A Promise Kept

Buckeye Promises #1

by Cara C. Putman

A heartwarming WWII historical from award-winning author Cara Putman:

Can new love endure heartbreak?

Josie Wilson’s newlywed life is perfect—until her hopes and dreams are shattered by a miscarriage. She’s not sure her wounded heart will ever heal. Then Art asks her to open their home to a distant cousin who’s been evacuated from England. Will the child open her heart? Or will she remain closed off to the prospect of future pain?

Art Wilson adores his bride, but he never anticipated how challenging marriage could be. When grief over the baby they’ve lost forms a chasm between him and his new wife, he wonders if he has made a horrible mistake. Why can’t Josie support him and understand his long hours are necessary as the industry is reeling in the early days of World War II?

Will the ravages of war and personal grief tear Josie and Art apart, or will they keep the promises made to each other on their wedding day?

Click “send a free sample” and start reading now!

Other books in this series:
Canteen Dreams
Sandhill Dreams
Captive Dreams
A Promise Born
A Promise Forged

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Romance, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian

176 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Cara C. Putman lives in Indiana with her husband and four children. She is a clinical assistant professor in law and ethics at Purdue University's School of Business. She has loved reading and writing from a young age and now realizes it was all training for writing books. She loves bringing history and legal romantic suspense to life.

An honors graduate of the University of Nebraska, George Mason University School of Law, and Krannert School of Management, Cara left small town Nebraska and headed to Washington, D.C., to launch her career in public policy.

Cara is an author chasing hard after God as she lives a crazy life. She invites you to join her on that journey. She's currently writing her 41st book with more on the way. Please check out her website to learn more about her books and read first chapters.

Reviews

[Andrea Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

Now this is how you write newlyweds! A tad bit of light innuendo, which I would expect from freshly-married young folks (trust me, y’all; this author handled this beautifully), but keeping chaste about what’s printed on the page. Josie and Art were obviously in love with each other, but it didn’t feel like I was experiencing the intimate details of the honeymoon phase of their marriage, thankfully.

The sad portions of this book deal with things I cannot reveal due to spoilers. The author’s own experience comes into play, as she shares in the letter to the reader after the final chapter. I think she handled the difficult questions Josie and Art faced with grace and compassion. My heart ached both for the characters in the story and Mrs. Putman herself. I wish I could fully express how deeply I felt their pain. I might not have gone through the exact same thing, but I’ve experienced my own heartaches, so I know how deep that pain can go and how hard it is to climb back out of it. I know how difficult it is to trust God when I don’t understand the whys of the scenarios I’ve encountered. It’s brutal. It’s devastating. It’s clear across the country from “easy.” My heart aches at the losses these characters and this author have suffered. My prayers are with Mrs. Putman, for even now the pain might rear its hideous head.

I was unaware of the child refugees that were sent out of England as WWII ramped up. That’s one thing I love about a Putman story: I’m always going to learn something. Thanks to her wonderful and thorough research, she teaches me as she entertains me. Love it! The varying emotions Casandra went through were expertly showcased, drawing my emotions out and further investing my heart into this story. She was a delight, and I cherished getting to know her. I hope she makes another appearance in books two and three of the Buckeye Promises series.

Another five-star book from Mrs. Cara Putman, but I shouldn’t be surprised. Fans of Kim Vogel Sawyer and Carrie Turansky will appreciate the sweet and hopeful tones with which Mrs. Putman pens her tales. This story is an exquisite example of that.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pre World War 2 romance that was so well done showing the growth and commitment between Josephine and Art Miller as their marriage developed as a couple without any of the physical details. Enjoyable read.

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read as part of the Ohio Brides omnibus.

This was a nice historical fiction/Christian romance set on the eve of America’s involvement in WWII. I liked that this book began with the couple’s wedding and we followed them through their first year of marriage, a nice change from the traditional format these short romance novels tend to follow. An enjoyable story but there were some real life hard issues covered, definitely brought a tear to my eye a time or two. I do like that there are two more books involving the same family since family was a major theme.

