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The Keeper of Her Heart
She’ll defy society to choose a life of her own making.
Despite her wealthy upbringing in Yorkshire, Ada Thorne is determined to make her own choices, especially when it comes to love. After falling for a handsome, humble gamekeeper, she gives up everything familiar to marry him and begin a new life in London.
However, learning how to keep house and cook meals aren’t the only things Ada needs to master. In the wake of her parents’ continual rejection and the country on the brink of the First World War, Ada has to decide if she will choose compassion over bitterness, and faith over fear.
When the war’s sorrows take a personal turn, Ada must determine the depth of her own strength and her trust in Someone greater. Only then will she have the courage to move forward and embrace the future with a hopeful heart.
“Stacy Henrie possesses superior storytelling skills, her historical accuracy and attention to detail are unsurpassed, and she knows how to create characters we can identify with and whom we really care for.” —Fresh Fiction
About the Author:
USA Today bestselling author Stacy Henrie is the author of western romances, the anthology Love for All Seasons, and the Of Love and War series, which includes Hope at Dawn, a 2015 RITA Award finalist for excellence in romance. She was born and raised in the West, where she currently resides with her family. She enjoys reading, road trips, interior decorating, chocolate, and most of all laughing with her husband and kids. You can learn more about Stacy and her books by visiting her website at stacyhenrie.com.
Despite her wealthy upbringing in Yorkshire, Ada Thorne is determined to make her own choices, especially when it comes to love. After falling for a handsome, humble gamekeeper, she gives up everything familiar to marry him and begin a new life in London.
However, learning how to keep house and cook meals aren’t the only things Ada needs to master. In the wake of her parents’ continual rejection and the country on the brink of the First World War, Ada has to decide if she will choose compassion over bitterness, and faith over fear.
When the war’s sorrows take a personal turn, Ada must determine the depth of her own strength and her trust in Someone greater. Only then will she have the courage to move forward and embrace the future with a hopeful heart.
“Stacy Henrie possesses superior storytelling skills, her historical accuracy and attention to detail are unsurpassed, and she knows how to create characters we can identify with and whom we really care for.” —Fresh Fiction
About the Author:
USA Today bestselling author Stacy Henrie is the author of western romances, the anthology Love for All Seasons, and the Of Love and War series, which includes Hope at Dawn, a 2015 RITA Award finalist for excellence in romance. She was born and raised in the West, where she currently resides with her family. She enjoys reading, road trips, interior decorating, chocolate, and most of all laughing with her husband and kids. You can learn more about Stacy and her books by visiting her website at stacyhenrie.com.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2017
41 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Henrie
31 books856 followersStacy Henrie, a USA TODAY bestselling author, has always had a love for history, fiction, and chocolate. She earned her B.A. in public relations before turning her attentions to raising a family and writing inspirational historical romances. Wife of an entrepreneur husband and a mother to three, Stacy loves to live out history through her fictional characters. In addition to author, she is also a reader, a road trip enthusiast, and a novice interior decorator. Her books include Hope at Dawn, a 2015 Romance Writers of America RITA finalist for excellence in romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 18, 2017
This book starts out mild and unassuming, then packs an emotional punch, and wraps up with the happy ending you didn't think would happen. I slowly fell in love with each of the characters and their strength during times that become increasingly dangerous. Ada's devotion to Ned and her ideal for a home full of love and laughter despite her upbringing is wonderful and supports her during the trials she endures. I especially liked seeing Ada's spiritual journey throughout the book as her faith grew little by little with Ned and Minnie's examples. The historical nuggets from wartime London were fascinating and really made the story come to life in a special way. I can't fully comprehend what the people went through during that time, but this book offers a glimpse into the hardships and heartbreak, and also the hope and perseverance. Of course I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I felt like the middle part of the book is where I began to emotionally connect with Ada and her little circle of family and friends, and I shed some tears at several points in the story. It made the last part of the book that much sweeter as God's promises are fulfilled and Ada's joy deepens with an abundance of blessings. I loved the romance, the history, and the emotion in this unforgettable story!
(I received a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)
October 16, 2017
Stacy Henrie does it again! The Keeper of Her Heart was a phenomenal historical romance. It took me a few chapters to get completely into the story, but once I did I didn't want to put the book down.
