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Harmony #0
A Place Called Harmony
Desperate to escape his overbearing father, Patrick McAllen disappears with his bride, heading north to build a new town -- discovering strength, honor and true love along the way.
415 pages, Library Binding
First published October 7, 2014
117 people are currently reading
688 people want to read
About the author
Jodi Thomas
128 books2,498 followersI'm a New York Times and USA Today Best Selling author, wife, mother, in-law, grandmother, sister, friend, and owner of one fat cat.
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September 29, 2014
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A PLACE CALLED HARMONY
Jodi Thomas
Berkley Books
October 2014
Harmon Ely has had a trading post for ten years smack dab in the middle of nowhere, Texas where two streams cross in the panhandle. The man is nearly ready for his wife and three children to join him, but before he sends for them he wants to establish a town so his family will be able to have friends and neighbors. Harmon advertises that he will give each man that comes to his part of the panhandle of Texas, forty acres and will build him a house to live in for two years. If the party decides to stay in this new town longer than the two years, Harmon will deed the land and house to him free. One non-negotiable stipulation: The man must bring a wife; or wife and family.
Clint Truman fought on the losing side of the war with Terry’s Texas Rangers, and returned home to help out on his folk’s farm. After his parents passed on, Clint married a widow, and they had two beautiful little girls. Sadly, Clint lost his family to the fever – he had gone to get a doctor when they died. The day after he buried his loved ones Clint burned the house and the barns, and left town; he hasn’t drawn a sober breath since until the sheriff in Huntsville made him a deal. Sheriff Lightstone told Clint about Harmon’s proposition and added that the town would need a good man for their sheriff, and he was sure Clint could do the job. Clint didn’t know about the wife part until he had sobered up and cleaned up and then he and the lawman went to the women’s prison just as women were being released. Clint found a wife named Karissa and a bonus, a newborn baby boy. After being assured that Clint will treat her right, she agrees to marry him and wants enough land to plant the apple seeds she has sewn in the seams of her traveling clothes.
Patrick McAllen is running away from home at the age of twenty. His father, Reverend Solomon McAllen, has beaten his youngest son for the last time, and he and his best friend, Annie Spencer, leave Galveston and make it to Houston, where they get married, then they set out for Harmon’s trading post. Patrick and his brother, Shelly, are master carpenters, and they will help build the new town. Patrick feels that his father will track him down and beat him to death, but a chance at freedom and a new life is worth any price.
Captain Gillian Matheson has received a letter from his wife Daisy demanding he join her and their young sons at Harmon Ely’s Trading Post by the second week of March. Gillian feels something terrible has happened that would cause Daisy to leave her family in Kansas and travel to Texas. They have been married for five years and most of that time they spent apart. Gillian hasn’t been ready to leave the Army and Daisy was not agreeable to following her husband from post-to-post. Gillian recently found a young girl in an outlaw camp, and on the way to Harmon's place he drops her off at a mission; however she escapes and is only two hours behind Gillian. He is mighty lucky she is with him; he does find out her name is Jessie. Gillian has studied law books for years, and has strong leadership qualities. The Matheson family will be quite an asset to Harmony Ely’s town.
Many generations later the issues of these founding families are still in Harmony, plus a few other names the reader will recognize. Jodi Thomas began her writing career with Texas historical romance tales, and this is her most beloved genre. Ms. Thomas’s extraordinary way with the written word in any era is totally amazing, as her stories are always five-star. Her men are always imbued with morals, intelligence, and integrity, and her women are sassy, independent, and a match for any man worthy of them. A PLACE CALLED HARMONY is skillfully plotted and researched. The perfect pace of this book along with the humor, romance, and appealing characters with all their flaws and strengths, makes it very difficult to find a stopping place. A PLACE CALLED HARMONY is truly a gift to be savored by the many readers that love the works of Jodi Thomas.
Betty Cox, ReaderToReader.com
A PLACE CALLED HARMONY
Jodi Thomas
Berkley Books
October 2014
Harmon Ely has had a trading post for ten years smack dab in the middle of nowhere, Texas where two streams cross in the panhandle. The man is nearly ready for his wife and three children to join him, but before he sends for them he wants to establish a town so his family will be able to have friends and neighbors. Harmon advertises that he will give each man that comes to his part of the panhandle of Texas, forty acres and will build him a house to live in for two years. If the party decides to stay in this new town longer than the two years, Harmon will deed the land and house to him free. One non-negotiable stipulation: The man must bring a wife; or wife and family.
Clint Truman fought on the losing side of the war with Terry’s Texas Rangers, and returned home to help out on his folk’s farm. After his parents passed on, Clint married a widow, and they had two beautiful little girls. Sadly, Clint lost his family to the fever – he had gone to get a doctor when they died. The day after he buried his loved ones Clint burned the house and the barns, and left town; he hasn’t drawn a sober breath since until the sheriff in Huntsville made him a deal. Sheriff Lightstone told Clint about Harmon’s proposition and added that the town would need a good man for their sheriff, and he was sure Clint could do the job. Clint didn’t know about the wife part until he had sobered up and cleaned up and then he and the lawman went to the women’s prison just as women were being released. Clint found a wife named Karissa and a bonus, a newborn baby boy. After being assured that Clint will treat her right, she agrees to marry him and wants enough land to plant the apple seeds she has sewn in the seams of her traveling clothes.
Patrick McAllen is running away from home at the age of twenty. His father, Reverend Solomon McAllen, has beaten his youngest son for the last time, and he and his best friend, Annie Spencer, leave Galveston and make it to Houston, where they get married, then they set out for Harmon’s trading post. Patrick and his brother, Shelly, are master carpenters, and they will help build the new town. Patrick feels that his father will track him down and beat him to death, but a chance at freedom and a new life is worth any price.
Captain Gillian Matheson has received a letter from his wife Daisy demanding he join her and their young sons at Harmon Ely’s Trading Post by the second week of March. Gillian feels something terrible has happened that would cause Daisy to leave her family in Kansas and travel to Texas. They have been married for five years and most of that time they spent apart. Gillian hasn’t been ready to leave the Army and Daisy was not agreeable to following her husband from post-to-post. Gillian recently found a young girl in an outlaw camp, and on the way to Harmon's place he drops her off at a mission; however she escapes and is only two hours behind Gillian. He is mighty lucky she is with him; he does find out her name is Jessie. Gillian has studied law books for years, and has strong leadership qualities. The Matheson family will be quite an asset to Harmony Ely’s town.
Many generations later the issues of these founding families are still in Harmony, plus a few other names the reader will recognize. Jodi Thomas began her writing career with Texas historical romance tales, and this is her most beloved genre. Ms. Thomas’s extraordinary way with the written word in any era is totally amazing, as her stories are always five-star. Her men are always imbued with morals, intelligence, and integrity, and her women are sassy, independent, and a match for any man worthy of them. A PLACE CALLED HARMONY is skillfully plotted and researched. The perfect pace of this book along with the humor, romance, and appealing characters with all their flaws and strengths, makes it very difficult to find a stopping place. A PLACE CALLED HARMONY is truly a gift to be savored by the many readers that love the works of Jodi Thomas.
