaar began in A THOUSAND SHALL FALL. Sisters Carrie Ann and Margaret Jean Bell are reunited when Carrie Ann's new husband (an Union officer) rescues Margaret from her indentured servant position at the Wayfarers Inn. But the two sisters have little time to settle back into a companionable relationship when word comes that another skirmish is happening between Union and Confederates along the Maryland-Virginia border, and within a day, Carrie Ann learns that her husband is missing and presumed dead.

Like the first book in the series, the plot concentrates not so much on the battles of war, but on the lives of those who have connections on both the South and the North. Eli Kent, a Confederate soldier, who once served in the US Army with Carrie Ann's husband, is one. When he learns that he is the executor over his former friend's estate, he takes secret actions to protect not only his Southern family, but also Carrie Ann who refuses to accept her husband's death.

I read the A THOUSAND SHALL FALL almost 18 months ago and it took me several chapters of TOO DEEP FOR WORDS to piece together the past actions of Carrie Ann, Margaret, Peyton, and Eli. Current readers should not have that problem because they can move quickly from book one to the next. However, I did feel the ending left lots of room for a third book which would take the readers into a post-war Virginia, a book which is slated for 2018 publication. In this installment, the author has woven in scenes which include historical figures, including General Sheridan and President Lincoln, adding authenticity to the dates of action.

TOO DEEP FOR WORDS and A THOUSAND SHALL FALL offer stories of promises held, dangerous choices, committed love, and discovered faith against the ever-changing background of a nation at war. I received a copy for review purposes from Kregel publications, and all opinions are mine.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Too Deep for Words is the second in the Shenandoah Valley Saga series written by Andrea Boeshaar. I did not read the first book but found enough references to the previous book that I had no difficulty following the story.

Set during the Civil War, the primary characters are Carrie and her sister Margaret. Carrie is married to Peyton Collier, a Yankee officer, and enjoys a life of relative ease while her younger sister, Margaret struggles to make it through each day working at the Wayfarer's Inn. Peyton (acting on behalf of his wife) manages to free Margaret from her life indebted to a ruthless employer and brings her back to the home he shares with Carrie and an elderly aunt.

While a civil war rages around them, the sisters learn to put aside past differences and throw their hearts into helping wherever they can. Margaret comes to thoroughly enjoy helping with orphans from war. The war is soon thrust upon their doorstep when their home is taken over to be used as an infirmary for wounded soldiers, both Confederate and Union.

Their charitable work also helps keep Carrie's mind off the news that her husband is missing in action. Her heart cannot accept that he may have been killed and she secretly makes inquiries to find out whether Peyton may be lingering in an enemy hospital or prison.

While providing some historical background, the book was largely focused on the affects of the war on the characters and their relationships with one another. It provided some suspense and mystery and not everything was entirely wrapped up at the book's conclusion so readers will have to stay tuned for the next installment of the Shenandoah Valley Saga!

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Too Deep for Words from Kregel Publications for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.

[Gayle Pace · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS
There's nothing like a good historical romance.. This one takes place when the country is fighting on two sides during the Civil War. Romance can be just as exciting even during war, even if it is for just a few fleeting moments. I love historical rich tales of wars gone by. It shows in this book that the author has done research since the story is so rich in detail. You can almost picture being there in Carrie's place, her husband missing and now her husband's friend showing up to take care of her. Is her husband dead? Will Elijah take over where her husband left off.? The marriage was so fresh and new, just a mere nineteen days. As you read, the author takes the story into your heart and soul. You can't stop reading. As you read you grow to care about Carrie and what she is going through. War is never easy for anyone, the soldiers, the ones left behind, but for a newly wed, it must have been torture to not know where her husband was. The conflicts of life during war are dealt with in different ways by different people. Sometimes the answer is faith and this is brought through in this book, not in a preachy way but it's presented as a possibility. This story will touch your heart with the war, the heartaches, the losses, loves and how it is all dealt with. A very well written Christian Historical Romance that places the reader right there beside the characters and your heart strings will pull tight at times, a tear may drop but let their faith come through.

I received this book from the author and Kregel Blog Tours and voluntarily decided to review it.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you enjoy novels set during the time of the Civil War? Andrea Boeshaar has a new series called, Shenandoah Valley Saga, and the second book in this series, Too Deep for Words, has just been released. This story begins with Carrie Ann Bell and Colonel Peyton Collier being recently married. With war raging all around them, Carrie knows that Peyton life is in God's hands. When Peyton comes up missing after a battle, Carrie refuses to believe that he is really dead since they haven't found his body. Everyone tells her to accept the truth, but she just can't let go of this feeling that he is still alive. Carrie is willing to go to dangerous lengths to find out if her instincts are right, but what will she find? Peyton or a broken heart?

