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The Daughters of the Mayflower #5
The Cumberland Bride
Thomas Bledsoe and Kate Gruener are traveling the Wilderness Road when conflicts between natives and settlers reach a peak that will require each of them to tap into a well of courage.
Love and Adventure Are Discovered on the Wilderness Road
In 1794, when Kate Gruener’s father is ready to move the family farther west into the wilderness to farm untouched land, Kate is eager to live out her own story of adventure like he did during the War for Independence and to see untamed lands. And she sets her sights on learning more about their scout, Thomas Bledsoe. Thomas’s job is to get settlers safely across the Kentucky Wilderness Road to their destination while keeping an ear open for news of Shawnee unrest. But naïve Kate’s inquisitive nature could put them both in the middle of a rising tide of conflict. Is there more to Thomas’s story than he is willing to tell? Is there an untapped courage in Kate that can thwart a coming disaster?
Join the adventure as the Daughters of the Mayflower series continues with The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear.
More in the Daughters of the Mayflower series:
The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1620 Atlantic Ocean (February 2018)
The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1725 New Orleans (April 2018)
The Captured Bride by Michelle Griep – set 1760 during the French and Indian War (June 2018)
The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1774 Philadelphia (August 2018)
The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1794 on the Wilderness Road (October 2018)
The Liberty Bride by MaryLu Tyndall – set 1814 Baltimore (December 2018)
The Alamo Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1836 Texas (February 2019)
The Golden Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1849 San Francisco (April 2019)
The Express Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1860 Utah (July 2019)
The Rebel Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1863 Tennessee (December 2019)
The Blizzard Bride by Susanne Dietze – set 1888 Nebraska (February 2020)
The Chisholm Trail Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo - (April 2020)
Love and Adventure Are Discovered on the Wilderness Road
In 1794, when Kate Gruener’s father is ready to move the family farther west into the wilderness to farm untouched land, Kate is eager to live out her own story of adventure like he did during the War for Independence and to see untamed lands. And she sets her sights on learning more about their scout, Thomas Bledsoe. Thomas’s job is to get settlers safely across the Kentucky Wilderness Road to their destination while keeping an ear open for news of Shawnee unrest. But naïve Kate’s inquisitive nature could put them both in the middle of a rising tide of conflict. Is there more to Thomas’s story than he is willing to tell? Is there an untapped courage in Kate that can thwart a coming disaster?
Join the adventure as the Daughters of the Mayflower series continues with The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear.
More in the Daughters of the Mayflower series:
The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1620 Atlantic Ocean (February 2018)
The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1725 New Orleans (April 2018)
The Captured Bride by Michelle Griep – set 1760 during the French and Indian War (June 2018)
The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1774 Philadelphia (August 2018)
The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1794 on the Wilderness Road (October 2018)
The Liberty Bride by MaryLu Tyndall – set 1814 Baltimore (December 2018)
The Alamo Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1836 Texas (February 2019)
The Golden Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1849 San Francisco (April 2019)
The Express Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1860 Utah (July 2019)
The Rebel Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1863 Tennessee (December 2019)
The Blizzard Bride by Susanne Dietze – set 1888 Nebraska (February 2020)
The Chisholm Trail Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo - (April 2020)
256 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2018
69 people are currently reading
1535 people want to read
About the author
Shannon McNear
24 books968 followersShannon has been writing one thing or another since third grade and finished her first novel at age fifteen—but waited more than thirty years for her first book contract. In the meantime, she graduated from high school, attended college, met and married her husband, birthed nine children, lost one, taught five to drive, revised that first story innumerable times, and completed six others.
Her first published novella, Defending Truth, in A Pioneer Christmas Collection (Barbour, 2013 & 2015), was a 2014 RITA® nominee, and her most recent one, The Wise Guy and the Star in Love's Pure Light was a 2021 SELAH winner. She writes regularly for Colonial Quills, is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Faith-Hope-Love Christian Writers, and is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency.
Transplanted to North Dakota after more than two decades in Charleston, South Carolina, she loves losing herself in local history. When this homeschooling mom isn't cooking, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, basking in the beauty of the northern prairies.
Her first published novella, Defending Truth, in A Pioneer Christmas Collection (Barbour, 2013 & 2015), was a 2014 RITA® nominee, and her most recent one, The Wise Guy and the Star in Love's Pure Light was a 2021 SELAH winner. She writes regularly for Colonial Quills, is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Faith-Hope-Love Christian Writers, and is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency.
Transplanted to North Dakota after more than two decades in Charleston, South Carolina, she loves losing herself in local history. When this homeschooling mom isn't cooking, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, basking in the beauty of the northern prairies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
October 10, 2018
Even before I finished this I knew it would be my favorite book of the Daughter's of the Mayflower series! Wow, and I'm gonna say it again, WOW! Absolutely loved this book!
This book was so rich in historical detail and I just gobbled it up. You want to tell me about the Wilderness Road in great detail, the terrain,weather conditions,native vegetation along the way? You want to tell me about the natives,their habitat,foods,customs, oh yes please I am all ears. I could visualize the story taking place as I read. I need a bit more time to digest this as I am still visualizing it. I am the person who reads a nonfiction historical book for enjoyment like a novel. As far as historical recommendations the author mentions Laura Frantz and Lori Benton, now I have another recommendation if I may, Jocelyn Green. Like the two previous author's her books are well steeped in historical detail. I loved the author sharing about more history of the area and historical filled facts in the back of her book. It's a shame only about one percent of author's research is able to be used in books but I can see how that's possible. Eagerly await what the author puts out next.
Pub Date 01 Oct 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc. through NetGalley, thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book was so rich in historical detail and I just gobbled it up. You want to tell me about the Wilderness Road in great detail, the terrain,weather conditions,native vegetation along the way? You want to tell me about the natives,their habitat,foods,customs, oh yes please I am all ears. I could visualize the story taking place as I read. I need a bit more time to digest this as I am still visualizing it. I am the person who reads a nonfiction historical book for enjoyment like a novel. As far as historical recommendations the author mentions Laura Frantz and Lori Benton, now I have another recommendation if I may, Jocelyn Green. Like the two previous author's her books are well steeped in historical detail. I loved the author sharing about more history of the area and historical filled facts in the back of her book. It's a shame only about one percent of author's research is able to be used in books but I can see how that's possible. Eagerly await what the author puts out next.
Pub Date 01 Oct 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc. through NetGalley, thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 26, 2018
I admit it. I'm a jaded reader. So when I give a book 5 stars, it's truly an event . . . and The Cumberland Bride is worthy of every hard-earned star I'm giving it. Shannon McNear can spin a tale like none other, and the romance side of it, whewie! The girl does relationships like a champ!
If you're hankering to go back in time and visit the Colonial era, when life was tough and danger very real, then snatch yourself up a copy of this gem. You won't be sorry. It's just that good.
And I'll be stalking bookstore shelves, just waiting for her next book to come out, so I can grab myself the next awesome story she puts out.
If you're hankering to go back in time and visit the Colonial era, when life was tough and danger very real, then snatch yourself up a copy of this gem. You won't be sorry. It's just that good.
And I'll be stalking bookstore shelves, just waiting for her next book to come out, so I can grab myself the next awesome story she puts out.
August 20, 2018
This series just keeps getting better and better. I read 60% of this book in one day. It is that good. I would give this one 4 1/2 stars.
It is the story of a guide, Thomas Bledsoe, who takes the Gruener and Jenkins families from Virginia to Kentucky, through the Cumberland Gap. But it is Kate Gruener, who captures his eye. Even though he is determined not to let a woman cry over him as he is undetermined in what his future may hold. But it is Kate's inquisitive nature that brings him to the point of whether he cannot live without her. The trials along the way also bring them closer, especially once Thomas is confronted by some Shawnee Indians, who appear to be from his very secretive past. As he vowed never to let a woman cry over him, it is exactly what he has to do, to survive.