Betty Cox, ReaderToReader.com
March 5, 2015
A Place Called Harmony is a prequel to the wonderful Harmony series written by Jodi Thomas. I have been enthralled by this series since I found it back in 2012. (The first one came out in 2010). I have come to love all the characters in this town in Texas. In this book Jodi Thomas takes us back to the very beginning of the town in the 1870's. At that time it was just a twinkle in the eye of Harmon Ely who ran a trading post in a spot that he wanted to build a town. And so we are taken back to how the Trumans, McAllens and Mathesons found their way to Harmon Ely's trading post and helped him begin his dream. As I thought of the present day characters, I loved hearing about their forebears and how it all began.
One of the requirements Harmon had was that they brought a wife along with them. Well Daisy and her boys arrived first and was determined that her husband, a soldier would meet her there, and that they could build something together. When Gillian Matheson finally makes it there he is in for a few surprises.
Patrick McAllen has had a very tough time at home, a preacher father who is really insane and has made his young life a misery. He teams up with Annie and off they set for the trading post. He is a skilled builder and it is he who leads the others in all the buildings they have to prepare. However it is not long before he is followed by one family member and then another.
Clint Truman is still grieving at the loss of his wife and two daughters to illness and is picked up by a local lawman and told to either face a life in jail or get his act together, get sober and do something positive with his life. He picks up a very unlikely wife and off they venture off towards the trading post. Sewn into the lining of her coat Karissa his wife, has apple seeds to plant. Aha! So that is how the Truman apple orchard started!
This is a story of beginnings, and how unlikely people come together in a spirit of cooperation and courage to build a community. The life is hard but exciting. Bonds of love and friendship are forged. Others arrive and the first of the Wright family arrives - they are to become the undertakers of the town, he said he was willing to undertake anything!
The characters were varied and were perfect in their imperfections, the plot moved along at a good pace. I would just grow to love one set of characters and there would be a switch to the next. For a moment I'd resent the jump, but soon I would be absorbed in their story.
This book could easily be read first if you haven't read this series, or it fits in anywhere. Now I really eagerly anticipate the next in this series and I don't have long to wait until I will be wrapped up in another story about the people in Harmony.
One of the requirements Harmon had was that they brought a wife along with them. Well Daisy and her boys arrived first and was determined that her husband, a soldier would meet her there, and that they could build something together. When Gillian Matheson finally makes it there he is in for a few surprises.
Patrick McAllen has had a very tough time at home, a preacher father who is really insane and has made his young life a misery. He teams up with Annie and off they set for the trading post. He is a skilled builder and it is he who leads the others in all the buildings they have to prepare. However it is not long before he is followed by one family member and then another.
Clint Truman is still grieving at the loss of his wife and two daughters to illness and is picked up by a local lawman and told to either face a life in jail or get his act together, get sober and do something positive with his life. He picks up a very unlikely wife and off they venture off towards the trading post. Sewn into the lining of her coat Karissa his wife, has apple seeds to plant. Aha! So that is how the Truman apple orchard started!
This is a story of beginnings, and how unlikely people come together in a spirit of cooperation and courage to build a community. The life is hard but exciting. Bonds of love and friendship are forged. Others arrive and the first of the Wright family arrives - they are to become the undertakers of the town, he said he was willing to undertake anything!
The characters were varied and were perfect in their imperfections, the plot moved along at a good pace. I would just grow to love one set of characters and there would be a switch to the next. For a moment I'd resent the jump, but soon I would be absorbed in their story.
This book could easily be read first if you haven't read this series, or it fits in anywhere. Now I really eagerly anticipate the next in this series and I don't have long to wait until I will be wrapped up in another story about the people in Harmony.
December 6, 2014
4/5; 4 stars; A-
Having read every book in the Harmony series, it was a real treat to read about the families who founded the town. Each founding family, the Trumans, the McAllens, the Mathesons, and Harmon Ely himself, have a poignant and unique history to reveal.
From Momma Roma to the Wrights, the extra characters who helped found the town added some spice. I would recommend reading this book if you are a fan of the series. If you are just starting to read about Harmony, you might still want to read the first few books in the series before this one. I think it would make it more enjoyable.
Having read every book in the Harmony series, it was a real treat to read about the families who founded the town. Each founding family, the Trumans, the McAllens, the Mathesons, and Harmon Ely himself, have a poignant and unique history to reveal.
From Momma Roma to the Wrights, the extra characters who helped found the town added some spice. I would recommend reading this book if you are a fan of the series. If you are just starting to read about Harmony, you might still want to read the first few books in the series before this one. I think it would make it more enjoyable.
October 31, 2016
Great idea to go back to where it all started. I haven't read any of the contemporary Harmony books yet but will start reading now. Good storytelling with a slightly old fashioned feel and steam level that fits perfectly with the characters and the setting.
July 12, 2022
This is actually book 8 of the Harmony series. I am glad to have read it first. Ely Harmon, injured from a war, dreams of building a town in the wild of Northern Texas 1875. He paints a sign population 1 above his trading post. Slowly 3 men are chosen by him over a year. They are to bring a wife if they take the job. After 2 years they will be deeded 40 acres and a house. 3 men marry and travel north to nothing but a trading post in nowhere. One is a carpenter, one a captain in the army, and one an ex soldier capable of handling a gun. Thru the carpenter, the planner, and the law a town is built called Harmony.
October 14, 2014
The idea of romance set against the backdrop of the inception of a town on the frontier of Northern Texas after the Civil War had vast appeal. It didn't hurt that it was written by an author I've had my eye on to try out her stuff for a while. From the beginning, this story that is really several stories all in one ran me through all my emotions and left me so satisfied in the end.
From what I can gather, this book is a late written prequel to an existing series about the people of the modern day small Texas town of Harmony. This prequel is about the town's beginnings and about the three main founding families- Trumans, McAllens, and Mathesons. Each of these couples get their story told separately and then the stories wove together when they met up to start the town. This book can read as a standalone, a beginning to series or a mid-series flashback to how it all started.
The first couple, the Trumans, had probably the farthest to come and I don't mean physical distance. They began as a drunken man beaten down by life that is given one last chance by the sheriff. He is offered the opportunity for work with a man who wants to found a town in the wild northern Texas area. The job comes with pay and forty acres of land if he sticks it out for two years. Truman is all set to take it until he learns he must have a wife. This is solved when the sheriff chooses a woman recently released from prison with no other option. Truman lays it out there for her with all honesty- he'll never love again, he'll provide for her and keeper her safe, and the silent, mysterious woman takes him up on it along with adding that he can never force himself on her or ask about her past.
The second couple, the McAllens, are young, adventurous and running away from abusive homes. They have known each other all their lives and now this opportunity for Patrick to go as a carpenter to help build a town and acquire land is just the fresh start they need. Annie and Patrick bubble over with innocence and young love as they grow up fast struggling to begin their life together.