TW miscarriage

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute early 1940’s story. I liked the how Josie and Art cared for the little girl displaced from the war in England. Sweet quick and easy read/listen.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1940 newlyweds Josie and Art Wilson moved away from family in Dayton, Ohio to Cincinnati. There they experienced the ups and downs of married life, including a miscarriage and all the disappointment that that entails. Art is navigating a new job, and what it could mean if the US entered World War II.
Then the unexpected offer comes to house a war child from Britain, who is a cousin of Art’s. This book explores, early married life, grief, and the challenge of welcoming an eight-year-old girl into their family. It also shows how a company has to decide how to help the war effort and change focus.
The topics were handled with empathy and serious thought. I appreciated the solid faith thread, and loved the authentic portrayal of the characters.
*I purchased this title from Amazon. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Shreedevi Gurumurty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can new love endure heartbreak?Josie Wilson’s newlywed life is perfect—until her hopes and dreams are shattered by a miscarriage. She’s not sure her wounded heart will ever heal. Then Art asks her to open their home to a distant cousin who’s been evacuated from England. Will the child open her heart? Or will she remain closed off to the prospect of future pain?Art Wilson adores his bride, but he never anticipated how challenging marriage could be. When grief over the baby they’ve lost forms a chasm between him and his new wife, he wonders if he has made a horrible mistake. Why can’t Josie support him and understand his long hours are necessary as the industry is reeling in the early days of World War II?Will the ravages of war and personal grief tear Josie and Art apart, or will they keep the promises made to each other on their wedding day?Evacuation was the biggest cause of disruption to children’s lives. The government’s voluntary evacuation scheme saw millions of children in Britain sent to places of safety for fear of German bombing. Many families made their own arrangements to evacuate their children to friends and family in the country or overseas.Most traveled by train with their schools and went to live with foster parents. Evacuation was an adventure for some who had never seen the countryside, but others were homesick and unhappy.Family life remained disrupted for many months, and sometimes longer. A war economy or wartime economy is the set of contingencies undertaken by a modern state to mobilize its economy for war production. Philippe Le Billon describes a war economy as a "system of producing, mobilizing and allocating resources to sustain the violence." Approaches to the reconfiguration of the economy differ from country to country.War is often used as a last ditch effort to prevent deteriorating economic conditions or currency crises, particularly by expanding services and employment in the military, and by simultaneously depopulating segments of the population to free up resources and restore the economic and social order.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

another glimpse into life on the Homefront

This book gives us another glimpse into life on the Homefront with the Miller family as WWII is winding up and America is assisting her European allies, but has not officially entered the war. This book deals with several important, thought provoking, and challenging topics. First, Josie and Art are living in the bliss of their new marriage when painful times come. To avoid spoiling the story, I will leave it at that, but suffice it to say the things shared here are good food for thought. I sure appreciated their sweet neighbor, Doris, who kept on showing up offering love, encouragement, and Truth. Second, I had heard rumors that children were shipped from Great Britain to America to try to protect them during the horrible bombings and attacks by Germany on English soil. This book shares a glimpse into what life would have been like for those children and for those who graciously harbored them for the duration. Third, this story shared the normal everyday challenges that Art and Josie faced as people - dealing with temptations, learning to turn to God for their comfort, and learning to communicate and lean on each other in their marriage. I appreciated this book for the wealth of learning the author bestowed upon the reader about dealing with trials, loss, and difficulties. I also appreciate, as a reader, seeing this side of the Miller family and gaining a glimpse into how Josie’s family fits into the larger family story we have already seen in the series. I highly recommend this book.

[Joleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Last book in this series, although, chronologically it was the first.

1939-1940 Cincinnati

Josie and Art Wilson - Newlyweds
Cassandra Wilson - 8 year old distant cousin True to the timeframe, Josie was a dutiful and loving homemaker concerned with her home, meals and her husband's happiness.

Art was an accountant just trying to make ends meet, also to make his wife happy.

Cassandra was sent to America from London to the home of cousins she never met for her safety while Germany bombed London.

Basically this story was centered around an unfortunate incident in this small family that caused a great deal of grief. The family coped and welcomed a child who needed their love and comfort.

Sadly I found this a bit boring, even though it was well written. Just everyday home-life: meals, outings and Art's work-life, more or less, with one sad event that seemed to encompass a great deal of the story.

[ArynTheLibraryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I pulled this "blind' from my kindle paperwhite shelf. No clue what it was about. It was sweet, and certainly has some great quotes.

"She determined to control what she could - her attitude. She'd start there and hope it spread throughout the apartment." When you're surrounded by hurt/fearful people, you can choose to let it get to you, or try to influence the atmosphere for good. I'm glad Josie tried!

I enjoyed the spiritual growth that happened through the hardships that they faced.

Probably because I was expecting a suspense drama, and didn't get one, it was not my favorite, but I would still like to read more by this author.

I'm sure I got this off a sale or freebie opportunity a while back, and have chosen to review it here. all thoughts are my own.

[Caryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Josie Wilson is devastated by a miscarriage. Her journey through this dark night of the soul is one many women encounter.

Art Wilson adores his bride. He's also devastated by the miscarriage. In the midst of grieving, he's also facing challenges at his place of employment.

A Promise Kept gracefully gives us a glimpse into the shattered lives of those who have experienced a miscarriage. I so appreciated the spiritual truths woven throughout this story. It's a very thought-provoking read.

Recommend to those who enjoy inspirational, historical fiction.

I borrowed a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touching Story!