This is the latest in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. I think the stories are building, each one getting better and better. This could be read as a stand alone, as it does not really tie into previous books, only the mention of her grandparents who came over on the Mayflower. I would recommend it to all who is reading this series, those that are interested in settlers coming though the Cumberland Gap, and how those trials brought the unrest with local Indians. Cannot wait for the next book to come out.
I received this from Netgalley, Barbour Publishing, Inc, and author Shannon McNear for my honest review.
It is the story of a guide, Thomas Bledsoe, who takes the Gruener and Jenkins families from Virginia to Kentucky, through the Cumberland Gap. But it is Kate Gruener, who captures his eye. Even though he is determined not to let a woman cry over him as he is undetermined in what his future may hold. But it is Kate's inquisitive nature that brings him to the point of whether he cannot live without her. The trials along the way also bring them closer, especially once Thomas is confronted by some Shawnee Indians, who appear to be from his very secretive past. As he vowed never to let a woman cry over him, it is exactly what he has to do, to survive.
This is the latest in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. I think the stories are building, each one getting better and better. This could be read as a stand alone, as it does not really tie into previous books, only the mention of her grandparents who came over on the Mayflower. I would recommend it to all who is reading this series, those that are interested in settlers coming though the Cumberland Gap, and how those trials brought the unrest with local Indians. Cannot wait for the next book to come out.
I received this from Netgalley, Barbour Publishing, Inc, and author Shannon McNear for my honest review.
October 14, 2018
What a story! I absolutely loved this novel and it is definitely my favorite book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. This series is written by several different authors, with books that are all stand alone novels, and follows a family tree through important time periods in our history.
These characters and the setting felt so real to me. From the vivid descriptions of what traveling the trace was like, to the dangers that arose as the settlers moved on day by day, I was rivited to the page. I also was impressed with the peek into the Shawnee town and those who lived there.
I loved the way the romantic feelings developed between the two main characters, Kate and Thomas. The interest and attraction that Kate couldn’t help but feel for Thomas was sweet and her attempts to get to know him seemed realistic. Thomas’ reticence to attach himself to anyone made sense, yet it was clear that feelings for Kate began to develop no matter how he tried to resist.
This story was so interesting from start to finish and will definitely be one that I reread.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
These characters and the setting felt so real to me. From the vivid descriptions of what traveling the trace was like, to the dangers that arose as the settlers moved on day by day, I was rivited to the page. I also was impressed with the peek into the Shawnee town and those who lived there.
I loved the way the romantic feelings developed between the two main characters, Kate and Thomas. The interest and attraction that Kate couldn’t help but feel for Thomas was sweet and her attempts to get to know him seemed realistic. Thomas’ reticence to attach himself to anyone made sense, yet it was clear that feelings for Kate began to develop no matter how he tried to resist.
This story was so interesting from start to finish and will definitely be one that I reread.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 21, 2018
I loved the expansive wilderness setting in this book and the various feelings it gave throughout the story- anticipation and adventure, trepidation and danger. I could relate to Kate as she shows her inexperience in the elements, but also her strength, determination, and grit. Like Thomas, I couldn't help but admire her lack of complaints and selfless attitude. Even though it takes a while for Thomas to warm up to her enough to spark a friendship, she doesn't go unnoticed. I enjoyed learning about his past as a former captive of the Indians and the unique perspective and skills it gave him. The journey begins with a slow but steady pace, but definitely picks up with action and conflict that draws Kate and Thomas closer together. I finished the book with a satisfied feeling, and I think it's a story that would be enjoyed by fans of Laura Frantz and Lori Benton. Highly recommend!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
May 13, 2019
It's official...This is my favorite book of the Daughters of the Mayflower series. Not that I don't love other books in this series, or enjoy all of them. But this one was fabulous! Life has been a little busy the last several months and I was super slow reading and reviewing this book by its publication date. But I'm slowly going back and catching up on several books that I missed. I figured that I'd pick this one up and skim through it quickly to finish it so I could write a review for it and get myself all caught up. Ha! Yeah right! My plan backfired completely on me. Thanks to this author that I've never read before. I was sucked in completely! I couldn't set it down. It was so good! I was completely pulled in and transfixed throughout the story of the Cumberland Bride.
I love historical fiction. I love any era honestly. I think it's all fascinating and amazing to learn about the different time periods and how people lived and thrived. These early settlers were so amazing. I live in an old town that was settled back when the West was very young and it became a major hub for travelers, so it is very rich in history. I love the history of it and the surrounding areas as well. Although where I live and the setting of this story aren't close by each other, it still felt like the histories of both places were similar and very fascinating.
There is most definitely a love story involved in this one and I have to say that I loved watching the relationship develop between the two main characters. Thomas Bledsoe has been hired by the Gruener family to scout for them as they are journeying to the new land they plan to settle on. Thomas and the Gruener's daughter, Kate, have plenty of great encounters. Several of them little mishaps but they are drawn to each other, even when they try to avoid the pull that they feel.
I'm not going to go into detail because I don't want to spoil anything. I will tell you that there are moments of suspense, laughter, heartache, friendship, sweet and tender moments and plenty of adventure. I loved the main characters but I also thought that the author did a great job of supporting characters to help round out the cast in this book. The adventures that this group experiences along their travels resembled the lifestyle and struggles of the time. The struggles with trying to settle the land peacefully with the Native Americans and yet the anger and hurt caused by both sides of that land battle kept some suspense going throughout the story. Well done for sure!
I'm so glad that I finally picked up this story and devoured it. Yes, I did devour it. I read it super fast and absolutely loved it!
If you're wondering about this being a series and needing to read all of them to understand the story, you don't need to. The books are connected by a family line but you are able to read them individually and not feel like you've missed something by doing so. The authors may mention the couple who came over on the Mayflower throughout this series but only in referencing who the main characters of each book descend from. So pick and choose or read them all. I hope you enjoy whatever you choose to do.
Content: Clean. Some moments of peril. Some kisses and mild innuendos about relations between a married couple but nothing graphic. This is a Christian fiction so the characters do occasionally pray to God for help and guidance and a couple small scenes of Sunday worship but nothing that felt over the top for those readers who might shy away from Christian fiction. I felt like it was well done and if you're interested in the book but not those small scenes, I think you'd be fine skipping over them and not missing any pertinent information for the storyline.
I received a copy from the publisher, Barbour Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I love historical fiction. I love any era honestly. I think it's all fascinating and amazing to learn about the different time periods and how people lived and thrived. These early settlers were so amazing. I live in an old town that was settled back when the West was very young and it became a major hub for travelers, so it is very rich in history. I love the history of it and the surrounding areas as well. Although where I live and the setting of this story aren't close by each other, it still felt like the histories of both places were similar and very fascinating.
There is most definitely a love story involved in this one and I have to say that I loved watching the relationship develop between the two main characters. Thomas Bledsoe has been hired by the Gruener family to scout for them as they are journeying to the new land they plan to settle on. Thomas and the Gruener's daughter, Kate, have plenty of great encounters. Several of them little mishaps but they are drawn to each other, even when they try to avoid the pull that they feel.
I'm not going to go into detail because I don't want to spoil anything. I will tell you that there are moments of suspense, laughter, heartache, friendship, sweet and tender moments and plenty of adventure. I loved the main characters but I also thought that the author did a great job of supporting characters to help round out the cast in this book. The adventures that this group experiences along their travels resembled the lifestyle and struggles of the time. The struggles with trying to settle the land peacefully with the Native Americans and yet the anger and hurt caused by both sides of that land battle kept some suspense going throughout the story. Well done for sure!
I'm so glad that I finally picked up this story and devoured it. Yes, I did devour it. I read it super fast and absolutely loved it!
If you're wondering about this being a series and needing to read all of them to understand the story, you don't need to. The books are connected by a family line but you are able to read them individually and not feel like you've missed something by doing so. The authors may mention the couple who came over on the Mayflower throughout this series but only in referencing who the main characters of each book descend from. So pick and choose or read them all. I hope you enjoy whatever you choose to do.