And the final couple, the Matthesons, are already married, but have never really been together longer than it took for him to get her pregnant and return to his army post. Gillian only knows army life, but he falls in love with a beautiful Kansas farm girl and marries her only to find that she has no intentions of leaving the family farm. Daisy thought he would change his mind if she told him no often enough, but now she realizes that if she wants a home with her husband and her boys, she will have to leave the bosom of her family and strike out to make a new home with her husband. The task of beginning a new town seems like a good fresh start for both of them if only she can persuade Gillian to give up his army career and do it.
This one was probably a vast undertaking for the author in that she wrote several interconnecting stories all in one book. It really worked and had a cohesiveness to it that really impressed me. The three men did most of the narration. Each man was so different from the other as were their circumstances that even without the chapter headings I would have known who was continuing the stories. I was taken with how these very different people were coming together for one common goal and how they became friends along the way.
All three couples were in essence courting and falling in love through this western frontier adventure and that was the best part. There was humor, heartbreak and heartwarming scenes that really resonated with me. Truman and Karrissa are the damaged ones that have to take things carefully and gently. Patrick and Annie are just shining with fun and young love in their innocent explorations into passion. And Gillian and Daisy are the second chance lovers who are hopeful that what brought them together will keep them together.
But there is a balance too. It's not all relationship building. This story paints a good picture of post-war Texas, frontier life, and pioneer spirit. There are some pretty tragic stuff and dangerous situations going on.
All in all, this was a fantastic western historical romance full of a pinch of spice to the romances and some intense situations to make you realize you're reading a western. I will eventually make my way back for the modern-day Harmony books to see what happened to the later generations.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
From what I can gather, this book is a late written prequel to an existing series about the people of the modern day small Texas town of Harmony. This prequel is about the town's beginnings and about the three main founding families- Trumans, McAllens, and Mathesons. Each of these couples get their story told separately and then the stories wove together when they met up to start the town. This book can read as a standalone, a beginning to series or a mid-series flashback to how it all started.
The first couple, the Trumans, had probably the farthest to come and I don't mean physical distance. They began as a drunken man beaten down by life that is given one last chance by the sheriff. He is offered the opportunity for work with a man who wants to found a town in the wild northern Texas area. The job comes with pay and forty acres of land if he sticks it out for two years. Truman is all set to take it until he learns he must have a wife. This is solved when the sheriff chooses a woman recently released from prison with no other option. Truman lays it out there for her with all honesty- he'll never love again, he'll provide for her and keeper her safe, and the silent, mysterious woman takes him up on it along with adding that he can never force himself on her or ask about her past.
The second couple, the McAllens, are young, adventurous and running away from abusive homes. They have known each other all their lives and now this opportunity for Patrick to go as a carpenter to help build a town and acquire land is just the fresh start they need. Annie and Patrick bubble over with innocence and young love as they grow up fast struggling to begin their life together.
And the final couple, the Matthesons, are already married, but have never really been together longer than it took for him to get her pregnant and return to his army post. Gillian only knows army life, but he falls in love with a beautiful Kansas farm girl and marries her only to find that she has no intentions of leaving the family farm. Daisy thought he would change his mind if she told him no often enough, but now she realizes that if she wants a home with her husband and her boys, she will have to leave the bosom of her family and strike out to make a new home with her husband. The task of beginning a new town seems like a good fresh start for both of them if only she can persuade Gillian to give up his army career and do it.
This one was probably a vast undertaking for the author in that she wrote several interconnecting stories all in one book. It really worked and had a cohesiveness to it that really impressed me. The three men did most of the narration. Each man was so different from the other as were their circumstances that even without the chapter headings I would have known who was continuing the stories. I was taken with how these very different people were coming together for one common goal and how they became friends along the way.
All three couples were in essence courting and falling in love through this western frontier adventure and that was the best part. There was humor, heartbreak and heartwarming scenes that really resonated with me. Truman and Karrissa are the damaged ones that have to take things carefully and gently. Patrick and Annie are just shining with fun and young love in their innocent explorations into passion. And Gillian and Daisy are the second chance lovers who are hopeful that what brought them together will keep them together.
But there is a balance too. It's not all relationship building. This story paints a good picture of post-war Texas, frontier life, and pioneer spirit. There are some pretty tragic stuff and dangerous situations going on.
All in all, this was a fantastic western historical romance full of a pinch of spice to the romances and some intense situations to make you realize you're reading a western. I will eventually make my way back for the modern-day Harmony books to see what happened to the later generations.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2014
You’ve read about Harmony in Jodi Thomas’ previous novels, now learn the story of how it all began…
Harmon Ely wanted to build a town. After 10 years of running his trading post, he figured it was about time for some company, so he placed an ad looking for workers, promising 40 acres and a house for anyone who will stay for two years to help build the town.
Haunted by a troubled past, Clint Truman spends his days in the saloon where he drinks away his bitter memories. Once a soldier in Terry’s Texas Rangers, he’s better known now for being little more than a drunk brawler. After losing everything that ever mattered to him, life has left him hardened and angry. With his life spiraling out of control, it seems his options are running low, so when Clint’s offered a job to haul supplies and defend a new town in Texas, he knows he has to go. There’s just one catch- he needs to bring a bride.
Patrick McAllen has run away from home, for good. His father had beaten him nearly to death for previous escape attempts, and made it clear that the next time there would be no beating- he would find him, and he would kill him. But Patrick remains hopeful. With sadness, he says goodbye to his brother Shelley, taking along his neighbor’s daughter, Annie, to be his bride. Together they plan to build a town for Harmon Ely, and a future for themselves. Yet still his father’s warning weighs heavy on Patrick’s mind, as his past threatens to follow him all the way to Harmony.
Captain Gillian Matheson is trying to get to his wife Daisy. After sending him a cryptic letter asking him to meet her at a trading post run by Harmon Ely, he fears the worst and is determined to set off at once to join her. Against his wishes he is ordered to escort Jessie, a silent and independent girl who was rescued from an outlaw camp, to a mission along the way. But the girl has other plans- and a good thing, too, because an unseen danger is riding fast on their heels.
A Place Called Harmony is a heartwarming story of love, hope, and the struggle to overcome the hurt of the past. Full of strong, beautifully flawed characters that leave a lasting impression and stay with you long after you finish the book- you can’t help but fall in love with each one, and are left wanting more. Jodi Thomas has a wonderful writing style that flows with ease and draws you in at once, and is sure to keeping you reading late into the night. Don’t pass this one up!
I have received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Check out this review on my blog: EpicBookQuest.com
January 1, 2015
The entire Harmony series is an excellent read. I read them in order but you really don't have too.
August 4, 2023
I just finished the eighth book in the series. How am I going to find a book to compete with this little town? Any suggestions?
July 3, 2016
Reviewed by Jen
Book provided by NetGalley for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I absolutely adore this series. Ms Thomas hooked me in book one with the town and characters she created. And as the series has progressed, the more I want to live in Harmony and know the folks that live there. In this installment in the series, we take a step back in history to learn about the founding fathers of the town. As a fan of historical romance, I was excited to take this little jaunt back in time.