The story had great characters and was emotional. It definitely kept me guessing and there were a couple scenes that had me on the edge of my seat.
I loved the setting and time period in which the book took place. I think if you are a fan of historical romances, and WWI books at that, you will enjoy The Keeper of Her Heart. I recommend it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
The story had great characters and was emotional. It definitely kept me guessing and there were a couple scenes that had me on the edge of my seat.
I loved the setting and time period in which the book took place. I think if you are a fan of historical romances, and WWI books at that, you will enjoy The Keeper of Her Heart. I recommend it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
September 25, 2017
While this story starts out a bit slow, it doesn't waste time with needless information. It wasn't too long before I was enveloped in the story and drawn along into the lives of Ada and Ned.
Ada exemplifies a tremendous amount of resolve to not only leave her parents, and the life of comfort and ease, but also to step out in faith. Ada learns to lean on God through the good times and the bad times, and she comes to understand that bad things happen to us all, but the universal truth is that God never leaves us.
This story is set in the early 1900's England, and goes thru the time of World War I. Readers will gain an intimate glimpse of what life may have been like for those in London during the air raid and bombings. As well as how the war changed the workforce in England, as more women joined the workforce.
I would highly recommend this poignant, well-written story to anyone who enjoys not only reading stories about WWI but also stories with strong heroines. I give this robust story 4.5 stars and I look forward to reading more from Stacy Henrie in the future.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Ada exemplifies a tremendous amount of resolve to not only leave her parents, and the life of comfort and ease, but also to step out in faith. Ada learns to lean on God through the good times and the bad times, and she comes to understand that bad things happen to us all, but the universal truth is that God never leaves us.
This story is set in the early 1900's England, and goes thru the time of World War I. Readers will gain an intimate glimpse of what life may have been like for those in London during the air raid and bombings. As well as how the war changed the workforce in England, as more women joined the workforce.
I would highly recommend this poignant, well-written story to anyone who enjoys not only reading stories about WWI but also stories with strong heroines. I give this robust story 4.5 stars and I look forward to reading more from Stacy Henrie in the future.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
February 14, 2018
Great book!
I enjoyed reading this book. There was so much in here to which I could relate through my own experiences. This is the first book by this author that I have read. She is now on my list of favorites.
I enjoyed reading this book. There was so much in here to which I could relate through my own experiences. This is the first book by this author that I have read. She is now on my list of favorites.
May 14, 2018
Beautiful StorIES!!
There are a couple stories written into one here. I loved BOTH! The writing was very descriptive, the characters realistic, the history "real", the love "dreamy", and the storylines superb! Thank you Stacy Henrie!
There are a couple stories written into one here. I loved BOTH! The writing was very descriptive, the characters realistic, the history "real", the love "dreamy", and the storylines superb! Thank you Stacy Henrie!
February 11, 2021
What a wonderful story of a young woman who would marry for nothing less than true love. Ada Thorne grows up in a very comfortable life and leaves it all behind to marry a gamekeeper. They move to London for an employment opportunity for Ned, where she has to learn to cook and clean their modest home, but they're happy, despite her parents breaking off all contact with her. When Ned is killed in battle in WWI, Ada relies on her newfound faith and her best friend Minnie to help her get through.
What an emotional book this turned out to be for me. There were so many emotions--happy when Ada and Ned were doing so well, heartbreak for them when they went through a rough patch due to an unexpected loss, worry when Ned went off to help with the war effort, more heartbreak and worry when Ada and their daughter were on their own, happiness at Minnie's wonderful friendship and when Ada discovered she could rely on God for help.
Stacy Henrie's writing made me feel as if I were in England in the time of the war and I was right there with Ada and Minnie. I loved the faith elements, as I don't know how I would get through something similar without relying on my faith in the Lord. I thought there was a good balance mentioning Ada's journey of faith without it being overdone or heavy-handed.