Content: Clean. Some moments of peril. Some kisses and mild innuendos about relations between a married couple but nothing graphic. This is a Christian fiction so the characters do occasionally pray to God for help and guidance and a couple small scenes of Sunday worship but nothing that felt over the top for those readers who might shy away from Christian fiction. I felt like it was well done and if you're interested in the book but not those small scenes, I think you'd be fine skipping over them and not missing any pertinent information for the storyline.
I received a copy from the publisher, Barbour Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
September 19, 2018
The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear is the fifth book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series.
It is a thoroughly captivating story of a wilderness journey in 1794.
Kate Gruener and her family are making the difficult trek from Bean’s Station, Tennessee, through the Cumberland Gap then farther into the wilds of western Kentucky. Her father has hired Thomas Bledsoe to scout for the party. Thomas has experience with the Shawnee and Cherokee. The road is very primitive and there are many hardships and dangers along the way. But the travelers bathe their trip in prayer and trust they will make it through to a place where they can put down roots and prosper. By the end of the trip both Kate and Thomas will have answers to the questions of where they truly belong.
Shannon McNear has done extensive research and her narrative puts you into the heart of the story. The historical detail is very interesting and she sheds light on customs and myths that are often associated with this time period. The characters are rich, with hopes and dreams that make them very relatable.
If you like historical fiction that not only feeds your curiosity of the past but keeps you reading because of the exciting content.......don’t miss this wonderful book.
* I was provided an ARC copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
It is a thoroughly captivating story of a wilderness journey in 1794.
Kate Gruener and her family are making the difficult trek from Bean’s Station, Tennessee, through the Cumberland Gap then farther into the wilds of western Kentucky. Her father has hired Thomas Bledsoe to scout for the party. Thomas has experience with the Shawnee and Cherokee. The road is very primitive and there are many hardships and dangers along the way. But the travelers bathe their trip in prayer and trust they will make it through to a place where they can put down roots and prosper. By the end of the trip both Kate and Thomas will have answers to the questions of where they truly belong.
Shannon McNear has done extensive research and her narrative puts you into the heart of the story. The historical detail is very interesting and she sheds light on customs and myths that are often associated with this time period. The characters are rich, with hopes and dreams that make them very relatable.
If you like historical fiction that not only feeds your curiosity of the past but keeps you reading because of the exciting content.......don’t miss this wonderful book.
* I was provided an ARC copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
August 27, 2018
4.5 stars
Shannon McNear's lyrical prose weaves a magnificent tale of the early settlers along the Wilderness Road of the late 1700's. Her setting literally spring to life, as the story slowly unfolds describing the many hardships the early settlers faced as they moved westward. McNear alternates the POV between one of the settlers traveling the Wilderness Road Kate Gruenner and Thomas Bledsoe, their guide. Though she initially appears to be unprepared to face the hardships and survive in the wilderness, McNear has given us a courageous heroine. While trying to keep his distance, Thomas is drawn to Kate. He is torn between two worlds, searching for a place to call home. As they face many dangers along the way, they also find this a journey of faith.
Reminiscent of Lori Benton, Laura Frantz and Michelle Griep, fans of historical fiction will be captivated by Kate and Thomas' story. McNear has written a tale rich in historical detail and with a spiritual message that is relevant regardless of setting. She has also given us a romance that is tender and sweet.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Shannon McNear's lyrical prose weaves a magnificent tale of the early settlers along the Wilderness Road of the late 1700's. Her setting literally spring to life, as the story slowly unfolds describing the many hardships the early settlers faced as they moved westward. McNear alternates the POV between one of the settlers traveling the Wilderness Road Kate Gruenner and Thomas Bledsoe, their guide. Though she initially appears to be unprepared to face the hardships and survive in the wilderness, McNear has given us a courageous heroine. While trying to keep his distance, Thomas is drawn to Kate. He is torn between two worlds, searching for a place to call home. As they face many dangers along the way, they also find this a journey of faith.
Reminiscent of Lori Benton, Laura Frantz and Michelle Griep, fans of historical fiction will be captivated by Kate and Thomas' story. McNear has written a tale rich in historical detail and with a spiritual message that is relevant regardless of setting. She has also given us a romance that is tender and sweet.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 25, 2018
The Cumberland Bride is set between The American Revolution and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Some families were already traveling west to claim land of their own and forge a new life.
Kate Gruener is traveling to Kentucky with her family. Their guide is Thomas Bledsoe. In the pages, readers get a sense of the difficulties of traveling on little traveled parts of the country and areas where the threat of Indian attack was very real. The author did a nice job of showing how there are good people in a variety of allegiances.
My favorite part of the novel was the sweet and slow romance that developed between Kate and Thomas.
My gratitude to publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy of this novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
Kate Gruener is traveling to Kentucky with her family. Their guide is Thomas Bledsoe. In the pages, readers get a sense of the difficulties of traveling on little traveled parts of the country and areas where the threat of Indian attack was very real. The author did a nice job of showing how there are good people in a variety of allegiances.
My favorite part of the novel was the sweet and slow romance that developed between Kate and Thomas.
My gratitude to publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy of this novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
September 26, 2018
This book was an excellent read! I love that this book is a wagon train book. There is romance but there is also much knowledge about Indians, wagon trains and the great land of the East. I enjoyed many of the characters but my favorite was definitely Kate! This book kept me engaged from the first page to the last. There was so much to love about this book!
October 31, 2018
I really love historical fiction and I love the time and setting for this book. It was such a time of turmoil and unrest as white settlers continued in their westward movement, pushing into the lands inhabited by the Shawnee and other Native American tribes. Tensions were high and I could really feel that in this story.
This story has a really slow start and I was beginning to get impatient but I'm glad I stuck with it because once I reached about halfway through, things really began to pick up and I was completely engrossed. I loved Thomas and his unique upbringing that gave an inside look into the Shawnee and their point of view. There was such a feeling of adventure and danger throughout the whole story, especially in the last half. Kate is an interesting character with her desire to document people's lives and stories. She is brave, uncomplaining, and kind. She compliments Thomas fantastically and it was awesome when he finally realized it.
I would give the first half of this book 3 stars, the last half 5 stars. So, I guess that makes it a solid 4 stars from me.
Content: some violence, mild peril, kissing. This is a Christian fiction book, a bit heavier on the Christian elements.
This story has a really slow start and I was beginning to get impatient but I'm glad I stuck with it because once I reached about halfway through, things really began to pick up and I was completely engrossed. I loved Thomas and his unique upbringing that gave an inside look into the Shawnee and their point of view. There was such a feeling of adventure and danger throughout the whole story, especially in the last half. Kate is an interesting character with her desire to document people's lives and stories. She is brave, uncomplaining, and kind. She compliments Thomas fantastically and it was awesome when he finally realized it.
I would give the first half of this book 3 stars, the last half 5 stars. So, I guess that makes it a solid 4 stars from me.
Content: some violence, mild peril, kissing. This is a Christian fiction book, a bit heavier on the Christian elements.
August 5, 2018
Oh-so-rarely it comes along - that novel that absolutely grips you. Shannon McNear has given us that novel with The Cumberland Bride. Point-of-view so masterful you experience each thought and emotion as if you are that character, that moment. Description so beautiful you can see the patchwork of green on the mountains and smell the loam of spring. You'll be so drawn into the scintillating attraction between stoic scout Thomas Bledsoe and naive settler Kate Greuner as it unfolds along with their adventures on the Wilderness Road that you'll forget you're reading a book.
I received an ARC of The Cumberland Bride but was in no way obligated to post a positive review. This amounts to more than willing, effusive praise from a fellow writer, editor, and stickler for authenticity. You don't want to miss this one.
I received an ARC of The Cumberland Bride but was in no way obligated to post a positive review. This amounts to more than willing, effusive praise from a fellow writer, editor, and stickler for authenticity. You don't want to miss this one.