I found the idea of some old dude in the middle of nowhere Texas deciding he wanted to start a town and then basically placing ads looking for a couple families to help him make a go of his dream quite interesting. Even better is how different these families are, and yet they make it work and become a larger family and town. This story really revolves around three couples that are the ancestors of the characters we know and love from the series.
Clint and Karissa Truman meet and get married just before heading to the settlement, where Clint is basically going to be a hired gun. Clint needs a wife and Karissa is alone in the world with a newborn and decides to take a chance on Clint. I enjoyed watching these two very different people dance around each other, not wanting to fall in love, but learning to trust and care as they embark on an adventure of a lifetime.
Next we meet Patrick and Annie McAllen. Both are pretty young and come from abusive homes. The new town needs a carpenter and Patrick jumps at the chance to get away from his father. The love story between Patrick and Annie was so sweet. They were able to find happiness and purpose when their lives up to that point had been so harsh. I think these two were my favorite couple.
The final couple is Captain Gillian and Daisy Matheson. Gillian is a Texas Ranger and ever since marrying Daisy he’s been on the road for his job. Daisy learns about this settlement and signs them up without Gillian’s knowledge. She sees it as a fresh start for their marriage away from her overwhelming family. It was fun following these two as they get reacquainted and dealing with their young family as well as the other couples in this town. These two pretty much act as the parents in this newfound family/town by taking care of everyone.
Add in a host of secondary characters that just round things out and a new town is born. I adored Shelly, Patrick’s mute brother. And Jessie, a teenage girl rescued from a band of outlaws added another facet to this growing family. For a little more variety, we also got an Italian family who helped get supplies to the town and the decided to make a home there as well. By the end of the story, a trading post housing one person had grown to a booming town.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I was pulled in from page one and didn’t want to put the book down. The book jumps back and forth between these couples as they make their way to Harmony and then gets more intertwined once they all meet and start the town.
As with most series, this book is best read if you’ve read other books in the series as bits and pieces of this history has been dropped in prior books. However, as it is a prequel of sorts (even if it is number 7, release-wise), you don’t really need to have read the series and it does stand alone quite well. I highly recommend this book to fans of the Harmony series, small-town romances and historical westerns.
Book provided by NetGalley for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I absolutely adore this series. Ms Thomas hooked me in book one with the town and characters she created. And as the series has progressed, the more I want to live in Harmony and know the folks that live there. In this installment in the series, we take a step back in history to learn about the founding fathers of the town. As a fan of historical romance, I was excited to take this little jaunt back in time.
I found the idea of some old dude in the middle of nowhere Texas deciding he wanted to start a town and then basically placing ads looking for a couple families to help him make a go of his dream quite interesting. Even better is how different these families are, and yet they make it work and become a larger family and town. This story really revolves around three couples that are the ancestors of the characters we know and love from the series.
Clint and Karissa Truman meet and get married just before heading to the settlement, where Clint is basically going to be a hired gun. Clint needs a wife and Karissa is alone in the world with a newborn and decides to take a chance on Clint. I enjoyed watching these two very different people dance around each other, not wanting to fall in love, but learning to trust and care as they embark on an adventure of a lifetime.
Next we meet Patrick and Annie McAllen. Both are pretty young and come from abusive homes. The new town needs a carpenter and Patrick jumps at the chance to get away from his father. The love story between Patrick and Annie was so sweet. They were able to find happiness and purpose when their lives up to that point had been so harsh. I think these two were my favorite couple.
The final couple is Captain Gillian and Daisy Matheson. Gillian is a Texas Ranger and ever since marrying Daisy he’s been on the road for his job. Daisy learns about this settlement and signs them up without Gillian’s knowledge. She sees it as a fresh start for their marriage away from her overwhelming family. It was fun following these two as they get reacquainted and dealing with their young family as well as the other couples in this town. These two pretty much act as the parents in this newfound family/town by taking care of everyone.
Add in a host of secondary characters that just round things out and a new town is born. I adored Shelly, Patrick’s mute brother. And Jessie, a teenage girl rescued from a band of outlaws added another facet to this growing family. For a little more variety, we also got an Italian family who helped get supplies to the town and the decided to make a home there as well. By the end of the story, a trading post housing one person had grown to a booming town.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I was pulled in from page one and didn’t want to put the book down. The book jumps back and forth between these couples as they make their way to Harmony and then gets more intertwined once they all meet and start the town.
As with most series, this book is best read if you’ve read other books in the series as bits and pieces of this history has been dropped in prior books. However, as it is a prequel of sorts (even if it is number 7, release-wise), you don’t really need to have read the series and it does stand alone quite well. I highly recommend this book to fans of the Harmony series, small-town romances and historical westerns.
October 6, 2014
Autry‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Anyone who is a fan of Jodi Thomas’ Harmony series has thought at one point in time….What else could we know about Harmony? What caused the rift between the McAllen’s, Matheson’s and Truman’s? Who really did plant the apple orchard?
This book answers all of those questions and more; it seems as if Thomas could write Harmony books that fill in all the gaps from when Harmony became a town up to current day and each book would be better than before but not as good as the next. I fell into this book…devoured it and wish it would have been longer.
The three families that the first Harmony series introduced are all back in, A Place Called Harmony. The farms and interactions between the men in this novel, set the pace for generations to come, each man in escaping parts of their past that are starting to haunt them. Heading out to help build a new town with hopes of having land to call their own in a few short years. The trials and tribulations of living in the wild unclaimed parts of Texas are thoroughly portrayed and only make the novel more realistic. Wagon trains, outlaws, guns, immigrant settlers searching for work; bullets flying and extremely close calls all add to the complex plot line.
Thomas’s characters are always interesting, charismatic, provoking, strong, and handsome yet touched by life’s’ scares. Clint Truman, Gillian Matheson, and Patrick Allen all different yet working towards a common goal. Settling down, building a town and hopefully maintaining a family along the way. The boys all had vastly different backgrounds when it comes to family but slowly along the journey all reach the same destination, homestead, wife, children, and the ability to keep them safe at the same time. The demons haunting the men’s dreams have found a way to Harmony, the question is can they stay safe? Will the men bond and protect each other? Only to forge ahead in building the town?
I have always loved Jodi Thomas’s writing, I have everything she has written and she continues to impress me each and every time. The character depth she has is amazing, she allows characters to make their appearance in a way that seems so natural. There were parts in this novel, Ms. Thomas would describe her characters and you could feel the piece fall into place. A Place Called Harmony, is a must read for anyone who has read the Harmony Series. If you have not read the Harmony series this book does not have to be read first, but I strongly recommend reading this! It provides great background material into the current day novels, and leaves you waiting for her next installment.
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Anyone who is a fan of Jodi Thomas’ Harmony series has thought at one point in time….What else could we know about Harmony? What caused the rift between the McAllen’s, Matheson’s and Truman’s? Who really did plant the apple orchard?
This book answers all of those questions and more; it seems as if Thomas could write Harmony books that fill in all the gaps from when Harmony became a town up to current day and each book would be better than before but not as good as the next. I fell into this book…devoured it and wish it would have been longer.