I thought this was an interesting story to follow up the first novel. The author does keep you guessing all throughout the book as to what has happened to Colonel Peyton Collier. I appreciated all the research Andrea Boeshaar put into writing this novel. The story transports the reader to another time and gives them a glimpse of our nation's past history. This was one of those books that was hard to put down especially not knowing how things would end, and it had me racing to the end. The way this book ended definitely leads to another book, and I'm looking forward to reading the third book in this series, There is a Season, which will be released in 2018. If you're looking for a fun historical series to start, pick up this new series by Andrea Boeshaar. These books are fun and captivating.

***I received this free book from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrea Boeshaar takes readers back to the latter half of the Civil War in the second title of her Shenandoah Valley Saga. I have a mixed view of middle books as I’ve felt some of them have merely been filler. I’m happy to say this is not the case with Too Deep for Words. The story of the Bell and Collier families continues with a look at life on the southern home front. What was it like to have your city continually change hands, as happened to Winchester, Virginia? What could you do when a man in uniform informed you that your home was being requisitioned as a field hospital? What if you were quiet supporters of the Union?

While Carrie and Peyton are still the major characters in the series, much of this book focuses on Margaret, Carrie’s sister, and Eli, Peyton’s friend. I wasn’t a fan of Margaret at first, but she grew on me as she attempted to find her place in her new environment. Meanwhile, although it looked like Eli was trying to do the right thing, I was never entirely sure of his motives. Was he to be believed or not? I do know, though, that I couldn’t stand his domineering mother!

Too Deep for Words is not a book you can read on its own. It starts just a matter of days after the events of A Thousand Shall Fall, and often refers to events in that book. And it finishes on a maddening cliffhanger! Like me, once you’ve finished reading, you’ll be eager for the next book in the series. According to Andrea Boeshaar’s website, it has a title but it won’t be out until next year!

Thank you to Kregel for my complimentary copy of Too Deep for Words, which I received in exchange for my honest review.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading books about the civil war. In this story the author has captured the time period perfectly. You can feel the tension as the war rages on. The anguish that families deal with wondering if their loved one is coming home safe is overwhelming.

Carrie is a newlywed and is excited to begin her life with her husband, Peyton. The war takes him away and she worries everyday about his safety. When she gets word that he is missing , she will do everything in her power to find him. Carrie feels in her heart that he is alive. What would you do to find your missing husband? There are so many intriguing parts to this book, I couldn't put it down. The author showed us how Carrie had faith that her husband would be fine. I loved that Carrie held on to hope and never wavered.

The author gives readers a glimpse of a time period that is easy to picture with her incredible words. I loved how the story kept readers wondering what had happened to Peyton. There are a few surprises in the book and I was very intrigued by an old friend that shows up. Is this friend here to help Carrie find her husband? The book moves at a great pace and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. The author really keeps her readers glued to the story with excitement, mystery and hope. Make sure you pick up this book and get swept away to a place where one woman is willing to cross enemy lines to find her husband . Is Peyton alive? Did he fall into the enemy's hands?

I received this book from Kregel Book Tours. The review is my own opinion.

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, but it was different than I thought it would be. This was very much a continuation of the first book as it picks up right where that one left off and is mostly about Carrie and her struggle to believe Peyton is really dead and ultimately, her decision to look for him in enemy territory. Since the beginning started out from Margaret's point of view, I thought it would have more of her story than it did. I enjoyed seeing how different Margaret had become after the hardships she suffered when Carrie left. Eli was also a wonderful character who was trying to figure out his place in a world where the Confederacy is dying and he's falling for a Union widow. Both Eli and Carrie have a strong faith throughout the book while Margaret is just learning about God. There's some romance. I love books centered around the Civil War and the intrigues and situations Carrie gets herself in were quite suspenseful and dangerous. There were some battle scenes and hospital scenes, but nothing gory. I would recommend this book if you like well-written Civil War or historical fiction, but you should probably read book one first in order to understand the characters better.

I received this book free from Kregel Publications.

