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The Gentrys of Paradise #1
For the Brave
1869 – Matthew Gentry joined the Confederate Army at eighteen years of age after an argument with his father, leaving Paradise, his Virginia home and famed horse breeding stables, for the fields of Gettysburg. Having survived the War Between the States, Gentry is haunted by the violence and inhumanity of the war. He continues to roam the country long after the conflict is over, finding solace in the arms of soiled doves and at the bottom of whiskey bottles. Finally traveling home after learning of a family tragedy, he nearly loses his life in a spring-flooded riverbed.
Annie Campbell, lone survivor of her family, lives at a remote farm near the North River, raising pigs and trying to grow enough to feed herself, and to stay out of the cross hairs of the Thurmans, violent men who run the town of Bridgewater. Annie’s secrets threaten her safety, even as she rescues and nurses Matthew Gentry.
Matthew knows he must return to Paradise, to grieve with his family. Will his heart lead him back to Bridgewater and Annie Campbell?
Annie Campbell, lone survivor of her family, lives at a remote farm near the North River, raising pigs and trying to grow enough to feed herself, and to stay out of the cross hairs of the Thurmans, violent men who run the town of Bridgewater. Annie’s secrets threaten her safety, even as she rescues and nurses Matthew Gentry.
Matthew knows he must return to Paradise, to grieve with his family. Will his heart lead him back to Bridgewater and Annie Campbell?
228 pages, ebook
First published May 16, 2017
About the author
Holly Bush
26 books721 followers“Love always has something to say. Sometimes it shouts from the highest hill, and sometimes it whispers so softly one must listen closely to hear. Do not turn away. It is a rare and precious commodity. Treasure it.” The Gentrys of Paradise
Holly's newest series is a historical mystery set in Baltimore in 1867, The Browns of Butcher's Hill. The first book is available called Kidnapped. Blackmailed releases in August of 2025 and Murdered in November of 2025.
Holly's historical romances are set in the US during the turbulent and transformative years of the late 1800’s.
The Thompsons of Locust Street, Philadelphia, chronicles five siblings from Scotland with some danger and mystery surrounding their move to America. The series order is The Bachelor's Bride, The Bareknuckle Groom, The Professor's Lady, and The Captain's Woman. The final book in the series will release in 2024.
The Gentrys of Paradise begins with the novella Into the Evermore where readers meet Virginia horse breeders, Eleanor and Beauregard Gentry. The following books feature their children, Adam, Matthew, and Olivia in For the Brave, For This Moment, and For Her Honor.
The Crawford Family Series following the fortunes of the three Boston born Crawford sisters and includes Train Station Bride, Contract to Wed, Her Safe Harbor, and companion novella, The Maid’s Quarters.
Cross the Ocean and Charming the Duke are both British set Victorian romances. Fan favorites stand-alone historical romance novels include Romancing Olive and Reconstructing Jackson. Holly's books are described as ‘emotional, with heartfelt, sexy romance.’
She also writes General Fiction under the name of Hollis Bush.
Holly makes her home with her husband, one happy Labrador Retriever, a clever Jack Russell rescued from the pound, and two difficult cats in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Connect with Holly at www.hollybushbooks.com, on Twitter @hollybushbooks, and on Facebook at Holly Bush. Follow Holly on her Amazon author page to receive new release updates and on BookBub to check out her reviews and get sale information.
Holly's newest series is a historical mystery set in Baltimore in 1867, The Browns of Butcher's Hill. The first book is available called Kidnapped. Blackmailed releases in August of 2025 and Murdered in November of 2025.
Holly's historical romances are set in the US during the turbulent and transformative years of the late 1800’s.
The Thompsons of Locust Street, Philadelphia, chronicles five siblings from Scotland with some danger and mystery surrounding their move to America. The series order is The Bachelor's Bride, The Bareknuckle Groom, The Professor's Lady, and The Captain's Woman. The final book in the series will release in 2024.
The Gentrys of Paradise begins with the novella Into the Evermore where readers meet Virginia horse breeders, Eleanor and Beauregard Gentry. The following books feature their children, Adam, Matthew, and Olivia in For the Brave, For This Moment, and For Her Honor.
The Crawford Family Series following the fortunes of the three Boston born Crawford sisters and includes Train Station Bride, Contract to Wed, Her Safe Harbor, and companion novella, The Maid’s Quarters.
Cross the Ocean and Charming the Duke are both British set Victorian romances. Fan favorites stand-alone historical romance novels include Romancing Olive and Reconstructing Jackson. Holly's books are described as ‘emotional, with heartfelt, sexy romance.’
She also writes General Fiction under the name of Hollis Bush.