The three families that the first Harmony series introduced are all back in, A Place Called Harmony. The farms and interactions between the men in this novel, set the pace for generations to come, each man in escaping parts of their past that are starting to haunt them. Heading out to help build a new town with hopes of having land to call their own in a few short years. The trials and tribulations of living in the wild unclaimed parts of Texas are thoroughly portrayed and only make the novel more realistic. Wagon trains, outlaws, guns, immigrant settlers searching for work; bullets flying and extremely close calls all add to the complex plot line.
Thomas’s characters are always interesting, charismatic, provoking, strong, and handsome yet touched by life’s’ scares. Clint Truman, Gillian Matheson, and Patrick Allen all different yet working towards a common goal. Settling down, building a town and hopefully maintaining a family along the way. The boys all had vastly different backgrounds when it comes to family but slowly along the journey all reach the same destination, homestead, wife, children, and the ability to keep them safe at the same time. The demons haunting the men’s dreams have found a way to Harmony, the question is can they stay safe? Will the men bond and protect each other? Only to forge ahead in building the town?
I have always loved Jodi Thomas’s writing, I have everything she has written and she continues to impress me each and every time. The character depth she has is amazing, she allows characters to make their appearance in a way that seems so natural. There were parts in this novel, Ms. Thomas would describe her characters and you could feel the piece fall into place. A Place Called Harmony, is a must read for anyone who has read the Harmony Series. If you have not read the Harmony series this book does not have to be read first, but I strongly recommend reading this! It provides great background material into the current day novels, and leaves you waiting for her next installment.
October 27, 2014
Another Winner! This newest shows the history of Harmony, Texas--who settled it and why. Three men find the lure of free land too much to resist. The only thing is they have to have a wife. Clint Truman finds one at the women's prison among those being released. She's had a hard life. Patrick McAllen asks a woman who lives near his family's farm. Gillian Matheson is a soldier who has been married for a while except he's never lived with her. There is danger and suspense along with new found love. All three stories touch my heart. It's easy to see the different traits that carry over to future generations. And how Jeremiah Truman got all his apple trees. I loved this book. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
June 30, 2018
This was such a sweet story. I loved it. It was an easy read, and very interesting. Watching Harmony become a town and how all the people became good friends was wonderful. Watching the characters grow and come into their own was great. I especially liked the interaction between Patrick and his brother Shelly, and Patrick and Truman. I laughed out loud a few times because of these characters.
I've never read any Jodi Thomas before, but will continue to read her books, if they are as good as this one. There was just one or two lines at the very end that didn't sit well with me. I'm not sure if they were in jest or serious, so it upset me a bit, but other than that, I really enjoyed it!
I've never read any Jodi Thomas before, but will continue to read her books, if they are as good as this one. There was just one or two lines at the very end that didn't sit well with me. I'm not sure if they were in jest or serious, so it upset me a bit, but other than that, I really enjoyed it!
October 12, 2014
This is a must read for fans of the Harmony series and a great place to start the series for new readers. We all know the McAllen’s. Truman’s and Matheson’s. They were all around from the first contemporary romance book about Harmony. Now we get to see how it all began. In addition we meet the first Wright who arrived in town saying he would undertake any job and so he named his profession.
Like all of Jodi Thomas’ books A Place Called Harmony has great characters and plot presented in a very well-written heart warming story. Fans you don’t want to miss this story.
Like all of Jodi Thomas’ books A Place Called Harmony has great characters and plot presented in a very well-written heart warming story. Fans you don’t want to miss this story.
February 15, 2015
Original story line following three different couples simultaneously. Loved the well-developed likable characters & the unique setting! This was the first book I've read of this author and I now will read more from her because she has an obvious talent for storytelling!
April 1, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/a-... (Jeanie - see below)
http://openbooksociety.com/article/a-... (Una)
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
For everyone who has loved Jodi Thomas’ Harmony series, this feel-good novel will show you how the town of Harmony started and where the name came from. For those of us who have not yet read the series, it is a great introduction!
Harmon Ely purchased a lot of land after the Civil War in the panhandle of Texas, and now hopes to settle a town there. He has offered forty acres and a house to those who are willing to live and work in this dusty burg for two years where his trading post is the only place for many miles around. Those coming also have to be married, with or without children.
The first three couples to move there include Clint Truman and his new bride, Karissa. He is going to be the new sheriff there. His military time has proven him to be a crack shot. Clint and Karissa are two people with separate sets of heartache and secrets that they may never know about the other. His bride also has a new baby boy, whose background is also a secret. As long as he promises to keep her safe and his past doesn’t catch up to them, their marriage will be a success.
The second couple that shows up is Patrick McAllen and his new bride, Annie. They have known each other for years, but never dated or knew much about each other. Patrick had promised her, though, that if he ever had the opportunity to leave town, he would take her with him. A long trip across the rugged, uninhabited parts of Texas certainly helps them learn more about each other. Yet, Patrick has his own past that might gallop across the desert to catch up to him; his past could destroy Annie and many in the new settlement.
The third couple comes in a slightly different manner, and brings the next generation with them. Gillian and Daisy Matheson and their four tornados – sons – are ready to help plant this new town in the Texas panhandle.
Jodi Thomas brings a delightful, feel-good novel of a challenging life in one of the wilder parts of the west in post-Civil War Texas. The characters are an interesting and unlikely lot to start up the town, but with the promise of 40 acres and a home, free and clear, in two years – it is well-worth working toward. It is easy to see how the Harmony series is such a runaway success, as almost every person is so likeable in spite of their rough spots, bumps, and bruises. With the exception of the gunslingers who threaten Clint Truman and any person or thing he is in association with, and the one who would make Patrick pay for his actions, these are people I would enjoy seeing in my neighborhood. Secrets? We all have them. Yet in spite of where they’ve been or what they’ve done, every one of the new settlers are well-rounded individuals who have what it takes to help establish this community.
The plot was well-thought-through and executed. It is a story that catches up the reader from the beginning and keeps one’s attention through the very end, leaving one ready to read the first novel in the Harmony series of the present day. It also leaves the potential for novels to bridge the gap between this historical tale and the present day stories. In any event, I thoroughly enjoyed A Place Called Harmony! I highly recommend it for women of all ages who appreciate romances with a historic setting, western drama, and love scenes that leave most activity to the imagination. From start to finish, it is somewhat unpredictable and completely captivating, with characters that will send one shopping for the rest of the series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
http://openbooksociety.com/article/a-... (Una)
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
For everyone who has loved Jodi Thomas’ Harmony series, this feel-good novel will show you how the town of Harmony started and where the name came from. For those of us who have not yet read the series, it is a great introduction!
Harmon Ely purchased a lot of land after the Civil War in the panhandle of Texas, and now hopes to settle a town there. He has offered forty acres and a house to those who are willing to live and work in this dusty burg for two years where his trading post is the only place for many miles around. Those coming also have to be married, with or without children.