I LOVED Ada's grandmother, but was hesitant when Ada went to her parents to try to reconcile after so many years away. Their response surprised me in a good way and I was so happy things worked out. I was so glad Minnie and her family went with Ada when she moved back to the home where she grew up. I would've been very sad to have them separated since Minnie and her family had become part of Ada's family when she lived in London. This is a wonderful story with so many layers to it.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
What an emotional book this turned out to be for me. There were so many emotions--happy when Ada and Ned were doing so well, heartbreak for them when they went through a rough patch due to an unexpected loss, worry when Ned went off to help with the war effort, more heartbreak and worry when Ada and their daughter were on their own, happiness at Minnie's wonderful friendship and when Ada discovered she could rely on God for help.
Stacy Henrie's writing made me feel as if I were in England in the time of the war and I was right there with Ada and Minnie. I loved the faith elements, as I don't know how I would get through something similar without relying on my faith in the Lord. I thought there was a good balance mentioning Ada's journey of faith without it being overdone or heavy-handed.
I LOVED Ada's grandmother, but was hesitant when Ada went to her parents to try to reconcile after so many years away. Their response surprised me in a good way and I was so happy things worked out. I was so glad Minnie and her family went with Ada when she moved back to the home where she grew up. I would've been very sad to have them separated since Minnie and her family had become part of Ada's family when she lived in London. This is a wonderful story with so many layers to it.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
January 18, 2021
Stacy Henrie is a master at historical fiction, especially during the World Wars. In this offering, we are treated to the story of Ada, a young woman of class, in the early 1900s in England. Ada wants to marry for love and is determined to do just that, even if it means losing her relationship with her family. The story slowly builds as Ada forges a new life for herself and her new husband. Although it's not full of action at first, the plot isn't overly wordy and key points for Ada's story are shown, which play important roles as the book progresses.
The way things unfold allow the reader to emotionally invest in Ada's life, whether it be joyous times, hard times, or even surprises. I felt like I grew right along with her and especially enjoyed the tremendous growth that she did develop in many aspects of her life. Her strength is to be admired and she's a women whom I would love to be friends with.
A few things that I took away from this book: It's so easy to dream about how you hope your future will be and a completely different story to actually live it--it never works out how you think it will. You don't always realize what you have until it's gone and my heart broke for Ada a few different times, especially regarding the relationship with her parents. And finally, life isn't perfect; it requires a lot of hard work, but the joys can help balance the disappointments. Attitude is key.
This is a time period that I love learning more about, because I don't think it's written about very often--or maybe it's just that I don't read it often--but I found it fascinating and loved watching Stacy Henrie bring this time in history to life in a way that I never could have imagined.
Content: mild romance; mild violence; mild religious elements
*I received a copy, which didn't affect or influence my opinion in any way.*
Merged review:
Stacy Henrie is a master at historical fiction, especially during the World Wars. In this offering, we are treated to the story of Ada, a young woman of class, in the early 1900s in England. Ada wants to marry for love and is determined to do just that, even if it means losing her relationship with her family. The story slowly builds as Ada forges a new life for herself and her new husband. Although it's not full of action at first, the plot isn't overly wordy and key points for Ada's story are shown, which play important roles as the book progresses.
The way things unfold allow the reader to emotionally invest in Ada's life, whether it be joyous times, hard times, or even surprises. I felt like I grew right along with her and especially enjoyed the tremendous growth that she did develop in many aspects of her life. Her strength is to be admired and she's a women whom I would love to be friends with.
A few things that I took away from this book: It's so easy to dream about how you hope your future will be and a completely different story to actually live it--it never works out how you think it will. You don't always realize what you have until it's gone and my heart broke for Ada a few different times, especially regarding the relationship with her parents. And finally, life isn't perfect; it requires a lot of hard work, but the joys can help balance the disappointments. Attitude is key.
This is a time period that I love learning more about, because I don't think it's written about very often--or maybe it's just that I don't read it often--but I found it fascinating and loved watching Stacy Henrie bring this time in history to life in a way that I never could have imagined.
Content: mild romance; mild violence; mild religious elements
*I received a copy, which didn't affect or influence my opinion in any way.*
The way things unfold allow the reader to emotionally invest in Ada's life, whether it be joyous times, hard times, or even surprises. I felt like I grew right along with her and especially enjoyed the tremendous growth that she did develop in many aspects of her life. Her strength is to be admired and she's a women whom I would love to be friends with.