July 15, 2018
The Cumberland Bride is a book in a series of books by Barbour Publishing called The Daughters of the Mayflower. I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. This is a new to me author and I loved this story. The historical aspects of the frontier and the dangerous plot kept me glued to each page. I felt as if I was there enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Cumberland Gap. The romance however, was what kept me turning the pages. It was so well done and oh so precious, that I wanted the story to continue. As I said, this is a new to me author and I am thrilled to have found her. I can't wait to read more from Ms. McNear.
*This book was given to me by Barbour Publishing. I was not under any obligation to leave a review. This is my honest opinion.
*This book was given to me by Barbour Publishing. I was not under any obligation to leave a review. This is my honest opinion.
April 21, 2020
Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear
Year: 1794
Locations: Tennessee, Kentucky and Ohio
Main Characters:
Kate Gruener: Eldest daughter, writer of "peoples' stories"
Thomas Bledsoe: Scout hired to take the family to Cumberland area
Karl Gruener: Kate's father
Truth, Patience, Thankful and Mercy: Thomas's sisters
Ladyslipper: Thomas's horse. Not a major character, I just liked the name.
Argh! I'm only on number 5 of this series. My preference would have been to read them all at once, but Tennessee Reads only releases one every now and then. However, this is one of my favorites, so it was worth the wait.
"Lytton" is a family name throughout this series, beginning with Matthew Lytton crossing over on the Mayflower (thus the series name: Daughters of the Mayflower). The Lytton name is less a part of this book than the others. In this Jemima Lytton had married Karl Gruener and is the mother of our heroine, Kate Gruener. I've enjoyed following the Lyttons, and perhaps the family name will show up in following books.
The story:
It begins as a wagon train is making its way to Ohio. Landmarks mentioned are ones I'm very familiar with as their trail goes right through my backyard. Watauga Valley is just southeast of me, then they cross in a northwest direction over Clinch Mountain (from whence June Carter Cash's family hailed).
Kate Gruener loved to write stories of peoples' lives. Everyone has a story, so her journal was full of biographical information she'd coax out of most anyone. Paper was dear and her father wished her to quit. But her desire was to get people to open up. Her latest target was their guide, Thomas Bledsoe, who was quite hesitant to share his history. That history becomes a very important part of this unforgettable tale, one including an Indian village from his past.
Romance:
Gentle love, beginning with irritation and annoyance, to appreciation then love. Full on kissing scene was a bit over the top (in my opinion) for such an innocent young woman in that era. But it was all fairly clean.
Conflict including violence:
An abduction that was anything but gentle. A fight scene between two people who called themselves brothers was a scene not recommended for children. And a scary accident that included a baby and injury to the woman carrying him.
Faith:
• Trail boss was a man of faith, beginning each day with prayer.
• The Gruener family were clearly Christians, sharing Christ's love and words of wisdom from scripture.
• Thomas struggled with whether God really cared about the troubles and prayers of His people. He'd faced such hardship with the deaths of his parents, and a subsequent abduction. No matter what he prayed, it seemed he wasn't heard. We see his struggle, we see him coming to terms with God, and the revelation that God was with him throughout, bringing him to a point in his life for a particular purpose. Lovely.
The tale is thickened with adventure, fears and sadness, but also tender discovery and remarkable scenery along the way.
Oh, and as with most in this series, it's a stand alone. There's very little that needs referencing to the previous books. FYI: historical background at the end is informative as well.
Wonderful writing! Very good book!
Year: 1794
Locations: Tennessee, Kentucky and Ohio
Main Characters:
Kate Gruener: Eldest daughter, writer of "peoples' stories"
Thomas Bledsoe: Scout hired to take the family to Cumberland area
Karl Gruener: Kate's father
Truth, Patience, Thankful and Mercy: Thomas's sisters
Ladyslipper: Thomas's horse. Not a major character, I just liked the name.
Argh! I'm only on number 5 of this series. My preference would have been to read them all at once, but Tennessee Reads only releases one every now and then. However, this is one of my favorites, so it was worth the wait.
"Lytton" is a family name throughout this series, beginning with Matthew Lytton crossing over on the Mayflower (thus the series name: Daughters of the Mayflower). The Lytton name is less a part of this book than the others. In this Jemima Lytton had married Karl Gruener and is the mother of our heroine, Kate Gruener. I've enjoyed following the Lyttons, and perhaps the family name will show up in following books.
The story:
It begins as a wagon train is making its way to Ohio. Landmarks mentioned are ones I'm very familiar with as their trail goes right through my backyard. Watauga Valley is just southeast of me, then they cross in a northwest direction over Clinch Mountain (from whence June Carter Cash's family hailed).
Kate Gruener loved to write stories of peoples' lives. Everyone has a story, so her journal was full of biographical information she'd coax out of most anyone. Paper was dear and her father wished her to quit. But her desire was to get people to open up. Her latest target was their guide, Thomas Bledsoe, who was quite hesitant to share his history. That history becomes a very important part of this unforgettable tale, one including an Indian village from his past.
Romance:
Gentle love, beginning with irritation and annoyance, to appreciation then love. Full on kissing scene was a bit over the top (in my opinion) for such an innocent young woman in that era. But it was all fairly clean.
Conflict including violence:
An abduction that was anything but gentle. A fight scene between two people who called themselves brothers was a scene not recommended for children. And a scary accident that included a baby and injury to the woman carrying him.
Faith:
• Trail boss was a man of faith, beginning each day with prayer.
• The Gruener family were clearly Christians, sharing Christ's love and words of wisdom from scripture.
• Thomas struggled with whether God really cared about the troubles and prayers of His people. He'd faced such hardship with the deaths of his parents, and a subsequent abduction. No matter what he prayed, it seemed he wasn't heard. We see his struggle, we see him coming to terms with God, and the revelation that God was with him throughout, bringing him to a point in his life for a particular purpose. Lovely.
The tale is thickened with adventure, fears and sadness, but also tender discovery and remarkable scenery along the way.
Oh, and as with most in this series, it's a stand alone. There's very little that needs referencing to the previous books. FYI: historical background at the end is informative as well.
Wonderful writing! Very good book!
November 23, 2018
At first this the book felt like it might be a slower read, but it quickly won me over with the never-ending adventure and action and needing to know how things would turn out for Thomas and Kate. The difficulties they experienced in the Wilderness was exciting, yet concerning and scary. The author kept me wondering what she would through in the path of these characters next and by the 60% mark I didn't want to put the book down.
I loved the interesting names of Thomas' sisters and the interaction between the siblings. Kate was also a very interesting main character and I enjoyed seeing her thoughts and feelings. The romance was also sweet and not overpowering to the historical richness of this story.
This book was also a great representation of what the consequences are if we hold on to our bitterness, anger and hatred and allowing that to dictate our next steps, allowing it to break down relationships instead of bringing reconciliation.
I'm loving this series and highly recommend this to fans of historical romance.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
I loved the interesting names of Thomas' sisters and the interaction between the siblings. Kate was also a very interesting main character and I enjoyed seeing her thoughts and feelings. The romance was also sweet and not overpowering to the historical richness of this story.
This book was also a great representation of what the consequences are if we hold on to our bitterness, anger and hatred and allowing that to dictate our next steps, allowing it to break down relationships instead of bringing reconciliation.
I'm loving this series and highly recommend this to fans of historical romance.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
January 23, 2019
A wonderful historical read! The history is fascinating and the detail much appreciated by this reader. Wonderful characters, beautiful faith thread, and a touching love story all combine to make a great addition to this series.
This was my first book by this author, and I hope to read more. It’s a very realistic story for it’s time period, and the love story is one that grows- my favorite kind! I really do highly recommend this read!
This was my first book by this author, and I hope to read more. It’s a very realistic story for it’s time period, and the love story is one that grows- my favorite kind! I really do highly recommend this read!
October 7, 2018
I adore, I breath, I ravish, I live history. I'm a major history buff. I'm a history nerd/geek and proud of it!