The first three couples to move there include Clint Truman and his new bride, Karissa. He is going to be the new sheriff there. His military time has proven him to be a crack shot. Clint and Karissa are two people with separate sets of heartache and secrets that they may never know about the other. His bride also has a new baby boy, whose background is also a secret. As long as he promises to keep her safe and his past doesn’t catch up to them, their marriage will be a success.
The second couple that shows up is Patrick McAllen and his new bride, Annie. They have known each other for years, but never dated or knew much about each other. Patrick had promised her, though, that if he ever had the opportunity to leave town, he would take her with him. A long trip across the rugged, uninhabited parts of Texas certainly helps them learn more about each other. Yet, Patrick has his own past that might gallop across the desert to catch up to him; his past could destroy Annie and many in the new settlement.
The third couple comes in a slightly different manner, and brings the next generation with them. Gillian and Daisy Matheson and their four tornados – sons – are ready to help plant this new town in the Texas panhandle.
Jodi Thomas brings a delightful, feel-good novel of a challenging life in one of the wilder parts of the west in post-Civil War Texas. The characters are an interesting and unlikely lot to start up the town, but with the promise of 40 acres and a home, free and clear, in two years – it is well-worth working toward. It is easy to see how the Harmony series is such a runaway success, as almost every person is so likeable in spite of their rough spots, bumps, and bruises. With the exception of the gunslingers who threaten Clint Truman and any person or thing he is in association with, and the one who would make Patrick pay for his actions, these are people I would enjoy seeing in my neighborhood. Secrets? We all have them. Yet in spite of where they’ve been or what they’ve done, every one of the new settlers are well-rounded individuals who have what it takes to help establish this community.
The plot was well-thought-through and executed. It is a story that catches up the reader from the beginning and keeps one’s attention through the very end, leaving one ready to read the first novel in the Harmony series of the present day. It also leaves the potential for novels to bridge the gap between this historical tale and the present day stories. In any event, I thoroughly enjoyed A Place Called Harmony! I highly recommend it for women of all ages who appreciate romances with a historic setting, western drama, and love scenes that leave most activity to the imagination. From start to finish, it is somewhat unpredictable and completely captivating, with characters that will send one shopping for the rest of the series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
May 28, 2018
Prequel to the Harmony series. Good to see how the town all began.
October 31, 2014
Fans of the Harmony series by Jodi Thomas will simply love this book. In A Place Called Harmony, Thomas takes readers back to Harmony, Texas before it even existed. This historical novel will captivate readers, taking them back in time to the founding of the town and the ancestors of Thomas' modern day heroes and heroines. Why is the town called Harmony? Who was the first sheriff? What were the challenges and triumphs in building a new community? Readers will find out all this and more in this great new book from a born storyteller.
What I liked:
I love the Harmony series. This is a wonderful small town populated by people who routinely steal the hearts of readers. It's a place you might want to start a family and build a life. The town itself is part of what has made this series so successful. And now readers are getting a real treat with this book. They get to go back to the beginning and see how it all got started. It's a prequel of sorts and would make a wonderful introduction to the series for anyone who hasn't been fortunate enough to read these books yet. A Place Called Harmony is a great opener and fans of the series will fall hard for the pioneering families and their stories and struggles.
Three families given the opportunity to earn 40 acres of land free and clear for constructing and living in a town for two years. In post Civil War Texas, that was probably a dream come true. A realistic endeavor that would provide homes and a legacy. I loved the idea and premise that Thomas gives readers here. The only way to make this work was if the men who came to build the town were married. Not all of these marriages were made in heaven and some of them didn't know each other from Adam. But it worked. In spite of the circumstances and the secrets that surround this group of pioneers or maybe because of them... it works. Thomas gives readers a look at what it took to build the town of Harmony and it was a joy to read about.
The new sheriff has a military background but he's lately been known as a drunk. One young man is running away from a tragic past and a father that won't stop hunting him. One family has four boisterous and obnoxious boys. All of the stories are unique and different. Each set of circumstances and situation added to the western flavor of the book and will keep readers engaged and ready to find out more. Given these are the ancestors of some of their favorite book characters, it had to be good. And Thomas does not disappoint.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the way the Trumen's, Matheson's and McAllen's exemplified the characteristics of their modern day counterparts. The founding families were a joy to read about and Thomas does a remarkable job of leading it all back to the current series. I'm not often fond of books that go back and try to set the scene after I've already read about the people, but this one was remarkably enjoyable.
Bottom Line:
If you are a fan of Jodi Thomas or the Harmony series you have to read this book. If you've never read anything by the author, start with this one. It will make you enjoy the series all the more and get you started with an author who knows how to tell a good story. Thomas has quickly become one of my favorite's. Read this book... it's that good!
What I liked:
I love the Harmony series. This is a wonderful small town populated by people who routinely steal the hearts of readers. It's a place you might want to start a family and build a life. The town itself is part of what has made this series so successful. And now readers are getting a real treat with this book. They get to go back to the beginning and see how it all got started. It's a prequel of sorts and would make a wonderful introduction to the series for anyone who hasn't been fortunate enough to read these books yet. A Place Called Harmony is a great opener and fans of the series will fall hard for the pioneering families and their stories and struggles.
Three families given the opportunity to earn 40 acres of land free and clear for constructing and living in a town for two years. In post Civil War Texas, that was probably a dream come true. A realistic endeavor that would provide homes and a legacy. I loved the idea and premise that Thomas gives readers here. The only way to make this work was if the men who came to build the town were married. Not all of these marriages were made in heaven and some of them didn't know each other from Adam. But it worked. In spite of the circumstances and the secrets that surround this group of pioneers or maybe because of them... it works. Thomas gives readers a look at what it took to build the town of Harmony and it was a joy to read about.
The new sheriff has a military background but he's lately been known as a drunk. One young man is running away from a tragic past and a father that won't stop hunting him. One family has four boisterous and obnoxious boys. All of the stories are unique and different. Each set of circumstances and situation added to the western flavor of the book and will keep readers engaged and ready to find out more. Given these are the ancestors of some of their favorite book characters, it had to be good. And Thomas does not disappoint.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the way the Trumen's, Matheson's and McAllen's exemplified the characteristics of their modern day counterparts. The founding families were a joy to read about and Thomas does a remarkable job of leading it all back to the current series. I'm not often fond of books that go back and try to set the scene after I've already read about the people, but this one was remarkably enjoyable.
Bottom Line:
If you are a fan of Jodi Thomas or the Harmony series you have to read this book. If you've never read anything by the author, start with this one. It will make you enjoy the series all the more and get you started with an author who knows how to tell a good story. Thomas has quickly become one of my favorite's. Read this book... it's that good!
August 18, 2014
Harmon Ely has a dream. His little trading post sits in the middle of nowhere Texas, and he’s been robbed, had the place burned to the ground, and still he keeps dreaming. Someday, Harmon wants a town built around his post where he can add to the sign he has made – Population 1, and one dog. Harmon puts out the word that he wants only married men to come help make this a community.