A few things that I took away from this book: It's so easy to dream about how you hope your future will be and a completely different story to actually live it--it never works out how you think it will. You don't always realize what you have until it's gone and my heart broke for Ada a few different times, especially regarding the relationship with her parents. And finally, life isn't perfect; it requires a lot of hard work, but the joys can help balance the disappointments. Attitude is key.
This is a time period that I love learning more about, because I don't think it's written about very often--or maybe it's just that I don't read it often--but I found it fascinating and loved watching Stacy Henrie bring this time in history to life in a way that I never could have imagined.
Content: mild romance; mild violence; mild religious elements
*I received a copy, which didn't affect or influence my opinion in any way.*
Merged review:
Stacy Henrie is a master at historical fiction, especially during the World Wars. In this offering, we are treated to the story of Ada, a young woman of class, in the early 1900s in England. Ada wants to marry for love and is determined to do just that, even if it means losing her relationship with her family. The story slowly builds as Ada forges a new life for herself and her new husband. Although it's not full of action at first, the plot isn't overly wordy and key points for Ada's story are shown, which play important roles as the book progresses.
The way things unfold allow the reader to emotionally invest in Ada's life, whether it be joyous times, hard times, or even surprises. I felt like I grew right along with her and especially enjoyed the tremendous growth that she did develop in many aspects of her life. Her strength is to be admired and she's a women whom I would love to be friends with.
A few things that I took away from this book: It's so easy to dream about how you hope your future will be and a completely different story to actually live it--it never works out how you think it will. You don't always realize what you have until it's gone and my heart broke for Ada a few different times, especially regarding the relationship with her parents. And finally, life isn't perfect; it requires a lot of hard work, but the joys can help balance the disappointments. Attitude is key.
This is a time period that I love learning more about, because I don't think it's written about very often--or maybe it's just that I don't read it often--but I found it fascinating and loved watching Stacy Henrie bring this time in history to life in a way that I never could have imagined.
Content: mild romance; mild violence; mild religious elements
*I received a copy, which didn't affect or influence my opinion in any way.*
September 23, 2017
Ada Thorne defied her parents and chose a simple life with the man who owned her heart. Ned Henley, a gamekeeper, was not the husband her family wanted for the wealthy Ada, and they banished her from their lives. It was not easy for the young couple to move to London as newlyweds, but Ned’s strong faith in God would eventually give Ada the fortitude she needed to surmount the many obstacles they would face, especially when the Great War became a reality and Ned enlisted, reluctantly leaving Ada and her young daughter to fare for themselves while waiting for Ned to come home.
THE KEEPER OF HER HEART is such an emotional read, it required several tissues from this reader, not prone to tearful excesses. Stacy Henrie’s sharp eye for detail paints an extraordinarily vibrant picture of a young couple struggling to make it in a working class London neighbourhood. I rejoiced at their love; I smiled at Ada’s attempts at managing a humble household, of taking care of her baby, while mostly improvising, and with the help of her new friend Mollie. I loved reading how it was on the home front, when women took the jobs while the men were at war.
I have been a fan of Stacy Henrie’s almost from the beginning, and she has earned my respect because of her integrity and her care in preserving accuracy in historical romance. While it is a matter of preference I surmise, and some readers might prefer bountiful sex scenes to a more spiritual context, Ms. Henrie remains true to the values of the times and still writes captivating love stories that make the reader believe in true love, that touch the heart and in the case of THE KEEPER OF HER HEART, provide much food for thought. Once again, Stacy Henrie has written an exceptional story that I shall not soon forget.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
THE KEEPER OF HER HEART is such an emotional read, it required several tissues from this reader, not prone to tearful excesses. Stacy Henrie’s sharp eye for detail paints an extraordinarily vibrant picture of a young couple struggling to make it in a working class London neighbourhood. I rejoiced at their love; I smiled at Ada’s attempts at managing a humble household, of taking care of her baby, while mostly improvising, and with the help of her new friend Mollie. I loved reading how it was on the home front, when women took the jobs while the men were at war.