Holly makes her home with her husband, one happy Labrador Retriever, a clever Jack Russell rescued from the pound, and two difficult cats in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Connect with Holly at www.hollybushbooks.com, on Twitter @hollybushbooks, and on Facebook at Holly Bush. Follow Holly on her Amazon author page to receive new release updates and on BookBub to check out her reviews and get sale information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 20, 2017
Matthew Gentry left home when he was eighteen after arguing with his father and joined the army but now his father has died and he must return home. On the way home Matthew and his family's emissary get injured and are discovered by Annie Campbell who rescues them and nurses them back to health. Annie is the only one left in her family and is detested by most people in town. She waits uneasily for something to happen to her and Matthew isn't sure what she is afraid of. He tries to convince her to come home with him when he's better but Annie isn't ready to give up her family home and land just yet.
I found this book to be surprisingly good. I don't really expect much from the writing when I read romance but the writing was great and I enjoyed how much depth was given to both Annie and Matthew. The love scenes weren't cheesy either which I appreciated, and the character's relationship seemed to grow naturally and the progression was timed in a way that felt realistic. The action at the climax was really great and I almost died from the suspense honestly. I was sitting grimacing while reading when Annie stays back and the whole time I was like oh god she's going to die. I really enjoyed this and think I'll read more historical romance in the future.
I found this book to be surprisingly good. I don't really expect much from the writing when I read romance but the writing was great and I enjoyed how much depth was given to both Annie and Matthew. The love scenes weren't cheesy either which I appreciated, and the character's relationship seemed to grow naturally and the progression was timed in a way that felt realistic. The action at the climax was really great and I almost died from the suspense honestly. I was sitting grimacing while reading when Annie stays back and the whole time I was like oh god she's going to die. I really enjoyed this and think I'll read more historical romance in the future.
April 2, 2017
Matthew (Matt) Gentry left home at 18-years old, angry with his father, and promptly joined the Confederate Army. Six years later, the war is over and a disillusioned Matt has drifted aimlessly for two years through a haze of whiskey and women until he's called home. However, on the return, he and his family's emissary get caught in the aftermath of rains and a swollen river and are discovered near death by Annie Campbell. She's living alone in the outskirts of Bridgewater, Virginia, a tragic figure in her own right and her life is forever altered when she decides to come to Matt's aid.
I was riveted by this story from the onset. On the surface, Matt seemed self indulgent and adrift. As his story is revealed, I found him to be a man of substance, tormented by the ravages of war. Annie's story is a bit murkier but the tension begins the moment she lands on the page. She's tough and resourceful but I feared for her at just about every moment, with absolute justification. I was just as enthralled with her developing relationship with Matt.
Annie and Matt's journeys, together and individually, were compelling. The historical backdrop also offered unique insights into post-war realities and its toll on the men who served on both sides. Bush doesn't try to lighten the situations for purposes of a happy ending, which is her signature. I had reason to be fearful throughout the story and it just made it an outstanding tale.
I loved this story and am excited about this series. The introductory novella (see the story Into the Evermore in the anthology Christmas in America) set this one up perfectly. While it helped to introduce Matt's parents, it's not essential to be read before this one. However, I highly recommend it before or after as it is really, really good. 4.5 stars
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
I was riveted by this story from the onset. On the surface, Matt seemed self indulgent and adrift. As his story is revealed, I found him to be a man of substance, tormented by the ravages of war. Annie's story is a bit murkier but the tension begins the moment she lands on the page. She's tough and resourceful but I feared for her at just about every moment, with absolute justification. I was just as enthralled with her developing relationship with Matt.
Annie and Matt's journeys, together and individually, were compelling. The historical backdrop also offered unique insights into post-war realities and its toll on the men who served on both sides. Bush doesn't try to lighten the situations for purposes of a happy ending, which is her signature. I had reason to be fearful throughout the story and it just made it an outstanding tale.
I loved this story and am excited about this series. The introductory novella (see the story Into the Evermore in the anthology Christmas in America) set this one up perfectly. While it helped to introduce Matt's parents, it's not essential to be read before this one. However, I highly recommend it before or after as it is really, really good. 4.5 stars
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
August 28, 2020
My listen to the first “Into the Evermore” in the Gentry’s of Paradise series by Ms. Bush, I am grateful that she provided me with this story in a two-book giveaway to read. Matthew Gentry, one of the scattered children who left home at age of 18 years to join the Confederate Army because of disagreements with his father, finds himself six years later drifting aimlessly…drowning himself in booze and loose women. It is not until he is summoned home that he is caught in a terrible storm and is left near death. Annie Campbell, a strong woman in her own right who lives along on her own land discovers Matt and decides to aid him. Once her mind is set to do this, their future and lives are altered over time.