With that being said, I truly enjoyed this 5th book in Mayflower Brides series. The author took her time researching the territory and the trail in late 1700's. With her words, I can actually visualize everything she penned down. This had to be hard for her to write this because of the time period with the slaves and the indians. I know for a fact in that time period, life was hard especially after the Revolutionary War where there were bitterness among the traitors and the Tories.
This is a light contemporary Christian romance novel. It can be a stand-alone alone novel which I had no problem reading. I normally don't care for romance but in this book, it was more realistic.
The traveling from Shenandoah Valley to Cumberland Gap to find a place to find a home was a breathtaking, mesmerizing, daring, and daunting task to travel by foot/horses in those days. There was hardly any wagon in those days yet. Covered wagons came later. This is the period of time I would have so loved to live in that fresh clean wilderness. I wouldn't mind the hardship because I would be embracing life.
I truly embraced living in the book for several hours.
The only problem I have with this book is at the beginning of the book where a genealogy tree was revealed. Bear with me, I love family trees. But I'must not comprehending how that tree and the family in the story match up. Am I missing g something here?
I'm going to give this book a low four stars because of the political correctness of the indians and the slavery. I know the author held back because she wanted to focus more on other aspects of the book, rightfully so and the family tree which threw me off. I applaud the author for doing her research on history, genealogy, and geography for this book.
I would not mind picking up earlier books and am looking forward to the next installments. Cannot wait!
I received this adventurous ARC from Barbour Books through Net Galley in an exchange for my unbiased and honest review. Thank you!
With that being said, I truly enjoyed this 5th book in Mayflower Brides series. The author took her time researching the territory and the trail in late 1700's. With her words, I can actually visualize everything she penned down. This had to be hard for her to write this because of the time period with the slaves and the indians. I know for a fact in that time period, life was hard especially after the Revolutionary War where there were bitterness among the traitors and the Tories.
This is a light contemporary Christian romance novel. It can be a stand-alone alone novel which I had no problem reading. I normally don't care for romance but in this book, it was more realistic.
The traveling from Shenandoah Valley to Cumberland Gap to find a place to find a home was a breathtaking, mesmerizing, daring, and daunting task to travel by foot/horses in those days. There was hardly any wagon in those days yet. Covered wagons came later. This is the period of time I would have so loved to live in that fresh clean wilderness. I wouldn't mind the hardship because I would be embracing life.
I truly embraced living in the book for several hours.
The only problem I have with this book is at the beginning of the book where a genealogy tree was revealed. Bear with me, I love family trees. But I'must not comprehending how that tree and the family in the story match up. Am I missing g something here?
I'm going to give this book a low four stars because of the political correctness of the indians and the slavery. I know the author held back because she wanted to focus more on other aspects of the book, rightfully so and the family tree which threw me off. I applaud the author for doing her research on history, genealogy, and geography for this book.
I would not mind picking up earlier books and am looking forward to the next installments. Cannot wait!
I received this adventurous ARC from Barbour Books through Net Galley in an exchange for my unbiased and honest review. Thank you!
July 17, 2018
Another wonderful historical adventure romance in the Mayflower series! One of my favorites in this series so far, this epic road trip begins in 1794 Tennessee and ends in Kentucky as the group travels along the newly expanded Wilderness Road through the Cumberland Gap.
This well written tale pulled me in and had me holding my breath at times, as the tension mounts later on with perilous situations. The romance is a slow build to a sizzling, sigh-worthy one, well worth the angst. I fell a little in love with Thomas, the strong, brooding sacrificial hero. He was a bit of a Joseph type whose past was the key to the present needs of the moment. A flawed hero whose faith struggles move from doubt to hope and trusting in God as "the Way, the Truth and the Life."
Kate was a sweet, lovely, courageous young woman whose own faith grows through her ordeal, as she clings to the promise that God is with her and never abandons His children. The history is seamlessly threaded throughout the story without any dry narrative. I enjoyed reading the author's notes at the end with research highlights.
Historical Christian romance fans will probably enjoy this book. Recommend! 4.5 stars
(An e-book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
This well written tale pulled me in and had me holding my breath at times, as the tension mounts later on with perilous situations. The romance is a slow build to a sizzling, sigh-worthy one, well worth the angst. I fell a little in love with Thomas, the strong, brooding sacrificial hero. He was a bit of a Joseph type whose past was the key to the present needs of the moment. A flawed hero whose faith struggles move from doubt to hope and trusting in God as "the Way, the Truth and the Life."
Kate was a sweet, lovely, courageous young woman whose own faith grows through her ordeal, as she clings to the promise that God is with her and never abandons His children. The history is seamlessly threaded throughout the story without any dry narrative. I enjoyed reading the author's notes at the end with research highlights.
Historical Christian romance fans will probably enjoy this book. Recommend! 4.5 stars
(An e-book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
December 20, 2018
A wonderfully done historical with romantic tension that has you on the edge of your seat. The beautiful descriptions of the Cumberland Gap down to the specific flowers blooming has you seeing the picturesque setting and feeling like you are viewing it through the characters eyes. I found myself weeping when Thomas and Kate are with Flying Clouds....shhhh I cant say more or it will be a spoiler. Well written and extremely well researched and the cover matches the detailed description of the dress used for a special occasion in the story. I’ve enjoyed all five books in The Daughters of the Mayflower series. Barbour Publishing has done an exceptional job. I also enjoyed that the author added Author’s Note and Historical Note at the end to give a better understanding of the story and time period. Excellent job and highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
July 25, 2018
Having read a story about a young girl captured by Indians when I was younger, I was curious to read this new Christian romance about another young woman whose family is travelling to Kentucky through Indian territory.
Given the topic, there was plenty of action and suspense as Kate Gruener and her family, along with other settlers navigate the dangerous route to their new home. Thomas Bledsoe, a reticent but experienced post carrier and scout captures Kate's eye as they travel together. Thomas is captivated by Kate's beauty but is reluctant to be drawn into a friendship.
A sweet little romance that could easily be enjoyed by both YA and adult readers.
Given the topic, there was plenty of action and suspense as Kate Gruener and her family, along with other settlers navigate the dangerous route to their new home. Thomas Bledsoe, a reticent but experienced post carrier and scout captures Kate's eye as they travel together. Thomas is captivated by Kate's beauty but is reluctant to be drawn into a friendship.
A sweet little romance that could easily be enjoyed by both YA and adult readers.
July 20, 2018
Having gone to college in TN and being familiar with the Cumberland Gap, I found the setting and history to be interesting and well done. The cover is gorgeous, as all in this series have been. The writing itself was good, the author having a firm grasp on craft. However the story started slow and didn’t really pick up until 60% in. There wasn’t much to set it off in way of uniqueness either, but, then again, I’ve read so much that it is hard to find a story that is truly unique. Overall, this is a well-written story and fans of this series will really like this addition.
October 14, 2018
Journeying with one's family over trails - mere footpaths - on foot, with few horses, and no wagons in 1794 ranks at the top of the list of terrifying accomplishments that the settlers of the United States managed and that absolutely astound me. I have long been highly respectful of early people and how they lived and what they accomplished. The story of The Cumberland Bride is just that sort of account. True, it involves a sweet bride, but that is not the story. The story is one of endurance. A long list of dangers and terrors and accidents that seemed to plague them as they made their way along the trails.
Kate Gruener seems to find trouble or it seems to find her. She, like many of the young ladies during that time, were held to a different set of rules of decorum even through they were in the wilderness and life was vastly different from that expected in towns and cities.
Couple the rigors of actually walking a trail in the forest wilderness for many days and coping with fear of Indians who don't want the white people settling their lands with mind and body numbing accidents and no time or place to recover and you have a story of harrowing experiences.
The author's descriptive skills of the land, the dangers, the troubles, the accidents, the character development, and the action keeps the reader turning page after page consumed with interest and absorbed by the fear they experienced.
I highly recommend this story.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing to facilitate a review of my own opinions. My opinion is freely given.
Kate Gruener seems to find trouble or it seems to find her. She, like many of the young ladies during that time, were held to a different set of rules of decorum even through they were in the wilderness and life was vastly different from that expected in towns and cities.