I have been a fan of Stacy Henrie’s almost from the beginning, and she has earned my respect because of her integrity and her care in preserving accuracy in historical romance. While it is a matter of preference I surmise, and some readers might prefer bountiful sex scenes to a more spiritual context, Ms. Henrie remains true to the values of the times and still writes captivating love stories that make the reader believe in true love, that touch the heart and in the case of THE KEEPER OF HER HEART, provide much food for thought. Once again, Stacy Henrie has written an exceptional story that I shall not soon forget.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
November 1, 2017
I was immediately drawn into the story and found the characters and setting to be very enjoyable. I did think that the ending, while sweet, was a little . That being said, I still loved the story and thought the writing was beautiful. If you are looking for a novel set during WWI, but more on the homefront, I'd recommend The Keeper of Her Heart.
October 7, 2017
Ada vowed to only marry for love to the dismay of her parents. So when she married the Gamekeeper, Ned, her parents followed through on their threat to disinherit her. Now isolated and in London, Ada must find a way to survive while war looms on the horizon. When World War One breaks out and her husband enlists, Ada must use her faith to remain strong. Unfortunately, her husband is killed sending her into freefall with a young child to care for and not a whole lot of options.
I picked this book up because it features one of my favorite but underrepresented time periods, World War One. And I really enjoyed the look into life in Britain during the Great War. The writing was lovely and the author does a good job of developing interesting characters.
However, I found several of the religious notes overly heavy-handed. It ended up breaking the fourth wall for me because they felt shoehorned in. There were parts which didn't bother me, particularly later in the book. I also felt the story started in the wrong place. I would have liked a little bit of how and why Ada fell in love with Ned. We got a lot of tell and not show. I also found the revelation that Hugh loving her at the 50% mark also in the wrong place, We needed hints earlier.
Ultimately, this ended up not being my cup of tea and because of the issues above I can only give this
Three Stars
*** I received an ARC from NetGalley
I picked this book up because it features one of my favorite but underrepresented time periods, World War One. And I really enjoyed the look into life in Britain during the Great War. The writing was lovely and the author does a good job of developing interesting characters.
However, I found several of the religious notes overly heavy-handed. It ended up breaking the fourth wall for me because they felt shoehorned in. There were parts which didn't bother me, particularly later in the book. I also felt the story started in the wrong place. I would have liked a little bit of how and why Ada fell in love with Ned. We got a lot of tell and not show. I also found the revelation that Hugh loving her at the 50% mark also in the wrong place, We needed hints earlier.
Ultimately, this ended up not being my cup of tea and because of the issues above I can only give this
Three Stars
*** I received an ARC from NetGalley
October 26, 2017
The Keeper of Her Heart follows Ada Thorne Henley over the course of several years and, in so doing, readers are given a glimpse into England from the beginnings of WW1 to its aftermath. History is intrinsically woven into Ada’s compelling story, and readers will be moved by the emotional ups and downs. Told almost in snippets, the novel sometimes hops forward several months – or even years – but this allows no scene to be wasted.
Ada is a very likable heroine whose courage, resolve, and vulnerability is inspiring and compelling. She quickly feels like a friend, and we become so wrapped up in her story that we feel each emotion with her. The cast of other characters are vivid and full of life, and Henrie knits them all together with a tender hand.
Bottom Line: The Keeper of Her Heart by Stacy Henrie is poignant and inspiring, the highs and lows of Ada’s life drawing the reader in wholeheartedly. The theme of God’s presence in times of joy as well as sorrow and fear walks hand-in-hand with Ada’s determined spirit and her compelling courage. Life doesn’t always work out the way we planned but in God’s hands we are held through it all.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Ada is a very likable heroine whose courage, resolve, and vulnerability is inspiring and compelling. She quickly feels like a friend, and we become so wrapped up in her story that we feel each emotion with her. The cast of other characters are vivid and full of life, and Henrie knits them all together with a tender hand.
Bottom Line: The Keeper of Her Heart by Stacy Henrie is poignant and inspiring, the highs and lows of Ada’s life drawing the reader in wholeheartedly. The theme of God’s presence in times of joy as well as sorrow and fear walks hand-in-hand with Ada’s determined spirit and her compelling courage. Life doesn’t always work out the way we planned but in God’s hands we are held through it all.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 6, 2021
This was a great love story. I just loved the characters. I enjoyed following Ada's life. She had really hard times but also great times. I fell for Hugh and his deep love over so many years. This is a really sweet, clean romance.
