Caroline Adams returns to Indian Territory after tiring of confining society life. She wants adventure, and when she and her friend Amber come across swaggering outlaw Frisco Smith, they find his dreams for the new territory are very persuasive. With the much-anticipated land run pending, they may just join the rush.
Growing up parentless, all Frisco Smith wanted was a place to call his own. It's no wonder that he fought to open the Unassigned Lands. After years of sneaking across the border, he's even managed to put in a dugout house on a hidden piece of property he's poised to claim.
When the gun sounds, everyone's best plans are thrown out the window in the chaos of the run. Caroline and Frisco soon find themselves battling over a claim--and both dig in their heels. Settling the rightful ownership will bring these two closer than they ever expected and change their ideas of what a true home looks like.
Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her husband and four children.
Once again, Regina Jennings has given us a fun romp of a story, backed by fascinating history of a chaotic and exciting time in America. The vulnerability behind Frisco’s roguish exterior and the grit behind Caroline’s polished veneer make you care deeply for both of them – and cheer on their romance. Oh yes – and a goat named Bucky. The Major’s Daughter is another winner!
The Major’s Daughter is the third book in the Fort Reno series by Regina Jennings. It is best to read all three books in order but I enjoyed reading this book by itself. I hope to read the first two soon. Caroline Adams is returning to the Fort that her father, the Major commands after being in society in Galveston. She and her friend Amber decide to take a chance on the land run to stake a claim of their own in the Oklahoma Territory. It was fun to virtually be on the front lines to see how the operation of a land run played out. Was this a lark for Caroline, or was she truly planning to put down roots and stay on her claim the required time? Frisco Smith is an orphan and has long planned to make a home in the Unassigned Lands. He has been working hard to that end but gets a rude awakening when someone gets to his chosen spot ahead of him. That someone is none other than Caroline Adams, with whom he has a history. Can they come to an agreement? Join the fun as this imaginative story plays out. Are Frisco and Caroline the only ones with something at stake? Ms. Jennings sends some shifty opponents their way. If you want to learn some history along with an entertaining romance that has twists and turns, I recommend this Historical Christian Fiction story with a feisty heroine and noble hero who both want to honor God. *I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Although I have not read the first two books in this series, this read well as a stand-alone book; and I will most certainly go back and read the first two to find out the back story. The characters were unique and interesting with some good and some bad. The premise of the story is the Oklahoma land rush filled with those who so wanted a new start in life with land of their own. The problem, though, was the boomer sooners: those people who sneaked into the Oklahoma territory ahead of the designated time and grabbed some of the best land parcels.
Caroline Adams was one feisty, strong-willed, determined young woman who was tired of living under her parents rules and wanted to determine her own fate in life. Frisco Smith is an orphan who is dreaming of creating a community that will become the family he never had. Frisco had watched Caroline, the daughter of Fort Reno's commander, grow up; and she, in turn, had watched him and developed a crush on him. Will they be able to work out their differences when they both ride for the same piece of property?
Frisco's traveling case played such an important role in reminding him that he still hadn't found a family, and the ending showed that he finally understood what family he needed. Both he and Caroline learn that family can be formed many different ways and that sometimes the dreams you have aren't what God dreams for you and His dreams are always better.
"Sometimes you only get one chance to do it right."
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
I love Regina Jenning's writing. She writes in a vein similar to Karen Witemeyer. Both women guarantee a Western historical romance with heart and laughter. I know when I open one of Regina's books, I'll be able to relax into a story that will make me smile and leave me with a good feeling even as there's a light mystery of some sort and tension to keep the story moving. The Major's Daughter is not exception. I've been waiting for Caroline's story and I have to admit I was surprised by it, even though the series has been building to her. Don't worry, if you haven't read the other two books, you'll be fine, though you won't regret boing back to read the others. I love the way Regina explains it: "Yes, this is a love story, but as I was writing it, I realized that this is really my love story to my state and to the bold, audacious people who settled it. Just think about the daring it took to race with abandon for a home, and then the grit required to chisel out a town, a farm, a business from the dirt. Who were these people, and what brought them to Indian Territory? I feel like you only get one chance to tell a land run story, and this is mine. I hope you enjoy it and come away with an appreciation for what was accomplished here." If you open The Major's Daughter, you'll thoroughly enjoy it!