Having seen a much kinder side to Beauregard in the first novella, Matthew is completely opposite because of his life he had at home and in the military. Both characters are strong and spirited and you can see this from in the beginning of the story. I loved the growth of both characters and the development of their relationship over the course of the story.
This was a wonderful listen and the narration for me was much better than the novella. I love when an author does an outstanding job with providing much historical information of the places, events and outcomes of the people who survived the Civil War which puts me in mind of the “Daughters of the Mayflower” series that does the same. Such details make the story much more interesting and informative and worth a deserving 4.5 stars
Having seen a much kinder side to Beauregard in the first novella, Matthew is completely opposite because of his life he had at home and in the military. Both characters are strong and spirited and you can see this from in the beginning of the story. I loved the growth of both characters and the development of their relationship over the course of the story.
This was a wonderful listen and the narration for me was much better than the novella. I love when an author does an outstanding job with providing much historical information of the places, events and outcomes of the people who survived the Civil War which puts me in mind of the “Daughters of the Mayflower” series that does the same. Such details make the story much more interesting and informative and worth a deserving 4.5 stars
May 22, 2017
Having just finished - and thoroughly enjoyed - Into the Evermore, the prequel to For the Brave (The Gentrys of Paradise, #1), I was so anxious to get started on this book. Thankfully it did not disappoint!
Matthew Gentry’s life was saved when Annie Campbell pulled his exhausted and nearly drowned body off the riverbank behind her house. But instead of being grateful, he's surly and a less-than-pleasant patient while recovering - which the reader is able to understand...he's haunted by what he saw while serving during the Civil War, and feeling guilty for abandoning his family. But Annie doesn't know about all the things that haunt him and isn't willing to take his crap.
“I guess I didn't consider what you'd been doing since Ben was in your bed.”
“I don't imagine you consider much of another person’s point of view.”
As Matthew regains his strength, he becomes intrigued by the young woman who lives alone in the woods, and is willing to sacrifice so much for him and Ben, the family friend who came searching for him and was gravely injured. Over the course of the several months it takes for Ben to become well enough to travel, Matthew helps out around the land and begins to fall for Annie, and she for him. But then Ben is finally healed enough to travel and Matthew must go home.
Matthew and Annie’s relationship was a lovely, slow-burn romance that had me frantically reading as much as I could between innings at my son’s baseball game. I loved the strength of the heroine and the natural progression of the relationship. It was a stark contrast to today’s stories of insta-love and alpha males, and I found it delightfully refreshing. Historical romance is not a genre I’m typically drawn to, however this book has me rethinking that. I’m not sure I’ll start to actively search them out, but I’ll certainly not be dismissing them outright! And I’m definitely going to be keeping an eye out for the remaining books in this series.
Matthew Gentry’s life was saved when Annie Campbell pulled his exhausted and nearly drowned body off the riverbank behind her house. But instead of being grateful, he's surly and a less-than-pleasant patient while recovering - which the reader is able to understand...he's haunted by what he saw while serving during the Civil War, and feeling guilty for abandoning his family. But Annie doesn't know about all the things that haunt him and isn't willing to take his crap.
“I guess I didn't consider what you'd been doing since Ben was in your bed.”
“I don't imagine you consider much of another person’s point of view.”
As Matthew regains his strength, he becomes intrigued by the young woman who lives alone in the woods, and is willing to sacrifice so much for him and Ben, the family friend who came searching for him and was gravely injured. Over the course of the several months it takes for Ben to become well enough to travel, Matthew helps out around the land and begins to fall for Annie, and she for him. But then Ben is finally healed enough to travel and Matthew must go home.
Matthew and Annie’s relationship was a lovely, slow-burn romance that had me frantically reading as much as I could between innings at my son’s baseball game. I loved the strength of the heroine and the natural progression of the relationship. It was a stark contrast to today’s stories of insta-love and alpha males, and I found it delightfully refreshing. Historical romance is not a genre I’m typically drawn to, however this book has me rethinking that. I’m not sure I’ll start to actively search them out, but I’ll certainly not be dismissing them outright! And I’m definitely going to be keeping an eye out for the remaining books in this series.
May 25, 2018
For the Brave is the second book from Holly Bush’s series, The Gentry’s of Paradise. I was captivated with Matthew’s story from the start. Especially, when Annie comes along and saves him. I love the suspense in addition to the romance. Which made me want to keep reading.
I give For the Brave a well deserved five stars and I hope to read the rest of The Gentry’s of Paradise series soon.
I recommend this historical romance. Great read!