[Mackenzie Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Too Deep for Words is the second book in Andrea Boeshaar’s Shenandoah Valley series, coming after A Thousand Shall Fall. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I purchased Too Deep for Words back when it first came out, I’ve just been so far behind on all my reading that I just now got around to reading it. Needless to say, reading needs to be near the top of my summer to-do list. Anyway, this story is the continuation of the story of the Civil War and Carrie Ann Collier’s “part” in it, though this novel focused quite a bit more on her sister Margaret as well, unlike the previous installment. However, I really enjoyed getting to know Margaret’s story, as she had faced even more than Carrie Ann in their old home before Peyton saved her. Besides that, she gave such a different perspective from Carrie Ann, since she had a personality all her own, which added more layers to the story.

One thing I do feel that I need to get out of the way, however, is the couple of not-so-great aspects that I noticed. Now, don’t get me wrong, all in all I really enjoyed this novel. There were just a few things about it that bothered me. For starters—now it’s been a long time since I read A Thousand Shall Fall so I might not be remembering correctly, but I felt like the first novel was considerably well written. Too Deep for Words didn’t seem to be as well done. I could also be feeling like that because I have been fortunate to read so many wonderful novels since I first read A Thousand Shall Fall over two years ago, so it might just be that I have just seen so many more examples of fantastic writing since then. Either way, I felt like the dialogue was a little stiff and forced, which can be hard to keep from happening, I know. And I just felt like there weren’t as many unexpected twists and turns as there were in the last novel. That’s also difficult to continuously do, I know, but I just felt like this story was a little too predictable.

Anyway, enough with the not so nice part of this review. Other than what I just mentioned, I really, really did enjoy this book. I really fell in love with Eli, and with Margaret, and I’m really curious what will happen to finish the two of their stories. For Margaret, I am very unsure where her story will go. It was left very unfinished at the end of this novel—which I am completely sure was intentional, as that makes sense in a series—and I am just not sure at all where Andrea will take her next. For Eli, I am completely curious as to what he will do now that he has had two potential loves in his life not turn out, whether by his own choice or not (no, I will not be any more specific than that because I don’t want to spoil anything, but just believe me when I say it is VERY intriguing and leaves you wondering what will come next).

All in all, I really did enjoy this novel, and I am most certainly looking forward to the next one in the series. Andrea is a very talented author, and I’m excited to see where she takes the Collier sisters and the rest of their companions in the rest of their story. Because of this, and everything else that I’ve stated in my review, I can happily give this novel four out of five bookshelves, and I highly recommend it, though I would definitely suggest reading the first novel in the series first!
(This review is from my blog, spreadinghisgrace.blogspot.com)

[Tammy G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy novels/books by Andrea Boeshaar because I know that they will have a definite christian theme. She is a trust worthy author.
Carrie Ann Collier is a new bride, married only nineteen days when her new husband is missing in action. Except that Carrie doesn't believe he is dead. Carrie decides to follow her heart and find out if her husband is still alive.
But in the meantime, her sister, Margaret, decides to come back into her life. And then Carrie's husband's best friend, Eli, comes too. Eli comes because he made a promise to protect the Collier women.
Then Carrie decides that she will find her husband! And off she goes.
An well written christian historical romance.
The character and manners of days gone by are so real that one longs for the chivalry once again. And then, the character of Carrie and how she longs for her husband and to find him.
The story is realistic and without giving any spoilers the reader should know that Carrie is determined and stout. And live can be painful and beautiful at the same time. 💗
Somewhat of a surprise ending (at least for me).
A grand read!
*This book was provided by Kregel*

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Shenandoah Valley Saga. This book leaves off just a few days later from the end of book 1. We follow Carrie Ann, a new wife to Yankee husband Peyton. Recalling her blissful new life with her husband, tragedy overcomes her. She finds him missing in action and presumed dead.

Everyone around her wants her to throw on black clothes and mourn the loss of her husband but Carrie Ann refuses to give up hope that he may be still alive. She finds Peyton's friend, a rebel officer the executor of her husband's estate pending his death and now he is in her life, stealing her heart away from her sorrow. Can Carrie Ann believe that her husband is indeed gone and follow her heart to a life with her husband's best friend, Eli?

This book brings you back to the days of fighting during the Civil War. This book gives you the perspective of the Confederate Army. Seeing it through their eyes. Book 1 showed the Civil War through the eyes of the Yankees. Gripping from page one since you are left right back where the first book left off you grab the story quickly and it takes you away until you are done with the very last page.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea Boeshaar's first novel in this series, A Thousand Shall Fall, captivated me, so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review this second book. As before, Boeshaar transported me into the story from the opening paragraphs with an authentic setting, believable characters, and her talent for seamlessly weaving together fact and fiction. Divided loyalties experienced by many who knew and cared for soldiers on both sides of the war lead to ethical dilemmas, and the ever-present and turbulent passions make the pages fairly tremble with the tension. Gripping and impossible to set aside after a mere chapter or two, Two Deep for Words is historical fiction at its best. I'm already looking forward to Book #3!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Kregel Publications for a blog tour. 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.”