Couple the rigors of actually walking a trail in the forest wilderness for many days and coping with fear of Indians who don't want the white people settling their lands with mind and body numbing accidents and no time or place to recover and you have a story of harrowing experiences.
The author's descriptive skills of the land, the dangers, the troubles, the accidents, the character development, and the action keeps the reader turning page after page consumed with interest and absorbed by the fear they experienced.
I highly recommend this story.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing to facilitate a review of my own opinions. My opinion is freely given.
June 9, 2019
"The Cumberland Bride" by Shannon McNear was an interesting addition to the series. The novel is Christian historical fiction and there are many references to faith and prayer.
Firstly, let me explain that I had no idea what the Cumberland Gap was before I read this book. Now, thanks to the author, I am much wiser. The Cumberland Gap was also known as the Wilderness Road. Basically, it was a route discovered in 1750, which enabled settlers to travel from Virginia to Kentucky across the Appalachian Mountains. It was a dangerous and sometimes treacherous route, because it was steep and provided many opportunities for falling down to your death or being ambushed by the native people.
Daniel Boone Escorting Settlers through the Cumberland Gap, oil on canvas, 1851–52 (via Wikipedia)
The main character Katarina Grace Gruener, known as Kate to her family, travels the Cumberland Gap with relatives and other settlers guided by mysterious and handsome Thomas Bledsoe. She is fascinated by him from the beginning. He thinks her pretty, but bookish and clumsy. The events in the book proves him right. I am sorry to say that the poor girl is the biggest nincompoop on the Wilderness Road. She constantly causes trouble for everyone. Don't get me wrong, she is a kind person, a good girl really, but she can be extremely cotton-headed. She wanders in the woods alone, when there is a danger of attack... She writes compromising things in her diary, that can be later read and discovered... I guess, she redeems herself at the end, when she shows courage in the face of danger, but sometimes she was behaving so silly it was difficult for me to read. Poor girl!
The first half of the book describes the settlers' travel with occasional mishap and growing fondness between Kate and Thomas. The second half is very dramatic with many dangers and some surprises. I liked that the native people weren't shown simply as villains. The author showed also their kindness.
I received "The Cumberland Bride" from the publisher via NetGalley. I would like to thank the author and the publisher for providing me with the advance reader copy of the book.
Firstly, let me explain that I had no idea what the Cumberland Gap was before I read this book. Now, thanks to the author, I am much wiser. The Cumberland Gap was also known as the Wilderness Road. Basically, it was a route discovered in 1750, which enabled settlers to travel from Virginia to Kentucky across the Appalachian Mountains. It was a dangerous and sometimes treacherous route, because it was steep and provided many opportunities for falling down to your death or being ambushed by the native people.
Daniel Boone Escorting Settlers through the Cumberland Gap, oil on canvas, 1851–52 (via Wikipedia)
The main character Katarina Grace Gruener, known as Kate to her family, travels the Cumberland Gap with relatives and other settlers guided by mysterious and handsome Thomas Bledsoe. She is fascinated by him from the beginning. He thinks her pretty, but bookish and clumsy. The events in the book proves him right. I am sorry to say that the poor girl is the biggest nincompoop on the Wilderness Road. She constantly causes trouble for everyone. Don't get me wrong, she is a kind person, a good girl really, but she can be extremely cotton-headed. She wanders in the woods alone, when there is a danger of attack... She writes compromising things in her diary, that can be later read and discovered... I guess, she redeems herself at the end, when she shows courage in the face of danger, but sometimes she was behaving so silly it was difficult for me to read. Poor girl!
The first half of the book describes the settlers' travel with occasional mishap and growing fondness between Kate and Thomas. The second half is very dramatic with many dangers and some surprises. I liked that the native people weren't shown simply as villains. The author showed also their kindness.
I received "The Cumberland Bride" from the publisher via NetGalley. I would like to thank the author and the publisher for providing me with the advance reader copy of the book.
April 5, 2020
"My shoes won't fit."
"Nothing wrong with that," he muttered. "Keep you from wandering off."
(1/16/19 update) I added a note about violence below.
The Cumberland Bride (2018, Barbour) by Shannon McNear, fifth in the multi-author Daughters of the Mayflower series, is a Christian historical romance set in 1794 Tennessee and Kentucky. The novel is a standalone story, with the previous books in the series focusing on previous generations of the Lytton/Chapman clan. (The heroine's mother is Jemima Lytton Gruener.) I wanted to read this book because two of the books in this series are by authors who are personal favorites. And I'm a completist, so that means I needed to read the entire series, of course!
Rating: 4 stars
The heroine: Katarina Gruener, or Kate, loves stories, and loves to write them down, much to the chagrin of her father. Her family is traveling "northward on the Wilderness Road" into Kentucky. Kate is a competent young lady, but she also seems to have a propensity for needing to be rescued. Given the difficulty of the journey, however, this tendency seems completely plausible.
The hero: Thomas Bledsoe has been hired as a scout to guide the Gruener family up north. He's very good at what he does. As a hero in a Christian fiction book, he seems to fall short, in that his faith in God is lacking. (This is later remedied, however.) He thinks of Mr. Gruener: "Just what they needed, a pack master who aspired to preach."
Historical background from Wikipedia: "The Cumberland Gap is a narrow pass through the long ridge of the Cumberland Mountains, within the Appalachian Mountains, near the junction of the U.S. states of Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee. Famous in American colonial history for its role as a key passageway through the lower central Appalachians, it was an important part of the Wilderness Road."
Christian elements: Specific prayers and Bible verses are quoted in this story, such as: "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, thou art with me." Also, Thomas' struggle with his faith in God is highlighted, and shows growth.
Is it clean/chaste? Yes!
(1/16/19 update) Note about violence:
What I liked:
*It seems that Ms. McNear has done her research. The story shows evidence of the author's attention to detail. "Much nonsense happening up around Boone's fort with the whiskey tax." Or, I would never have considered the need for the travelers to have "time to dry out their footgear before needing to walk a whole day again."
*I enjoyed the hero and heroine's curiosity about one another through their journey. It's portrayal seemed very realistic, except for the early jump-starting. (See below.)
What I didn’t like:
*Words or phrases not from the period. (Examples: "Like that would happen." "Just what they needed…" "footgear")
*Thomas' interest in Kate happens too quickly, before any significant interaction occurs between the two of them.
***********
The bottom line: This is a great wagon-train type story, though it's a packhorse-train instead. I recommend this book to fans of Christian historical fiction and those who have an interest in the Shawnee or American Indians in general. I look forward to reading more by this author, and would like to read The Highwayman. Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour for a free copy.
"Nothing wrong with that," he muttered. "Keep you from wandering off."
(1/16/19 update) I added a note about violence below.
The Cumberland Bride (2018, Barbour) by Shannon McNear, fifth in the multi-author Daughters of the Mayflower series, is a Christian historical romance set in 1794 Tennessee and Kentucky. The novel is a standalone story, with the previous books in the series focusing on previous generations of the Lytton/Chapman clan. (The heroine's mother is Jemima Lytton Gruener.) I wanted to read this book because two of the books in this series are by authors who are personal favorites. And I'm a completist, so that means I needed to read the entire series, of course!
Rating: 4 stars
The heroine: Katarina Gruener, or Kate, loves stories, and loves to write them down, much to the chagrin of her father. Her family is traveling "northward on the Wilderness Road" into Kentucky. Kate is a competent young lady, but she also seems to have a propensity for needing to be rescued. Given the difficulty of the journey, however, this tendency seems completely plausible.
The hero: Thomas Bledsoe has been hired as a scout to guide the Gruener family up north. He's very good at what he does. As a hero in a Christian fiction book, he seems to fall short, in that his faith in God is lacking. (This is later remedied, however.) He thinks of Mr. Gruener: "Just what they needed, a pack master who aspired to preach."