I received this book from the author. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I give For the Brave a well deserved five stars and I hope to read the rest of The Gentry’s of Paradise series soon.
I recommend this historical romance. Great read!
I received this book from the author. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
June 2, 2017
Good read
Another excellent story by Holly Bush. Characters with depth, and none of life's hardships are glossed over. She writes strong women and I enjoy it.
Another excellent story by Holly Bush. Characters with depth, and none of life's hardships are glossed over. She writes strong women and I enjoy it.
July 1, 2018
What can I say? I love Ms. Bush. Especially the Gentry’s. I will admit, however, that I read this one after Olivia’s. Matt’s book is actually the second one in the series. Don’t worry. You don’t need to read them in order. You will not be confused at all. In fact, I’m glad that I read them out of order. It made Matt and Annie’s story that much sweeter for me. How I loved this story. In fact, this might be my favorite historical romance read of this year.
Why is that Harlie? Matt, hands down. I just fell in love from the first page. Considering that I had already read a little bit about him in Olivia’s, Ms. Bush really hit it out of the park with this one. There is a bit of suspense, romance, humor, and just had the feel of the movie Open Range, starring Kevin Costner (*swoon*). And yes, I pictured him as Matt. But I digress. Matt is the hero that I’m drawn to. Wounded, a heart of gold, loyal, but doesn’t feel like he deserves to be happy by his past actions. Trust me, he does. He gives as good as he gets and is first and foremost a gentleman. I loved how he treated Annie throughout the book. He never talked down to her but consider her an equal. He tried to go all Alpha but Annie just put him in his place. I knew right there that he and Annie were destined.
Annie, regardless of all the horrible things that had happened to her and her family, she never gave up hope. In fact, I think it made her stronger. I never felt bad for her but I could never figure out some things until Ms. Bush let me in on the secrets. Dang…they were some doozies. But Ms. Bush writes them in a way that you really hate the villains and cheer for Annie. And yes, there are plenty of villains in this book. Picture the standoff in the movie Silverado at the end. The ending scenes with the villains…it was like the scene in Silverado. You will stand up and cheer for Adam, Matt, Annie, and Gilly.
Overall, this book is definitely a keeper. If you are looking for an exceptional western historical romance, look no further than Ms. Bush. She owns the genre and has my heart.
Why is that Harlie? Matt, hands down. I just fell in love from the first page. Considering that I had already read a little bit about him in Olivia’s, Ms. Bush really hit it out of the park with this one. There is a bit of suspense, romance, humor, and just had the feel of the movie Open Range, starring Kevin Costner (*swoon*). And yes, I pictured him as Matt. But I digress. Matt is the hero that I’m drawn to. Wounded, a heart of gold, loyal, but doesn’t feel like he deserves to be happy by his past actions. Trust me, he does. He gives as good as he gets and is first and foremost a gentleman. I loved how he treated Annie throughout the book. He never talked down to her but consider her an equal. He tried to go all Alpha but Annie just put him in his place. I knew right there that he and Annie were destined.
Annie, regardless of all the horrible things that had happened to her and her family, she never gave up hope. In fact, I think it made her stronger. I never felt bad for her but I could never figure out some things until Ms. Bush let me in on the secrets. Dang…they were some doozies. But Ms. Bush writes them in a way that you really hate the villains and cheer for Annie. And yes, there are plenty of villains in this book. Picture the standoff in the movie Silverado at the end. The ending scenes with the villains…it was like the scene in Silverado. You will stand up and cheer for Adam, Matt, Annie, and Gilly.
Overall, this book is definitely a keeper. If you are looking for an exceptional western historical romance, look no further than Ms. Bush. She owns the genre and has my heart.
June 12, 2017
For the Brave ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ written by Holly Bush
(The Gentrys of Paradise #1)
I reviewed the preview novella of this series Into the Evermore and in my review I said I really like the story but I wanted more. This novel so much more. Ms Bush pulled out all the stops and has created a finely crafted beginning family sage.
Matt Gentry left home at eighteen after a argument with his father. He joined the Confederate Army and fought for the south. He left the army after four years as a mentally battle scared soldier and drifted for two years. He drank to the point of not knowing where he was or who he was with.
It was during one of drunken escapades Ben Littleship, a close family friend, finally found him. Ben informed him of the death of his father and told him he needed to come home the the Paradise Ranch the family compound.
Matt regretted his father's death and that they did not make amends. It is on this journey home that Matt and Ben are caught in a deadly storm and find themselves at the edge of drowning and subsequently their death.
They are rescued by a young woman Annie Campbell she is somewhat of a recluse and lives quite secluded on the outskirts of town. Annie totally dedicates herself to their recovery which evolves over a few months. It is during this period both Annie and Matt become friends and confide hidden secrets about their lives.