I was a *bit* disappointed by this one. I liked it, but I would have liked to see a bit of a flash-forward to see how everything turned out, and I also felt like the ending was rushed. That said, overall, I still really enjoyed it!
Caroline is a great character, Frisco was a lot better than I thought he'd be (I totally thought he'd be obnoxious but then I'd only seen Caroline's dad's POV of him, sooo?), and I loved their romance! Also, all the claim information was interesting. The situation they got themselves in was fantastic.
Also, these stories are always such a great combination of insane and realistic, funny and serious, etc.
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ This was a fun heartfelt story about people starting life after a land rush. There were ups and downs in this with friends, family and romance. I did enjoy this. If you like historical, clean romance then you’ll enjoy this.
This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own.
The Major’s Daughter by Regina Jennings is a fabulous conclusion to the Fort Reno Series. I’ve been following this series since book one, and each story—while able to be read as standalones—complimented each other in a charming way. I loved coming to know the characters and returning to Fort Reno for this series finale was almost like a reunion for me.
I’ve always been a fan of this author’s storytelling, and this novel was engaging from start to finish. First of all, I adore a strong heroine, and that’s exactly what I got with Caroline Adams. While she has the finesse and charm to grace the polished circles of society, she also has sass, grit and a thirst for adventure. What I love about Caroline is that she doesn’t want to be handed everything in life—something her upbringing as the Major’s daughter had afforded her—but she wants to carve her own path, and the land run gives her that very opportunity. Even though she planned everything out as much as she possibly could, she didn’t quite factor Frisco Smith into the equation.
I got to meet Frisco clear back in book one of the series. While he was an intriguing side character, he really shines as the hero in this story. I loved his vulnerable heart. And I adore the fact that no matter how much Caroline irks him, he can’t help but offer her aid when she needs it. It made for some major swoon-worthy moments!
Another thing that I absolutely LOVED about this book was the setting. This author painted each scene with such vivid imagery that I felt like I was dropped right into the excitement of the 1889 land run. I experienced the rush of excitement that came with the great race, but I also became more aware of grueling hardship that went along with establishing a home on the wild frontier. (I would’ve NEVER made it! Give me air conditioning and indoor plumbing! LOL)
All in all, this was a fun story filled with witty banter, charming characters, and a whole lot of heart!
I received a copy from the publisher/author. All opinions are my own.
The Major’s Daughter was an exciting wrap up to the Fort Reno series, yet I believe that readers could easily pick this novel up and enjoy it even if they have not read the previous books.
I enjoyed seeing the heart of the man that Frisco was. The way he worked to further truth and justice was admirable, as was the way he treated Caroline, even as they both wanted to claim the same homestead.
That Caroline! At first she really frustrated me with her stubbornness, fully knowing all of the work that Frisco had put into the land. However, she grew as a person throughout the book and won me over, as well. I enjoyed reading this fun story.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Regina Jennings can be counted on to deliver an engaging story with humor. What The Major's Daughter delivered as well was lots of history detail as well. What a fascinating event in US History...a land rush! Three hundred miles of starting line for a share of nearly two million acres of land. "Make a claim on a 160-acre homestead, and then we can decide whether we cotton to the farm or the town."
The two main characters were wonderful. My heart went out to Frisco who grew up an orphan changing "homes" frequently. To have his own home was a huge dream.
Favorite quote: "In Oklahoma Territory, any two people who can tolerate each other in August are in love."
This was my favorite of the series. I learned a number of things about the land rush that were fascinating. The author's note shared that there was a plethora of stranger than fiction kind of details to choose from.
Caroline and Frisco are engaging characters and definitely an unlikely couple! When she grabs the land he wanted in the Oklahoma land rush, he ends up taking land next door while she enjoys starting out in the dug-out he tried to sneak under the radar a few days before the rush. Are you already imagining the potential sparks? Oh, yes, there are sparks!