[Kella · Rating 4 out of 5]

After being married to her beloved for only nineteen days, Carrie Ann Collier suddenly finds herself a widow of the Civil War. With her new husband supposedly dead, Carrie must dutifully press on, taking care of her somewhat estranged sister, and her husband’s family. But not believing her husband is really gone, Carrie finds herself behind enemy lines, searching for the truth – to find him alive.

Whewwwww Andrea Boeshaar certainly knows how to pull her readers into a story! Normally, I find Civil War stories difficult in holding my attention for very long, often finding them too dry a read, but this was so not the case with Boeshaar’s 2nd book in the Shenandoah Valley Saga, Too Deep for Words. Fast-paced, intriguing, and full of spirited female characters, this novel was a refreshing historical read!

I was graciously provided a free copy of this novel from Kregal Publications in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book took my breath away. It is the story of Carrie Ann and Peyton during the Civil War. If you like historical novels set during this time period, you will love reading this book. Though Carrie Ann and Peyton have only been married a handful of days, her love for him is deep. When the war takes a toll her heart cannot accept....that's when the story really takes off.

The author has such an amazing way with words and being able to paint pictures in your mind, making you see the scenes as if you were right there next to Carrie Ann. The amount of research and effort the author has put forth in writing this novel is evident in every chapter, and is one of the most well-written fictional books I have read this year.

I haven't read the first in the series, however, reading this one has made me go back and buy the first in the series. I can't wait to start reading the series from the very beginning.

[Elsa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Carrie Ann is now married to her Colonel Collier. The war rages on and he must leave again. She receives word that he is dead but refuses to believe it. We see more of her sister and childhood friend as well as the Confederate officer Eli Kent.
I didn't find this to be as good as the first book, "A Thousand Shall Fall". In honestly, i got bored and skimmed through to find out what happened. I just really liked Peyton and Carrie's original love story so it wasn't as interesting finding out he was presumed killed in battle. I'm glad I managed to catch the gist of the story and read on until the end. But, it ended so abruptly! I turned the page expecting more. And this is the last book in the series so I guess it's up to the reader to decide the final outcome.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first book in this series and couldn’t wait to get my hands on this second book. It was great to meet up with these wonderful characters again.
Carrie is such a sweet woman and so strong. I love her personality. Her love for her husband is so strong and I enjoyed watching their relationship.
In this book we get to know Carrie’s sister, Margaret. She added more layers to this story.
I couldn’t wait to see how everything would play out and what trouble Carrie would find herself in this time.
If you love historical, especially placed in during the Civil War you will love this book.

A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Donia · Rating 1 out of 5]

To be honest I abandoned this story mid way. I did not realize this book is apparently part of a series and as such I found this book extremely dull and lacking in continuity. To begin with I felt as a reader that I was dropped into someone's argument without knowing the background and therefore just couldn't care about the characters. I love this time in history and as a historical buff I wanted something to sink my teeth into but found absolutely nothing. All there was was a lot of arguing between the characters about their relationship issues. I wish the cover of the book or the flyleaf had said BOOK #2 or something!

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a continuation of the Shenandoah Valley Saga that began with A Thousand Shall Fall. I enjoyed this story though not quite like the first book. Carrie Ann finds her too sisters and Peyton asks Margaret to join him and Carrie Ann in their home. Peyton then must go to fight again. This story made me cry in many places. It truly shows how many of the women must have felt during this bloody time in our history. I received this book from I blog for Kregel for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[Becki · Rating 3 out of 5]

As much as I would like, I can't give the book more than 3 stars. I think it because of the slow parts of the book. The book started strong, then slowed, and then in the last few pages picked up again. The book ends with a major cliffhanger which means I will be forced to read book 3 if it comes out soon. I desperately want to know what happens to Eli now that he has turned himself over to the North and what happens to Peyton.

[Cathy Bickerstaff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm ready for the next book

I enjoyed the good writing and plot in both books one and two of the Shenandoah valley saga, but this ending absolutely makes me want to hunt down book three and start now. Normally I don't want to read series books serially, but this is an exception. If you enjoy historical fiction, especially about "the war between the States" , don't miss those books.