Clint Truman is a man with no future after losing his wife and two daughters to sickness. He’s spent the post war years since their deaths either drunk or in trouble of some kind. But Sheriff Lightstone of Huntsville sees something in Truman that others don’t, and he’s trying to give him the future Clint thinks is lost. The sheriff is friends with Harmon and knows that in order to build a town, Harmon needs families. Offering Truman a way out of his troubles, he convinces him to take as his wife a woman just released from jail, a woman with a newborn baby and her own pile of pain. Figuring that somehow these two can help each other, the sheriff is surprised that Truman goes along with the plan.
Captain Gillian Matheson, dedicated to his army career, but still in love with his wife, gets a letter from her telling him to join her at a trading post in March, nothing else. Worried that something is wrong with her or their sons, the captain sets off to find out. His guilt at leaving her for so long at her family’s farm and not being a father to his two sons weighs heavily on him. His journey will not be alone, though, for he has rescued a young girl from a band of outlaws, and he’s planning on leaving her at a mission along the way. All does not go well, however, when the outlaws find them. Gillian is shot, and he only has the girl, Jessie, to keep him alive and get them to the trading post.
Bullied by his irrational father since childhood, Patrick McAllen plots to do what his older brothers did, leave. His mute brother,Shelly, helps Patrick and his neighbor, Annie, leave Galveston. When Patrick and Annie get married, they outfit a wagon and set off for Harmon Ely’s trading post. Patrick is young, but he’s got carpentry skills, and a growing love for his young wife. If only he could shake off the thought that his father will track him down and kill him. The man nearly beat Patrick to death a few years before, and the boy knows that by leaving home, he has enraged his father.
And so begins the town of Harmony. A PLACE CALLED HARMONY sets the stage for the beautifully written Harmony novels that depict the three families of Truman, Matheson, and McAllen. Each husband has his own personal issues to come to terms with, but the growing friendships and struggles of daily life take precedence, making their past troubles seem less important. The wives are sources of strength and wonder, and Harmon gleefully adds to his growing population sign, hiding his own sadness.
I’ve loved the Harmony series, every one of them, and this prequel is as lovingly presented. If readers haven’t read the entire series, A PLACE CALLED HARMONY is a great place to start. Another Perfect 10 for Jodi Thomas.
October 15, 2014
Title: A Place Called Harmony
Author: Jodi Thomas
Publisher: Berkley
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"A Place Called Harmony" by Jodi Thomas
Book Description...
"New York Times bestselling author Jodi Thomas has captivated America with her novels set in the
small town of Harmony, Texas. Now she tells the story of the three hard-luck men who first settled the town, a place where last chances and long-awaited dreams collide…
Desperate to escape his overbearing father, Patrick McAllen disappears with his bride, heading north to build a new town—discovering strength, honor and true love along the way.
After drinking away the grief from his family’s death, Clint Truman avoids jail by taking a job in North Texas and settling down with a woman he vows to protect but never love—until her quiet compassion slowly breaks his hardened heart wide open…
All Gillian Matheson has ever known is Army life, leaving his true love to be a part-time spouse. But when a wounded Gillian returns home to find her desperately fighting to save their marriage, he’s determined to become the husband she deserves.
Amidst storms, outlaws, and unwelcome relatives, the three couples band together to build a town—and form a bond that breathes life into the place that will forever be called Harmony."
What I liked about the novel....
This was a well written fabulous American pioneer story of the history of Harmony, Texas told by this author. This was definitely a story that is brought to life showing all the emotions... loving, sad, happy and even awed from some of all of it. You will be presented a story that makes it seem as if you are right there in the midst of it all through the pain and heart ache that many of these characters have gone through. I found this novel very interesting and how this author was able to give us the 'Harmony' series was simply amazing giving us the characters backgrounds from many of her previous series. From Harmon Ely, to Clint Truman, to Patrick McAllen and then on to Captain Gillian Matteson you will get a complete romantic adventure story that will keep you turning the pages until the end.
What I especially liked about "A Place Called Harmony"...
If you are looking for a good western historical romance you have come to the right place because "A Place Called Harmony" will give it to you....a simply good read By the time you get to the end of this story there will be an excerpt from the next Harmony series: 'One True Heart' that is scheduled to come out April, 2015 and I am sure the readers will be looking for this good read.
Author: Jodi Thomas
Publisher: Berkley
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"A Place Called Harmony" by Jodi Thomas
Book Description...
"New York Times bestselling author Jodi Thomas has captivated America with her novels set in the
small town of Harmony, Texas. Now she tells the story of the three hard-luck men who first settled the town, a place where last chances and long-awaited dreams collide…
Desperate to escape his overbearing father, Patrick McAllen disappears with his bride, heading north to build a new town—discovering strength, honor and true love along the way.
After drinking away the grief from his family’s death, Clint Truman avoids jail by taking a job in North Texas and settling down with a woman he vows to protect but never love—until her quiet compassion slowly breaks his hardened heart wide open…
All Gillian Matheson has ever known is Army life, leaving his true love to be a part-time spouse. But when a wounded Gillian returns home to find her desperately fighting to save their marriage, he’s determined to become the husband she deserves.
Amidst storms, outlaws, and unwelcome relatives, the three couples band together to build a town—and form a bond that breathes life into the place that will forever be called Harmony."
What I liked about the novel....
This was a well written fabulous American pioneer story of the history of Harmony, Texas told by this author. This was definitely a story that is brought to life showing all the emotions... loving, sad, happy and even awed from some of all of it. You will be presented a story that makes it seem as if you are right there in the midst of it all through the pain and heart ache that many of these characters have gone through. I found this novel very interesting and how this author was able to give us the 'Harmony' series was simply amazing giving us the characters backgrounds from many of her previous series. From Harmon Ely, to Clint Truman, to Patrick McAllen and then on to Captain Gillian Matteson you will get a complete romantic adventure story that will keep you turning the pages until the end.
What I especially liked about "A Place Called Harmony"...
If you are looking for a good western historical romance you have come to the right place because "A Place Called Harmony" will give it to you....a simply good read By the time you get to the end of this story there will be an excerpt from the next Harmony series: 'One True Heart' that is scheduled to come out April, 2015 and I am sure the readers will be looking for this good read.
October 14, 2014
Harmon Ely had a dream. A dream to establish his own town smack dab in the middle of Texas but first, he had to find the right men and women to help make his dream a reality. Forty acres and a home is his offer to anyone brave enough to come settle in this forsaken land. All they need to bring is their willingness to work… and a wife.
Three men take him up on his offer-Patrick McAllen, Clint Truman, and Gillian Matheson. Patrick McAllen, the youngest son of an abusive religious leader, sneaks out of his father’s home in the middle of the night with his best friend and soon to be wife, Anne Spencer, and heads towards Ely’s trading post. A master carpenter, Patrick has no doubts he can be an asset to the town, but Patrick knows his father will be coming for him and this time escape may not possible.