This book is quite a story so well crafted and riveting. Ms. Bush paints such details you feel yourself in the book not just a reader. This book is not for the faint of heart some scenes prove to be quite cruel but needed to fulfill the story. The book to me is one of this author's finest works and a testimony to her talent.
(The Gentrys of Paradise #1)
I reviewed the preview novella of this series Into the Evermore and in my review I said I really like the story but I wanted more. This novel so much more. Ms Bush pulled out all the stops and has created a finely crafted beginning family sage.
Matt Gentry left home at eighteen after a argument with his father. He joined the Confederate Army and fought for the south. He left the army after four years as a mentally battle scared soldier and drifted for two years. He drank to the point of not knowing where he was or who he was with.
It was during one of drunken escapades Ben Littleship, a close family friend, finally found him. Ben informed him of the death of his father and told him he needed to come home the the Paradise Ranch the family compound.
Matt regretted his father's death and that they did not make amends. It is on this journey home that Matt and Ben are caught in a deadly storm and find themselves at the edge of drowning and subsequently their death.
They are rescued by a young woman Annie Campbell she is somewhat of a recluse and lives quite secluded on the outskirts of town. Annie totally dedicates herself to their recovery which evolves over a few months. It is during this period both Annie and Matt become friends and confide hidden secrets about their lives.
This book is quite a story so well crafted and riveting. Ms. Bush paints such details you feel yourself in the book not just a reader. This book is not for the faint of heart some scenes prove to be quite cruel but needed to fulfill the story. The book to me is one of this author's finest works and a testimony to her talent.
July 5, 2017
For The Brave continues the story of The Gentrys of Paradise which began with the novella, Into The Evermore. Eleanor and Beau’s son, Matthew, leaves home at age eighteen to fight in the Civil War. After what he’s experienced at Gettysburg, as well as other battles, he’s found it easier to lose himself in a bottle and by traveling anywhere except home. Until one day when an beloved employee and good friend of his family finally finds him. Tragedy has struck his family, and it is time for Matthew to come home. However, on the way home, Matthew almost dies crossing a swollen river and is saved and cared for by the spunky Annie Campbell. After months of recuperating at Annie’s home, Matthew finds himself drawn to the strong, caring Annie. He is torn as he knows he must go home, but he doesn’t want to leave Annie behind.
For The Brave immediately pulls you back in history to a time and place when life was simpler but difficult. Matthew starts out in the story as a rough and tough, hard drinking and fun seeking man who is reigned in quickly after hearing he must go home. While recuperating at Annie’s, we see his softer side as he instinctively wants to protect her, despite her protests. Matthew is a fully fleshed out character with a past that we soon learn about that helps you to understand how he’d ended up so unhappy. In turn, Annie’s character is also well-written and fully rounded. I found myself wishing only the best for these two haunted characters who needed love to make them feel whole again.
Vivid, well-written, and compelling. This novel is definitely author Holly Bush’s greatest achievement so far, and I can’t wait to read the next one in this series.
(I received an advance copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.)
For The Brave immediately pulls you back in history to a time and place when life was simpler but difficult. Matthew starts out in the story as a rough and tough, hard drinking and fun seeking man who is reigned in quickly after hearing he must go home. While recuperating at Annie’s, we see his softer side as he instinctively wants to protect her, despite her protests. Matthew is a fully fleshed out character with a past that we soon learn about that helps you to understand how he’d ended up so unhappy. In turn, Annie’s character is also well-written and fully rounded. I found myself wishing only the best for these two haunted characters who needed love to make them feel whole again.
Vivid, well-written, and compelling. This novel is definitely author Holly Bush’s greatest achievement so far, and I can’t wait to read the next one in this series.
(I received an advance copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.)
January 28, 2021
This is the second book in The Gentrys of Paradise series, a Historical Romance. Matthew and Annie's story is beautifully written, sweet, and captivating. Matthew is emotionally damaged by the violence and inhumanity of the war, and he is haunted by regret from his past. He is handsome. Annie's past is totally heartbreaking. She is a wonderful character, strong, caring, and supportive. The storyline is filled with drama, intrigue, and suspense. The supporting characters are great. I love the family bonds in this story. Maury Light did a good job with the narration. Looking forward to listen to For This Moment, the next book in the Series.
June 23, 2017
For the Brave
Eleanor and Beau's youngest son Matt is coming home after dallying for year s after the civil war is over. Beau has died. On the way there's an accident and he saves his friend Ben and in turn is saved by Annie Campbell. Annie is surviving after the murders of her father and brother. In the coarse of things Matt saves Annie from the men who killed her kin and they marry. The story ends with Annie giving birth to a son they named after her brother. Great story, great series. Can't wait for the third story.