Historical background from Wikipedia: "The Cumberland Gap is a narrow pass through the long ridge of the Cumberland Mountains, within the Appalachian Mountains, near the junction of the U.S. states of Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee. Famous in American colonial history for its role as a key passageway through the lower central Appalachians, it was an important part of the Wilderness Road."
Christian elements: Specific prayers and Bible verses are quoted in this story, such as: "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, thou art with me." Also, Thomas' struggle with his faith in God is highlighted, and shows growth.
Is it clean/chaste? Yes!
(1/16/19 update) Note about violence:
What I liked:
*It seems that Ms. McNear has done her research. The story shows evidence of the author's attention to detail. "Much nonsense happening up around Boone's fort with the whiskey tax." Or, I would never have considered the need for the travelers to have "time to dry out their footgear before needing to walk a whole day again."
*I enjoyed the hero and heroine's curiosity about one another through their journey. It's portrayal seemed very realistic, except for the early jump-starting. (See below.)
What I didn’t like:
*Words or phrases not from the period. (Examples: "Like that would happen." "Just what they needed…" "footgear")
*Thomas' interest in Kate happens too quickly, before any significant interaction occurs between the two of them.
***********
The bottom line: This is a great wagon-train type story, though it's a packhorse-train instead. I recommend this book to fans of Christian historical fiction and those who have an interest in the Shawnee or American Indians in general. I look forward to reading more by this author, and would like to read The Highwayman. Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour for a free copy.
September 9, 2018
The series now focuses on the fifth and six generations of the Lytton family who are migrating in 1794 from Tennessee to Kentucky. The westward expansion movement is taking place. The main characters are Kate Greuner and her family who are traveling westward with two other families guided by Thomas Bledsoe, a frontiersman who had been taken as a young man by the Indians and spent 2 years with them before his release.
Kate is an independent young woman who dreams of love and romance and loves to read books and write in her journal. She thinks she is prepared to travel to Kentucky; but, sadly, doesn't understand how difficult that will be as the roads are too rough for wagons, and she'll be walking most of the way. Thomas Bledsoe isn't sure how this small group will do as he knows there is Indian unrest and may be trouble along the way. When Kate continually finds herself having one problem after another, Thomas seems to always be there to help her out of trouble.
Kate and Thomas are well developed, interesting characters who both grow and mature during their travels. The secondary characters round out the storyline. McNear's historical research was obvious in her knowledge of the interactions and feelings between the native Americans and the whites who were taking over their lands and hunting grounds. It was interesting to see how well Kate was treated by the Indians when they discovered that she was connected to Thomas Bledsoe known to them as Eyes of Sky. The idea of an Indian adopting a white to take the place of a dead member of their family and how well they honored them was something I did not know about.
Another good read in the Daughter of the Mayflower series.
Kate is an independent young woman who dreams of love and romance and loves to read books and write in her journal. She thinks she is prepared to travel to Kentucky; but, sadly, doesn't understand how difficult that will be as the roads are too rough for wagons, and she'll be walking most of the way. Thomas Bledsoe isn't sure how this small group will do as he knows there is Indian unrest and may be trouble along the way. When Kate continually finds herself having one problem after another, Thomas seems to always be there to help her out of trouble.
Kate and Thomas are well developed, interesting characters who both grow and mature during their travels. The secondary characters round out the storyline. McNear's historical research was obvious in her knowledge of the interactions and feelings between the native Americans and the whites who were taking over their lands and hunting grounds. It was interesting to see how well Kate was treated by the Indians when they discovered that she was connected to Thomas Bledsoe known to them as Eyes of Sky. The idea of an Indian adopting a white to take the place of a dead member of their family and how well they honored them was something I did not know about.
Another good read in the Daughter of the Mayflower series.
September 6, 2019
This is the first book I've read in the Daughters of the Mayflower Series and also the first time to read a book by Shannon McNear, it was an excellent book. You felt like you were right there with the characters of the book. I stayed glued to this book until the very end, it will have you laughing, crying, holding your breath and cheering. I felt she stayed very true to history and I really enjoyed reading the Author's Note at the end of the book. I look forward to reading more of the books in this series and more by this author. I received an ARC copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. The opinions in this review are my own.
August 7, 2018
McNear's attention to historical details and the ability to weave those so seamlessly into a compelling novel is incredible! This was a wonderful read!
October 10, 2018
The Daughters of the Mayflower series follows the descendants from that famous journey.
Book 1: The Mayflower Bride: Kimberley Woodhouse: pub Feb 1, 2018
Book 2: The Pirate Bride: Kathleen Y’Barbo: pub April 1, 2018
Book 3: The Captured Bride: Michelle Griep: pub May 15, 2018
Book 4: The Patriot Bride: Kimberley Woodhouse: pub July 15, 2018
Book 5: The Cumberland Bride: Shannon McNear: pub Oct 1, 2018
Book 6: The Liberty Bride: MaryLu Tyndall: expected pub Dec 1, 2018
Book Blurb: “Thomas Bledsoe and Kate Gruener are traveling the Wilderness Road when conflicts between natives and settlers reach a peak that will require each of them to tap into a well of courage.”
“Thus we behold Kentucky, lately an howling wilderness, the habitation of savages and wild beasts, become a fruitful field; this region, so favorable distinguished by nature, now become the habitation of civilization, at a period unparalleled in history, in the midst of a raging war, and under all the disadvantages of emigration to a country so remote from the inhabited parts of the continent.” –Daniel Boone, The Adventures of Colonel Daniel Boon[e] (1784)
This is a clean, faith-based story and our characters reflect their understanding of God through prayer, the quoting and reading of scripture and the gathering together for worship and was not done in a preachy manner. Many times, it was the simple thoughts of someone reaching the end of themselves and seeking a higher power. During times of self-doubt, trials, and danger, our characters reached for that strength beyond their understanding. That part was well done. I was amazed at the stamina and courage in the face of danger that our characters needed for the journey.
The Cumberland Gap: “Carved by wind and water, Cumberland Gap forms a major break in the Appalachian Mountain chain. First used by large game animals in their migratory journeys, followed by Native Americans, the Cumberland Gap was the first and best route for the settlement of the interior of the nation.” [u-s-history (dot) com]
I mainly wanted to read this next book in the series because my great-grandfather’s people came through the Cumberland Gap [considered the first great gateway to the west] and settled in KY just as the characters did in this fictional account. Travelers maneuvering the Cumberland Mountains [part of the Appalachian Mountains], journeyed through parts of Virginia and Tennessee before they reached the growing settlements being established in Kentucky.
What I didn’t like: Just a niggling point. I think the story bogged a bit due to the sheer volume of research the author had to wade through and decide what to use. It read more like a checklist of a map. We stopped Here, spent time There, camped Everywhere, skirted ravines, waded streams, crossed River-X, climbed Mountain-Y and traversed Ridge-Z.
What I did like: The characters and the budding love story between Bledsoe and Kate. Thank goodness this wasn’t an instant fall in love story. These guys fought hard in resisting a relationship. It was a lovely attraction and then the admiration and then falling in love. The dangers on this journey were genuine and several times it was made abundantly clear just how dangerous it was for travelers.
The time was 1794, a budding nation made up of men and women, from both sides in America’s quest for independence, who were tired of war. These hardy souls were willing to embrace the Western Expansion for a new life for their growing families. I could just see my relations among those walking and riding the trails with their pack horses. The trail, at that time, could not accommodate wagons or carts and many were forced to walk the distance, while a lucky few could ride. If you have ever seen the movie ‘Last of the Mohicans’ with Daniel Day-Lewis you will have an idea of what the terrain and the trail looked like. The movie was filmed in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina which is a segment of the Appalachian Mountain chain.
The interactions with the Indians was fascinating as well as heartbreaking. The author was most excellent in explaining how and why the Cherokee took captives and adopted them. Our story gave us a glimpse of a Cherokee father, Flying Clouds, and his adopted son Thomas Bledsoe [Eyes-of-Sky]. Some parts of this story were a bit heart wrenching, mainly because I knew what would happen within less than 50 years. The Trail of Tears 1839-1839, Andrew Jackson’s Indian removal policy, where the Cherokee Nation would be forced to give up its lands east of the Mississippi and migrate to an area that is present-day Oklahoma. I could not bear the thought of it. I just adored that old man.