December 10, 2020
This poignant wartime story is tender, heat wrenching, and inspirational. I loved learning about Great Britain during World War 1 times. I love Ada’s growing faith and reliance on God as the book progresses.
January 21, 2021
This was a good story. It was fun to see Ada leave what she was used to and what she knew to follow love. She and Ned lived a great life and learned to live a new life away from what they knew. After losing Ned she was able to be strong and find joy while helping others. I was great to see her get yet another happily ever after. Love endures! What a crazy time it was back then.
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 12, 2019
A beautiful story of the struggles of a woman who marries against her family's wishes to a man of military background only to be left to take care of the household as he goes forth to protect the country... all in all, this is a wonderfully inspiring story that will carry you page by page into a time that we have forgotten. Where faith and our word meant more than money and success. Kudos!!
November 20, 2017
The Keeper of the Heart is a wonderful story. I loved Ada and felt a connection to her. A fabulous WWI era book.
4 1/2 stars
4 1/2 stars
February 12, 2021
I love and admire a strong heroine that shows her strength in the face in adversity and hardship, especially when she chooses the path that holds the most resistance and goes against the grain, to follow her heart and stand up for what she believes in, especially living in a difficult era. I found such a heroine in Ada Thorne, a woman that chose love over comfort and family duty, and giving up everything she knows to start a life with the man she loves.
Her faithfulness and determination shines brightly, even when faced with the most unimaginable circumstances. The thread of faith is interwoven magnificently throughout the novel, not only in Ada's life, but those that loved and supported Ada throughout her journey.
Masterfully written with such benevolence, you can't help but feel the emotional ties tugging your heartstrings when Ada's family is deeply affected by the war, and as she struggles with her faith when it is shaken to its core. I loved the faith aspect and appreciated that it was messy, true to life, and by no means preachy or heavy-handed, painting a redemptive picture that shows that God will meet you where you are.
Stacy Henrie's superb writing puts you right there in the heart of wartime England, showing the hardship and struggles many had to face during that time, and adding another layer to this incredibly story, giving even more depth and understanding. The characters are so well developed, and I found myself connecting with Ada and her journey more and more as I read on. I know The Keeper of Her Heart will always hold a special place in my heart, a truly touching experience, and one that I am so thankful I got to experience.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
Her faithfulness and determination shines brightly, even when faced with the most unimaginable circumstances. The thread of faith is interwoven magnificently throughout the novel, not only in Ada's life, but those that loved and supported Ada throughout her journey.
Masterfully written with such benevolence, you can't help but feel the emotional ties tugging your heartstrings when Ada's family is deeply affected by the war, and as she struggles with her faith when it is shaken to its core. I loved the faith aspect and appreciated that it was messy, true to life, and by no means preachy or heavy-handed, painting a redemptive picture that shows that God will meet you where you are.
Stacy Henrie's superb writing puts you right there in the heart of wartime England, showing the hardship and struggles many had to face during that time, and adding another layer to this incredibly story, giving even more depth and understanding. The characters are so well developed, and I found myself connecting with Ada and her journey more and more as I read on. I know The Keeper of Her Heart will always hold a special place in my heart, a truly touching experience, and one that I am so thankful I got to experience.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
September 30, 2017
I cannot say enough good things about The Keeper of Her Heart. I was drawn in from page one and held on right up until the very satisfying end.
Ada Thorne is the daughter of a wealthy family but she plans to marry for love not for position. She falls in love with a gamekeeper, Ned Henley, and she elopes with him. The two settle in London and begin their life together. As they work at building a life together, Ada longs for the relationship she had with her parents but due to her marriage, they are estranged. Ada and Ned work hard at their marriage and have a daugher, Rosemary. Ada is content until Ned decides to enlist in the military. Ned assures Ada of his love for her. He also helps Ada to develop a strong relationship with the Lord. She is able to get through Ned's enlistment due to God's help. Her world changes when Ned is killed in the line of duty. Ada's deep friendship and the Lord help her cope. Ada make the tough decision to return to her home and to her parents. When she does, God's plan for her life takes over.
The Keeper of the Heart shows us that sometimes God has a plan for us, that we never imagined. The book is so well written that you feel a part of the story. It is an emotional book that makes you cry one minute and rejoice the next.