Eleanor and Beau's youngest son Matt is coming home after dallying for year s after the civil war is over. Beau has died. On the way there's an accident and he saves his friend Ben and in turn is saved by Annie Campbell. Annie is surviving after the murders of her father and brother. In the coarse of things Matt saves Annie from the men who killed her kin and they marry. The story ends with Annie giving birth to a son they named after her brother. Great story, great series. Can't wait for the third story.
June 23, 2017
Matt survives the Civil War but has to be rescued by Annie and returned to health. These two have been wounded by the times and life and find a way to the future. Get ready to be engrossed in this family tale that keeps you turning the pages and wanting more are the ending. Definitely recommend this author and series.
Ebook from Netgalley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.
Ebook from Netgalley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.
July 10, 2017
Love and Family
The focus of this story is about love, loyalty and the richness of family. Although set in the 1800's, the author did not overburden the book with excessive historical information . I will be very interested to read the next installment.
Very well done. Brain candy!
The focus of this story is about love, loyalty and the richness of family. Although set in the 1800's, the author did not overburden the book with excessive historical information . I will be very interested to read the next installment.
Very well done. Brain candy!
May 26, 2017
Historical Western Romance
"For the Brave" was an interesting story to read. It's about the years after the Civil War. The hero and heroine make this story . I can't tell you more without revealing the plot. Read and enjoy the book, I did!!!!!!
"For the Brave" was an interesting story to read. It's about the years after the Civil War. The hero and heroine make this story . I can't tell you more without revealing the plot. Read and enjoy the book, I did!!!!!!
November 25, 2017
For The Brave
This book was so enjoyable to read. I could hardly put it down. The characters come to life as the author recounts Annie's struggle to survive. I love ed the book and look forward to reading the adventures of Olivia.
This book was so enjoyable to read. I could hardly put it down. The characters come to life as the author recounts Annie's struggle to survive. I love ed the book and look forward to reading the adventures of Olivia.
January 30, 2018
My Musings
What a great heart felt story! I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally charged romance with engaging characters and a fantastic plot. It even has a good bit of suspense as well. I highly recommend this book and can't wait to read the next one in this series.Happy ☺reading 📚!
What a great heart felt story! I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally charged romance with engaging characters and a fantastic plot. It even has a good bit of suspense as well. I highly recommend this book and can't wait to read the next one in this series.Happy ☺reading 📚!
March 10, 2018
As others have said this is a cut above most such books. The characters were well developed and the plot interesting and believable. I had a tiny tear at the end. That does not happen often.
Off I go to get the next book.
Off I go to get the next book.
August 9, 2017
For the brave
Epic. Such details make you feel you are in the middle of the scenes. I love Mrs. Bush stories but I think this is the best.
Epic. Such details make you feel you are in the middle of the scenes. I love Mrs. Bush stories but I think this is the best.
February 3, 2018
Finally another Western I liked!
I read some really good Westerns a few months ago and I’ve been dying to find novels that live up to this. For the Brave is my first by this author and I loved the way the characters were slowly revealed and I enjoyed the way the book showed some of life at that time.
I read some really good Westerns a few months ago and I’ve been dying to find novels that live up to this. For the Brave is my first by this author and I loved the way the characters were slowly revealed and I enjoyed the way the book showed some of life at that time.
June 29, 2018
This was a fun read. Enjoyed this second in the series after the into Novella . I will get back to this series to find out what happens next!
January 29, 2021
Has a rather bawdy opening, but a story of grit. The heroine steals the show.
May 8, 2017
For the Brave is the first full-length novel in Holly Bush’s The Gentrys of Paradise series. Although I read the prequel novella for the series late last year, For the Brave can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
The Unique
-Bush has a very minimalistic writing style. She gives readers just enough information to form a picture in their head. She’s found and mastered the fine line of just enough, not too much and not too little. The pages of For the Brave weren’t packed with prose and details, but they weren’t empty either. I rather enjoyed the imaginative freedom this book gave me!
-Although I’ve been seeing more and more Civil War and post-Civil War romances on the market, this is still a pretty uncommon time period for historical romance. For the Brave’s post-Civil War setting, paired with Matthew’s regret over signing up to serve, set the stage for some incredibly engrossing scenes where Matthew mulled over the purpose of the war and what the war meant to the young, Confederate soldiers.