At the end of the story, there was a section with the author’s notes that provided definitions for those archaic words used in the story. I was especially interested in the locations of points of interest along the trail. I enjoyed reading about the author’s research of the time.
After reading several of the previous books in this series, I requested and received a copy of this story from the publisher Barbour Books via NetGalley. The views expressed are my own. I am not commenting on the editing errors or the formatting as I received an uncorrected digital galley.
Book 1: The Mayflower Bride: Kimberley Woodhouse: pub Feb 1, 2018
Book 2: The Pirate Bride: Kathleen Y’Barbo: pub April 1, 2018
Book 3: The Captured Bride: Michelle Griep: pub May 15, 2018
Book 4: The Patriot Bride: Kimberley Woodhouse: pub July 15, 2018
Book 5: The Cumberland Bride: Shannon McNear: pub Oct 1, 2018
Book 6: The Liberty Bride: MaryLu Tyndall: expected pub Dec 1, 2018
Book Blurb: “Thomas Bledsoe and Kate Gruener are traveling the Wilderness Road when conflicts between natives and settlers reach a peak that will require each of them to tap into a well of courage.”
“Thus we behold Kentucky, lately an howling wilderness, the habitation of savages and wild beasts, become a fruitful field; this region, so favorable distinguished by nature, now become the habitation of civilization, at a period unparalleled in history, in the midst of a raging war, and under all the disadvantages of emigration to a country so remote from the inhabited parts of the continent.” –Daniel Boone, The Adventures of Colonel Daniel Boon[e] (1784)
This is a clean, faith-based story and our characters reflect their understanding of God through prayer, the quoting and reading of scripture and the gathering together for worship and was not done in a preachy manner. Many times, it was the simple thoughts of someone reaching the end of themselves and seeking a higher power. During times of self-doubt, trials, and danger, our characters reached for that strength beyond their understanding. That part was well done. I was amazed at the stamina and courage in the face of danger that our characters needed for the journey.
The Cumberland Gap: “Carved by wind and water, Cumberland Gap forms a major break in the Appalachian Mountain chain. First used by large game animals in their migratory journeys, followed by Native Americans, the Cumberland Gap was the first and best route for the settlement of the interior of the nation.” [u-s-history (dot) com]
I mainly wanted to read this next book in the series because my great-grandfather’s people came through the Cumberland Gap [considered the first great gateway to the west] and settled in KY just as the characters did in this fictional account. Travelers maneuvering the Cumberland Mountains [part of the Appalachian Mountains], journeyed through parts of Virginia and Tennessee before they reached the growing settlements being established in Kentucky.
What I didn’t like: Just a niggling point. I think the story bogged a bit due to the sheer volume of research the author had to wade through and decide what to use. It read more like a checklist of a map. We stopped Here, spent time There, camped Everywhere, skirted ravines, waded streams, crossed River-X, climbed Mountain-Y and traversed Ridge-Z.
What I did like: The characters and the budding love story between Bledsoe and Kate. Thank goodness this wasn’t an instant fall in love story. These guys fought hard in resisting a relationship. It was a lovely attraction and then the admiration and then falling in love. The dangers on this journey were genuine and several times it was made abundantly clear just how dangerous it was for travelers.
The time was 1794, a budding nation made up of men and women, from both sides in America’s quest for independence, who were tired of war. These hardy souls were willing to embrace the Western Expansion for a new life for their growing families. I could just see my relations among those walking and riding the trails with their pack horses. The trail, at that time, could not accommodate wagons or carts and many were forced to walk the distance, while a lucky few could ride. If you have ever seen the movie ‘Last of the Mohicans’ with Daniel Day-Lewis you will have an idea of what the terrain and the trail looked like. The movie was filmed in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina which is a segment of the Appalachian Mountain chain.
The interactions with the Indians was fascinating as well as heartbreaking. The author was most excellent in explaining how and why the Cherokee took captives and adopted them. Our story gave us a glimpse of a Cherokee father, Flying Clouds, and his adopted son Thomas Bledsoe [Eyes-of-Sky]. Some parts of this story were a bit heart wrenching, mainly because I knew what would happen within less than 50 years. The Trail of Tears 1839-1839, Andrew Jackson’s Indian removal policy, where the Cherokee Nation would be forced to give up its lands east of the Mississippi and migrate to an area that is present-day Oklahoma. I could not bear the thought of it. I just adored that old man.
At the end of the story, there was a section with the author’s notes that provided definitions for those archaic words used in the story. I was especially interested in the locations of points of interest along the trail. I enjoyed reading about the author’s research of the time.
After reading several of the previous books in this series, I requested and received a copy of this story from the publisher Barbour Books via NetGalley. The views expressed are my own. I am not commenting on the editing errors or the formatting as I received an uncorrected digital galley.
August 27, 2020
WOW! This book was so outstanding! I couldn’t put it down! I cried several times, smiled and laughed also. I thought this would be a light little read and instead it left me feeling so FULL. So full of history and scripture and just pure joy. The ending was PERFECTION. Now to read this author’s other books?!
October 8, 2018
The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear is a fabulous Christian historical novel and the fifth book in The Daughters Of The Mayflower series. It can be read as a stand-alone.
History comes alive for the reader as we journey with those early pioneers determined to conquer and settle in new territories. Along the way we encounter Native Americans, mishaps and we catch that pioneering spirit.
The novel shows the bravery and determination of those early settlers in 1794 as they pack up their lives and families, and travel on horseback into unchartered territory. Scouts were hired for their protection and knowledge of the land.
Family is important. They stick together and pull together.
In times of crisis characters turn to God in prayer. They receive internal peace despite external circumstances.
Life has dealt blows. "If God was so great and so merciful, why had He taken Mama?" God does not 'take' anybody out of spite. Illness and disaster happen. God does then receive souls. The school of hard knocks means people move away from God but He never moves away from us. When we cannot see or feel God, we need others to intercede for us. "Help him... know You are with him. Even if he thinks You are not."
The novel shows how God can take bad circumstances and turn them round for good. The reader is reminded that that is exactly what God did for Joseph in Genesis 49. God loves us and wants good things for us but sometimes free will interferes.
Within the story the reader witnesses the delicate relationship between the white and Native Americans. Both are wary of the other as the whites journey into the Native American lands.
The Cumberland Bride is a fabulous read. It is a tale of love, loyalty and a search to belong and be loved. It is a journey of discovery both literally and figuratively.
Absolutely marvellous.
I received this book for free from Barbour publishing on net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
History comes alive for the reader as we journey with those early pioneers determined to conquer and settle in new territories. Along the way we encounter Native Americans, mishaps and we catch that pioneering spirit.
The novel shows the bravery and determination of those early settlers in 1794 as they pack up their lives and families, and travel on horseback into unchartered territory. Scouts were hired for their protection and knowledge of the land.
Family is important. They stick together and pull together.
In times of crisis characters turn to God in prayer. They receive internal peace despite external circumstances.
Life has dealt blows. "If God was so great and so merciful, why had He taken Mama?" God does not 'take' anybody out of spite. Illness and disaster happen. God does then receive souls. The school of hard knocks means people move away from God but He never moves away from us. When we cannot see or feel God, we need others to intercede for us. "Help him... know You are with him. Even if he thinks You are not."
The novel shows how God can take bad circumstances and turn them round for good. The reader is reminded that that is exactly what God did for Joseph in Genesis 49. God loves us and wants good things for us but sometimes free will interferes.
Within the story the reader witnesses the delicate relationship between the white and Native Americans. Both are wary of the other as the whites journey into the Native American lands.
The Cumberland Bride is a fabulous read. It is a tale of love, loyalty and a search to belong and be loved. It is a journey of discovery both literally and figuratively.
Absolutely marvellous.
I received this book for free from Barbour publishing on net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
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