This book about newly married couple starting out together early in World War II tugged at the heart strings. Josie and Art experienced experienced both joys and sorrows as they navigated their first year of marriage, including the topic of miscarriage which the author handled beautifully and with great sensitivity. It was interesting to read about the program of taking in evacuees from war zones, as this played a significant role in the couple's life. This was an inspiring and uplifting read!

[Shirley McAllister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joys and sorrows

Josie and Art are married and soon look forward to the birth of their first child. This, however, is not to be. After the miscarriage a distant relative in England asks them to take in their 8 year old daughter to keep her safe from the bombings as war has began with Germany. Art has his own troubles at work. Only the guidance of God and faith can help this young couple. Another great book easy to read and inspirational.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Read

This novel was a light read, and an enjoyable trip back to the World War II era. However, I felt like a lot of elements were left hanging in the final chapter and suspect that’s so that you’ll go get the next book? I was left wanting just a few more chapters to tie up loose ends. Still rating it well because I was enjoying it and wanted to read more.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful page turner

I enjoyed this book from cover to cover! It dealt with newlyweds and loss and war and family and I loved the storyline and characters. I loved how the author used scripture and turning to God for help!

[Kathleen Bruner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging story!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The characters were engaging and I felt empathy for each of them at different times. The promises they kept were as important as their love for each other.

[Pianosue · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a pure romance book set back in the 30-40's. It also deals with the loss of miscarriage and the feelings of the children who came to America from Britain to escape the war.
A good, light read.

[Kim Paulus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love and Unplanned Adventures

Another story that I love reading. Can't wait to read more by Cara C. Putman. Marriage, WWII looming and unexpected emotions all included in this story.

[Ckainer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not much of romance but does a decent job of taking the reader through the heartache of miscarriage. A heartache I know all too well 3 times over. Just a simple women’s faith fiction story.

[Eileeng · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn't love this story. I felt the characters weren't developed enough.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

As newlyweds we all have sunny hopes for a picture-perfect future until something can cause our hearts to be shattered. Art and Josie Wilson face many challenges. Will they be able to keep the promises they made to each other on their wedding day? Author Cara Putman has written a story with challenges that many couples face. She writes with inspiration that brighter; hopeful days are ahead. Loved each book in this series!

[Janna Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unlike most romances that end with a wedding, this book opens with the wedding and we then watch Art and Josie as they go through the first full year of marriage, good and bad. First there is moving away from the family in order to get a good job, then there is tragedy. If you have ever had a miscarriage, or maybe even more important, if you know someone that has but you don't know what to say, then this book is a gift. It will give you insight into what someone going through a miscarriage might be thinking and even the difference between how a man and a woman differ in their reaction to how they handle the miscarriage. This book also deals with life in Ohio during WWII, before the US enters the war, but when children from London were being sent over here to live. Art and Josie take in one of Art's distant cousins and they have to adjust to having an 8 year old when they are newlyweds. All in all this book is a good portrayl of how life is never perfect, its how we react that determines happiness or misery. So refreshing to read a book that didn't follow the usual romance recipe!

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

A PROMISE KEPT is the story of Katherine's (Kat in a Promise Forged) big sister. A PROMISE KEPT is more women's fiction than it is romance, as Josie and Art are married throughout the book and the story is more about how she adjusts to married life and how she wants children and how she supports or not her husband in a new job, a new home, a new city, away from family.



I liked the way Josie kept in contact with her family. I wish Art would've done the same for his. As a mother of a married son I know how much it hurts when they go the extra mile for her family but you don't have a clue what is happening in your son's life. So I felt really sorry for Art's mom. His grandfather, however, seemed to be very sharp and kept his eye on his family and I love the way this book ended with grandfather's magic touch.



This isn't a romance nor romantic suspense, but it is women's fiction.



I received a copy free and have no obligation to review.

[Ruthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

To begin, I guess I was thinking it was historical romance. I read the blurb and liked with it said. With that being said, I am not disappointed. When I started reading it, the couple reminded me of a relationship I used to have...or thought I had. But even after mine died, I still liked the book. I like how the couple coped together about the changes in their lives. To me is about true love and how love can get you through any circumstances your way.

[Robin Hatcher · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet newlywed romance, this young couple faced plenty of challenges in their first year of marriage. Unlike the other two books in the Buckeye Promises series, this story takes place before America entered WWII so there was never the same feeling about the war.

[Dianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet, easy read. Ending was more like a too be continued.

[Phyllis C · Rating 1 out of 5]

Seemed like a child's book.

[Julie Christianson · Rating 4 out of 5]

very good

[Staciy Wilson Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Want More!

I am hoping for their story to continue in other books. Maybe in the background of Kat or Mark's story?

[Teresa Merriman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun read.