Soon the plot gets complicated by evidence that someone in the area is conspiring to steal land in the new frontier town, and several of Caroline and Frisco's new friends get mixed up in the shady deals. Maybe at last they can quit squabbling and work together to save their friends' businesses and homes? Or is that too much to ask?
A really fun story set on the old prairie.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
There is plenty of history in this exciting tale of the land run and the genesis of new towns and homesteads! Caroline and Frisco appeared in the previous books, but this one really explores their personalities and ambitions. They respected each other in their past roles, but now they are each branching out into new territory, literally! They begin to drive each other nuts before they engage in a conflict over a piece on land, but as they try to convince one another to just give up, they interact more and get involved in something bigger than they anticipated. I felt like the character development got lost a bit in the telling of the event's history, and I was filled with anxiety as I waited to see what the outcome of the dispute would be. Other issues arose for the characters which increased the sense of anxiety and suspense as I read. The new issues overshadowed Caroline and Frisco's dilemma and I felt that their resolution was a bit anticlimactic in comparison. I enjoyed the characters from the previous books, and it was great to see all the stories come full circle.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Clean, historical romance, set during the time period of rushing to stake your claim for a homestead. But it can get tough when 2 people want the same claim. Well defined characters. Enjoyable read. Can be read as stand alone.
Regina Jennings tells us the story of the land rush in Oklahoma when the territory was opened to homesteaders. Jennings’s main players in The Major’s Daughter are Caroline, born to privilege and respect; and Frisco Smith, who comes from an orphanage but gains respect through his lobbying for land for the common man. I gained respect for so many people as I read this book. For the Indians, who had been driven off their land, and made many false promises. For those men like Frisco, opportunists, yes. Yet, they were the ones who scouted out the new Unclaimed Territories and brought back to civilization the depiction of what life there could be. For those who, like the Major, had the responsibility to oversee the fairness of the land distribution on the day the lands were opened. Oy vey, the headaches! And last, but not least, for the people themselves who bravely attempted to race to claim the land, only to be hoodwinked, or beaten by Sooners, the capricious weather, or circumstances. I liked the depictions of human nature as they emerge in the brand-new town of Plainwell. Will Caroline and Frisco get what they are really searching for, or will they settle for more than they bargained for? For me, a wonderful history/sociology lesson wrapped up in an attractive, delectable story. Thank you, Ms. Jennings. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This does not affect my opinions, which are solely my own.
What a ride! These two were sparking from the start and I loved every moment as they worked through the good, bad, and the ugly. The vastness of the land rush and mass of humanity spread across the prairie was a sight for my mind's eye to behold. That folks were willing to build farms and towns literally from the ground up is inspiring and impressive. I loved all the spunky characters in this series and I highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in a giveaway and was under no obligation to provide a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
The Major's Daughter is the final book in Jennings' Fort Reno series and another very good read. I found the storyline interesting and loved learning some history about that time.
The characters were great! I felt like they were written in such a way that make them realistic and I loved getting to know them all.
All in all, The Major's Daughter was a great read and I definitely recommend the series.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
The final of Jennings Fort Reno series. The two main characters weren't really endeared to me. There just seemed like something was off or perhaps not written for my thought process. I was more interested in the historical moment of the land rush. I think I was looking for more character explanation.
I really enjoyed this latest book in the Fort Reno series. Hope it isn't the last. (Daisy deserves a story of her own, right?) Interesting bit of history with the Land Rush, followed by the hard beginnings of homesteads and towns from scratch. The characters grew on me. I liked them a lot more as the story went on. They transform into better people through their experiences. Seemed to both start out rather self centered and manipulative. Their banter was a lot of fun to read. Head to head verbal combat turns into flirtatious and caring conversations later. The author includes a lot of research with enough detail to be authentic, but never boring. Enjoyed the sighworthy ending. 4.5 stars
A very well written book, no editorial errors, this book is part of a series, but could be read as a stand alone book, In somebooks the main characters are nothing more than a name in a story line, but in this story (and the series in general) the author really does have a talent for developing characters that can offer a great depth of feeling and emotion to the reader. With out putting in any spoliers, the story line is very interesting, constantly throughout the book, the route of the story is clear and easy to follow for the reader, without being too complicated, the story really does provide a enjoyable book to read, The book cover is nice. Well worth a read.