I voluntarily received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ada Thorne is the daughter of a wealthy family but she plans to marry for love not for position. She falls in love with a gamekeeper, Ned Henley, and she elopes with him. The two settle in London and begin their life together. As they work at building a life together, Ada longs for the relationship she had with her parents but due to her marriage, they are estranged. Ada and Ned work hard at their marriage and have a daugher, Rosemary. Ada is content until Ned decides to enlist in the military. Ned assures Ada of his love for her. He also helps Ada to develop a strong relationship with the Lord. She is able to get through Ned's enlistment due to God's help. Her world changes when Ned is killed in the line of duty. Ada's deep friendship and the Lord help her cope. Ada make the tough decision to return to her home and to her parents. When she does, God's plan for her life takes over.
The Keeper of the Heart shows us that sometimes God has a plan for us, that we never imagined. The book is so well written that you feel a part of the story. It is an emotional book that makes you cry one minute and rejoice the next.
I voluntarily received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2021
The Keeper of her Heart by Stacie Henrie
Story: 5 stars
This was a beautiful, inspirational story of one woman’s journey of love, heartbreak, strength and faith.
It begins a few years before WW1 and takes us with our heroine through the war and many of the trials that people in London experienced during that time in history. Not in too much detail, although the author obviously did some research and includes one event that actually happened.
Our heroine chooses her life married to her sweetheart; poor and working hard, over her former life on an estate with servants.
Her adjustment to life without servants is handled realistically and the author gives her the time she needs to learn about her new way of life.
Heartbreaks and joys of various kinds ensue.
Eventually, her story has a part 2, and all the strength of character and body that she has acquired stand her in good stead.
She learns and grows and struggles and loves. Her story is inspirational and the characters that share her journey are wonderful!
It’s hard to categorize this book: women’s fiction and Christian fiction combined with clean romance is the best descriptor I can think of.
Inspirational and well worth the read!
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
Story: 5 stars
This was a beautiful, inspirational story of one woman’s journey of love, heartbreak, strength and faith.
It begins a few years before WW1 and takes us with our heroine through the war and many of the trials that people in London experienced during that time in history. Not in too much detail, although the author obviously did some research and includes one event that actually happened.
Our heroine chooses her life married to her sweetheart; poor and working hard, over her former life on an estate with servants.
Her adjustment to life without servants is handled realistically and the author gives her the time she needs to learn about her new way of life.
Heartbreaks and joys of various kinds ensue.
Eventually, her story has a part 2, and all the strength of character and body that she has acquired stand her in good stead.
She learns and grows and struggles and loves. Her story is inspirational and the characters that share her journey are wonderful!
It’s hard to categorize this book: women’s fiction and Christian fiction combined with clean romance is the best descriptor I can think of.
Inspirational and well worth the read!
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
January 1, 2021
Just a few pages into the book and I knew I was going to love it and needed to read more books by Stacy Henrie. Keeper of Her Heart was a well-researched historical fiction during the Great War and 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic.
There were several twists in the plot that were not at all expected, some welcome and some tragic...which just made for a splendid read. I had tears of sadness and gladness through this books, but all through it I was cheering Ada on. I especially enjoyed her faith journey as she developed a close relationship with God.
I was honestly saddened when the story was over, but I was definitely satisfied with the way it ended. I already have another Stacy Henrie book on my ebook to read soon. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and I am most grateful for the opportunity to have met this new, incredible author.
There were several twists in the plot that were not at all expected, some welcome and some tragic...which just made for a splendid read. I had tears of sadness and gladness through this books, but all through it I was cheering Ada on. I especially enjoyed her faith journey as she developed a close relationship with God.
I was honestly saddened when the story was over, but I was definitely satisfied with the way it ended. I already have another Stacy Henrie book on my ebook to read soon. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and I am most grateful for the opportunity to have met this new, incredible author.
December 16, 2020
This book is slower-paced than I personally usually like. The first third of the book especially, covered a lot of time (as showed several vignettes of Ada and Ned's life together, spread over a matter of years), but it didn't have much action. The day-to-day details were sweet but did make for a slow start. About 40-percent through the book is when it really picked up for me, since that's when my favorite character made more than just a brief appearance and become a main character. This is a sweet story and I particularly liked the insights about faith and God, which were poignant but not overly preachy.