The Exceptional
-Although Matt and Annie shared a connection for a good part of this book, they both knew that Matt was heading home to Paradise and that Annie was staying at her farm as soon as possible. Annie’s vehemence that she needed to stick out the rough situation at her family’s farm and Matt’s necessity in getting back to Paradise really set and ante very high.
-In For the Brave readers get to see an entire sex scene written from the male POV and that sex scene includes Matt’s emotions. It’s so good guys and dolls. So, so good!
-We saw substantial personal growth from both Annie and Matt in this book. Matt’s growth was readily apparent as he moved from a drunkard man-whore to someone his mother could be proud of when he returned home. Annie’s growth was less obvious though. She moved the dial from simply surviving to really exploring, and loving, and thriving through the course of For the Brave. Her understated transformation contrasted Matt’s unmistakable changes in a way that made this book hard to put down and hard to get out of my head.
The Imperfect
-If you aren’t a fan of seeing a H/h in a sexual situation with someone other than their eventual partner, skip the first part of Chapter 1. I’m glad I persevered on since I ended up loving For the Brave, but the first few pages of this book were really, really hard for me to read.
For the Brave is full of really good character development and the irresistible romance of Annie and Matthew. It’s also brimming with historical details though. Bush has clearly done a ton of research on this time period and that thorough research shows on each and every page. For the Brave is perfect for Civil War romance newbies and existing connoisseurs of this time period. If you aren’t sure about reading a romance set in this time period I urge you to give For the Brave a try!
Copy for review provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally published at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews.
The Unique
-Bush has a very minimalistic writing style. She gives readers just enough information to form a picture in their head. She’s found and mastered the fine line of just enough, not too much and not too little. The pages of For the Brave weren’t packed with prose and details, but they weren’t empty either. I rather enjoyed the imaginative freedom this book gave me!
-Although I’ve been seeing more and more Civil War and post-Civil War romances on the market, this is still a pretty uncommon time period for historical romance. For the Brave’s post-Civil War setting, paired with Matthew’s regret over signing up to serve, set the stage for some incredibly engrossing scenes where Matthew mulled over the purpose of the war and what the war meant to the young, Confederate soldiers.
The Exceptional
-Although Matt and Annie shared a connection for a good part of this book, they both knew that Matt was heading home to Paradise and that Annie was staying at her farm as soon as possible. Annie’s vehemence that she needed to stick out the rough situation at her family’s farm and Matt’s necessity in getting back to Paradise really set and ante very high.
-In For the Brave readers get to see an entire sex scene written from the male POV and that sex scene includes Matt’s emotions. It’s so good guys and dolls. So, so good!
-We saw substantial personal growth from both Annie and Matt in this book. Matt’s growth was readily apparent as he moved from a drunkard man-whore to someone his mother could be proud of when he returned home. Annie’s growth was less obvious though. She moved the dial from simply surviving to really exploring, and loving, and thriving through the course of For the Brave. Her understated transformation contrasted Matt’s unmistakable changes in a way that made this book hard to put down and hard to get out of my head.
The Imperfect
-If you aren’t a fan of seeing a H/h in a sexual situation with someone other than their eventual partner, skip the first part of Chapter 1. I’m glad I persevered on since I ended up loving For the Brave, but the first few pages of this book were really, really hard for me to read.
For the Brave is full of really good character development and the irresistible romance of Annie and Matthew. It’s also brimming with historical details though. Bush has clearly done a ton of research on this time period and that thorough research shows on each and every page. For the Brave is perfect for Civil War romance newbies and existing connoisseurs of this time period. If you aren’t sure about reading a romance set in this time period I urge you to give For the Brave a try!
Copy for review provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally published at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews.
June 9, 2018
I love historical fiction romance novels, and this one definitely hit the spot. Matthew starts off being very irresponsible, but after his accident, he has to learn how to live normally again, outside the constant party life. This show of maturity really changed my opinion on his character. Annie has honestly been one of the strongest female characters that I have ever read about in a historical fiction novel like this one. She wasn’t looking for a husband and had been through so much in her life, yet she as strong enough to nurse Matthew and his brother back to health. In a way, this could be a modern Beauty and the Beast, except the Beast was not ugly but just hated, and saved the Beauty.
The plot is quite fast-paced, but there was definitely a lot of time spent digging into the stories of each character. I was able to form a connection with each one in some way. The story was only about 300 e-pages, but it felt much longer with the amount of story that was packed into those pages. Everything seemed to flow well, albeit quickly, and the plot’s twists and turns were all unique.
I also noticed that the world-building was excellent. Some historical romance novels completely forget to build the setting and instead only focus on romance portions of the novel rather than the setting. This novel focuses on both!
There also weren’t any plot holes or editing errors that I noticed. Everything was just enjoyable for an advanced copy of the novel!