Clint Truman, a former Texas Ranger, has already buried one family and is slowly following them into an early grave one drink at a time. His best friend, Sheriff Lightstone, knows he has only one chance to save Clint from himself and tells him of Ely’s offer. Clint doesn’t want another wife but when his friend takes him to meet a young mother whose situation in-flames Clint’s protective nature, Clint agrees to marry her and help her raise her newborn son if she is willing to trust him and help build a new life for the three of them.
Captain Gillian Matheson has no idea why his wife Daisy has insisted he come meet her and their sons at Harmon’s Ely’s Trading Post but he fears the worse. Married for five years, Gillian and his wife has spent more time apart then together as he refused to leave the Army and she refused to leave her family and follow him from post to post. Commissioned to take a young girl to safety before heading to meet his wife, Gillian is injured and wakes to find himself at the trading post with a parcel of strangers and a wife with some interesting news.
Jodi Thomas’s small town contemporary romance series, Harmony, just keeps getting better and better with each new installment. A tried and true contemporary with a strong ongoing arc written in an entertaining conversational “soap opera” style. After seven books, I can honestly say my attention hasn’t even begun to falter.
Read the rest of my review at Smexy Books.
Three men take him up on his offer-Patrick McAllen, Clint Truman, and Gillian Matheson. Patrick McAllen, the youngest son of an abusive religious leader, sneaks out of his father’s home in the middle of the night with his best friend and soon to be wife, Anne Spencer, and heads towards Ely’s trading post. A master carpenter, Patrick has no doubts he can be an asset to the town, but Patrick knows his father will be coming for him and this time escape may not possible.
Clint Truman, a former Texas Ranger, has already buried one family and is slowly following them into an early grave one drink at a time. His best friend, Sheriff Lightstone, knows he has only one chance to save Clint from himself and tells him of Ely’s offer. Clint doesn’t want another wife but when his friend takes him to meet a young mother whose situation in-flames Clint’s protective nature, Clint agrees to marry her and help her raise her newborn son if she is willing to trust him and help build a new life for the three of them.
Captain Gillian Matheson has no idea why his wife Daisy has insisted he come meet her and their sons at Harmon’s Ely’s Trading Post but he fears the worse. Married for five years, Gillian and his wife has spent more time apart then together as he refused to leave the Army and she refused to leave her family and follow him from post to post. Commissioned to take a young girl to safety before heading to meet his wife, Gillian is injured and wakes to find himself at the trading post with a parcel of strangers and a wife with some interesting news.
Jodi Thomas’s small town contemporary romance series, Harmony, just keeps getting better and better with each new installment. A tried and true contemporary with a strong ongoing arc written in an entertaining conversational “soap opera” style. After seven books, I can honestly say my attention hasn’t even begun to falter.
Read the rest of my review at Smexy Books.
October 7, 2014
A Place Called Harmony is a must read for fans of Jodi Thomas and her Harmony series. I loved it. It was fun to see how the place where her modern-day series takes place got its start. The ancestors of the main characters of the Harmony series helped to build the town.
The Trumans, McAllens and the Mathesons meet after taking a man up on his offer to help build a town. We see them from the beginning and how they grow to be friends for life. Not only that, we see how each man meets his wife and begins a new journey together. I loved all three stories. These are good people who’ve survived tragedies and still trust that life can get better with the mates they’ve been fortunate enough to find.
A Place Called Harmony is a romantic adventure. It’s truly an American pioneer story and I recommend it. Included at the end is an excerpt from the next book in the Harmony series: One True Heart. It will be out in April 2015. I can’t wait to read it!
*I received a review copy in exchange for my opinion.
The Trumans, McAllens and the Mathesons meet after taking a man up on his offer to help build a town. We see them from the beginning and how they grow to be friends for life. Not only that, we see how each man meets his wife and begins a new journey together. I loved all three stories. These are good people who’ve survived tragedies and still trust that life can get better with the mates they’ve been fortunate enough to find.
A Place Called Harmony is a romantic adventure. It’s truly an American pioneer story and I recommend it. Included at the end is an excerpt from the next book in the Harmony series: One True Heart. It will be out in April 2015. I can’t wait to read it!
*I received a review copy in exchange for my opinion.
October 3, 2014
A PLACE CALLED HARMONY by Jodi Thomas is a compelling Historical Romance. #7 in the "Harmony Novel" series, but can be read as a stand alone. I would recommend reading this series, just because it's an awesome series.
An epic tale of love, suspense, and Texas humor. What a compelling, captivating tale, one in which you will not want to put down. I love this series. Ms. Thomas is a consummate storyteller. You can NEVER go wrong with a Jodi Thomas' tale.
Fast paced, tale of suspense, Texas romance, with charismatic characters and a well written storyline. A must read for any reader, not just Historical Romance readers.
*Received for an honest review from the publisher and/or author*
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: Mild
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
An epic tale of love, suspense, and Texas humor. What a compelling, captivating tale, one in which you will not want to put down. I love this series. Ms. Thomas is a consummate storyteller. You can NEVER go wrong with a Jodi Thomas' tale.
Fast paced, tale of suspense, Texas romance, with charismatic characters and a well written storyline. A must read for any reader, not just Historical Romance readers.
*Received for an honest review from the publisher and/or author*
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: Mild
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
November 1, 2016
This is technically a prequel to the Harmony series but it reads fine as a stand alone if you don't like contemporary romances and don't want to read the later books. This book is set in frontier Texas.
I liked all the characters in this book. My favorites were Clint Truman and his "dear"
I thought it was very touching with all the romances. Very enjoyable story.
I liked all the characters in this book. My favorites were Clint Truman and his "dear"
I thought it was very touching with all the romances. Very enjoyable story.
October 2, 2017
A good story about one man's dream of building a town in north Texas. How he got three good men and their wives to come and start taking the necessary steps to band together and build a town. The interaction between the strangers that turned into lasting friendships was just what was needed in the new town of Harmony.
February 5, 2018
I'm finding another favorite author here. I love the way she plots out her stories; I love the old West stories. This one in particular about three families and an older man who decide to build their own town in the western states. Her writing is smooth and flows well and she develops characters that grow their love for each other in such a pure way.
January 10, 2019
Challenge: RRRCs January 2019 - "J" for January in author's name (1); and Create Your Own Readathon/Stacking the Series/Steeped in Books - Primary list/Level 10/Book 9. Set in Texas, you will still want to rise up singing "Oh, What a Beautiful Morning!". Building a town, a good town, from the ground up. So fulfilling! Read this prequel by itself or at any time while reading the Harmony series.
August 26, 2017
Jodi Thomas has a win with the Harmony series
I've been hooked from the first book. This series will have you falling in love with not just the characters but the state of Texas. The history in this book hooked me as much as the story. Great series, great writing.
I've been hooked from the first book. This series will have you falling in love with not just the characters but the state of Texas. The history in this book hooked me as much as the story. Great series, great writing.
March 31, 2021
Amazing. So much better than I could have imagined and I loved all the Harmony books. the story of the founding fathers was just too good to put down.
June 27, 2017
Jodi Thomas is a wonderful writer. Her characters come to life in such interesting ways. This makes me want to start the hamony series over.
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