I read a copy of this book provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I read a copy of this book provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
February 11, 2021
This book was not what I expected at all. Beautiful in it's entirety, and I don't want to spoil it, but each half of the book is brilliant on its own, but together, it's even more poignant and clear and tied together.
Warning- miscarriage and death and depression are all part of the story and the time period, but faith in God and growing in maturity and love are what make her thrive. I will be reading this again.
Clean romance, real life problems and struggles and relationship issues that are relevant in any time period. Real friendships that endure through anything.
I definitely recommend this book.
Warning- miscarriage and death and depression are all part of the story and the time period, but faith in God and growing in maturity and love are what make her thrive. I will be reading this again.
Clean romance, real life problems and struggles and relationship issues that are relevant in any time period. Real friendships that endure through anything.
I definitely recommend this book.
October 4, 2017
I too love British history. Thanks Stacy for the research you did to add reality to Ada's story.
The characters were well-developed and their emotions were strong and easy for me to feel. I cried throughout a lot of the story. There is so much sadness and yet they keep pushing forward to find happiness again. Very uplifting.
The cover of the book fits perfectly and I love the title amd feel like it's a good fit also.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy history and a good love story. It's packed full of goodness!
The characters were well-developed and their emotions were strong and easy for me to feel. I cried throughout a lot of the story. There is so much sadness and yet they keep pushing forward to find happiness again. Very uplifting.
The cover of the book fits perfectly and I love the title amd feel like it's a good fit also.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy history and a good love story. It's packed full of goodness!
January 1, 2021
Stacy Henrie holds true to form with this book.
A historical novel that portrays the struggle of life and love through the First World War.
I enjoyed reading this book as it shows how struggles can bring a person closer to God and friends and family if we let them in.
The story starts out with a basic storyline of a young love and developed into a striking premise of maturity and strength.
The author captured the joy of love and the pain of losses very true to life.
The story opens up possibilities of a good life despite hardships and a glimpse into history.
I recommend this book and author!
A historical novel that portrays the struggle of life and love through the First World War.
I enjoyed reading this book as it shows how struggles can bring a person closer to God and friends and family if we let them in.
The story starts out with a basic storyline of a young love and developed into a striking premise of maturity and strength.
The author captured the joy of love and the pain of losses very true to life.
The story opens up possibilities of a good life despite hardships and a glimpse into history.
I recommend this book and author!
January 19, 2021
This is the first “War” story I’ve read from this author. I read a historical western by her and loved it. This one, I had a hard time getting into. The story and history were interesting. As I continued reading, I was more drawn to the second half of the book. Ada was a strong woman to defy her parents and go for true love. I was impressed that she put aside her privileged ways and learned how to provide for her family. She overcame some horrible trials and was not bitter of resentful. She had a truly kind heart. If you enjoy history and a little romance, I would give it a read.
December 13, 2020
Before I started reading, I didn’t know anything about this book. No blurb or anything. The storyline was unexpected, but I really enjoyed the twists. A range of emotions were evoked and I didn’t want to stop reading. I really enjoyed the writing and insights into faith, trials and God’s love.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 11, 2021
I truly enjoyed this faith filled historical romance! Stacy Henrie does an excellent job of making you feel like you are experience all the events right there with the characters. I was rooting for Ada through the entire story!
I received an ARC from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
January 19, 2021
I loved this book! This book is essentially two stories in one as the main character Ada goes through a transformative process. The character development in this novel was great. Ada was determined to marry for love instead of money, which caused a rift between her and her parents. Through her journey we see themes of love, tragedy, perseverance, forgiveness, and faith.
January 21, 2021
This is a beautiful story! The life we lead, choices we make, friendships we build and faith we strengthen are all part of Ada. She has a stubbornness that keeps her moving in all her many heartbreaks and struggles. I love that Ada learns not only to develop faith, but to completely trust and live by it.
July 22, 2018
Such a sweet clean romance.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Stacy Henrie has an amazing way of sweeping you up in the story into the lives of the characters, to the point you dont want the book to end. Such a sweet story!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Stacy Henrie has an amazing way of sweeping you up in the story into the lives of the characters, to the point you dont want the book to end. Such a sweet story!
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