I would recommend this novel to lovers of historical fiction with strong female main characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
The plot is quite fast-paced, but there was definitely a lot of time spent digging into the stories of each character. I was able to form a connection with each one in some way. The story was only about 300 e-pages, but it felt much longer with the amount of story that was packed into those pages. Everything seemed to flow well, albeit quickly, and the plot’s twists and turns were all unique.
I also noticed that the world-building was excellent. Some historical romance novels completely forget to build the setting and instead only focus on romance portions of the novel rather than the setting. This novel focuses on both!
There also weren’t any plot holes or editing errors that I noticed. Everything was just enjoyable for an advanced copy of the novel!
I would recommend this novel to lovers of historical fiction with strong female main characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
February 4, 2024
OH. LORT.
I absolutely LOVED this story - it had a little bit of everything. Suspense, intrigue, romance, overcoming adversity. It hit EVERYTHING and it hit it PERFECTLY.
Matt is a troubled Civil War veteran, struggling to overcome the war, his father's passing (which he left 6 years' prior in anger) and his demons. One of his family farm's employees, Ben Littleship, finds him and works to bring him home. They get themselves washed up in a flooded riverbed on the trail after a bad decision and almost die. Annie Campbell finds them the next morning and nurses them back to health. A budding relationship ensues, along with a little back & forth, and the suspense kicks in hyperdrive.
I fell in LOVE with Matt / Annie - both stubborn, bull-headed people (I can relate!) that are fighting their demons and make their way in the world. I love how Annie fights Matt's attentions but, somehow, she just can't seem to go all the way. Matt catches her, literally and figuratively, at each pass and falls for her like a ton of bricks. It was such a great story and Holly Bush has been an AMAZING find - I have the other books in this series and I'm very much looking forward to reading them!
I absolutely LOVED this story - it had a little bit of everything. Suspense, intrigue, romance, overcoming adversity. It hit EVERYTHING and it hit it PERFECTLY.
Matt is a troubled Civil War veteran, struggling to overcome the war, his father's passing (which he left 6 years' prior in anger) and his demons. One of his family farm's employees, Ben Littleship, finds him and works to bring him home. They get themselves washed up in a flooded riverbed on the trail after a bad decision and almost die. Annie Campbell finds them the next morning and nurses them back to health. A budding relationship ensues, along with a little back & forth, and the suspense kicks in hyperdrive.
I fell in LOVE with Matt / Annie - both stubborn, bull-headed people (I can relate!) that are fighting their demons and make their way in the world. I love how Annie fights Matt's attentions but, somehow, she just can't seem to go all the way. Matt catches her, literally and figuratively, at each pass and falls for her like a ton of bricks. It was such a great story and Holly Bush has been an AMAZING find - I have the other books in this series and I'm very much looking forward to reading them!
April 27, 2025
I listened to the Audible version and I enjoyed the narration and the accents. This is a compelling story about a broken Confederate officer, Matt after the war, drifting aimlessly. It seemed realistic and the hardships and conflict that did not end with the war seemed well-portrayed as poverty and violence still gripped the South. There was a sweet love story between Matt and an equally damaged young woman trying to eke out a living all alone. There were a few things that didn't quite add up, like Matt having a lot of money when he was convalescing and his family in Virginia seemed to weather the Civil War better than expected for confederates. But overall it was a good old-fashioned adventure tale with a nice romance to boot.
October 20, 2019
So good, and so much better than the prequel novella! As I had hoped, the author straightened out the awkward dialog from the prequel, though there were still several annoying typos.
Some people may find Matt’s family’s response to his return to be unrealistic, but I think it just underscores the author’s portrayal of the Gentry family as simply good people.
Looking forward to the next!
Some people may find Matt’s family’s response to his return to be unrealistic, but I think it just underscores the author’s portrayal of the Gentry family as simply good people.
Looking forward to the next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2018
Watch out - sex on the first page!
September 21, 2021
Great Series
This is a beautiful series about the Gentry series. I am about to start reading the third book in the series and can't wait.
This is a beautiful series about the Gentry series. I am about to start reading the third book in the series and can't wait.
October 14, 2022
I really enjoyed Matthew and Annie’s story. His transformation from drunken and haunted former Confederate soldier to a man with principles and a strong sense of right and wrong is very well written and compelling. When Matt and and his family friend Ben nearly drown Annie is struggling and alone on her family farm but she nurses the men back to health. Annie might be dirt poor but her dedication to her patients and her grit and determination in the face of great trials is truly inspiring. I enjoyed the writing, danger, perseverance and romance and the author’s writing style which reflects the austere time period. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series.
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