This was definitely my favorite out of this whole series. I loved reading Caroline’s story now that she has grown up. She’s so feisty. I really liked reading more about Frisco too. I loved the chemistry between them. The land run and the excitement of it was so contagious to me even as a reader. I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Concluding the Fort Reno series, The Major’s Daughter completes Caroline’s story of growing up and discovering her own path in life. After years of chafing under the control of others, the Oklahoma territory’s land rush might just be what she needs to make her own way and become a woman of independence. But her success means another’s failure, and the stakes are simply too high for either of them to be willing to let go.
Frisco had it all planned out, but he never anticipated Caroline’s return to the fort, and certainly didn’t forsee her beating him to the land he planned to claim himself. He cannot understand her determination to keep the land for herself when it means giving up the only life she has ever known to work exceptionally hard, especially when she could continue living with her father at Fort Reno.
The sparks between these two fly from the beginning, and because they both want the same land, it seems almost impossible that they could get a happy ending together. I was left a little unsettled as I read; there is no clear-cut “right” answer to their dilemma and I wasn’t sure that it was solvable to the satisfaction of everyone.
The setting is distinctly Oklahoma—from the wild storm to the idea that falling in love in August is true love with the heat and humidity making everyone cranky, I would find it hard to believe this story working in another place. And the history is fascinating. While I learned about the land rush in school many years ago, this novel really brought it to life for me, illustrating the excitement, stress, and incredibly high stakes involved in following the lure of “free” land. And when not everyone is committed to playing by the rules, should a person look out for only themselves, or help take care of the others who are trying to win fairly?
This is a great book with fun characters who feel like old friends by the end of the story. They are well-developed people who have both good qualities and bad, who can be incredibly generous at the same time they are remarkably stubborn, and who happen to fall in love with their biggest competition. The plot is entertaining and unpredictable, and I thoroughly enjoyed taking the trip with Caroline and Frisco. I highly recommend this novel for those who like historical romance, especially for those interested in Oklahoma’s history or in the land rush itself.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
The final book in the Fort Reno series hits all the right targets. The Major’s Daughter is a history lesson, romance, and comedy all rolled into one wonderful read.
I loved that Regina Jennings brings two characters readers met in the first book in the series to the forefront. Caroline and Frisco have matured, and we get to discover the people the ensuing years have shaped them into.
Caroline has gone from the entitled and spoiled major’s daughter to a woman who longs to forge her own path. She’s smart, determined, classy, and a little sassy (especially when it comes to any interaction with the men in her life).
And while Caroline has matured, Frisco has made a complete 180 in his life. He’s a man with a mission—and a conscience. Even though he had his own dreams and plans, he remains a gentleman to Caroline who throws up a roadblock to said dreams and plans and has a heart to see justice reign.
As a bonus, Amber and Bradley get some page time in this book and readers of the full series will enjoy the cameos from fictional friends. And if you haven’t read the series, no worries, this read stands just fine on its own. Whichever category you fall into, you’ll find a lot to love about The Major’s Daughter.
Disclosure statement: I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The great race to claim then settle the land. I loved this story! I felt like I was there, watching everything unfold. The details were so clear and the characters so real. Surprise runners, corruption, and unconventional romance, this story has it all! Caroline and Frisco, each one longing for something more, independence and a place to belong. I loved the determination in homesteading Caroline shows. I would not have imagined it from the girl we first met in Holding the Fort. Her stubbornness, yes, farm work and living alone in a dugout, not so much. I admired the woman she becomes. Frisco has grown into a man with a good reputation. I didn't really like that he made firm plans for something that wasn't really his but it was an important part of the story. I liked the sense of responsibility he few to keep his word. I loved the bickering between Caroline and Frisco! The flirting and flattery from years past have new meaning for them in this book. I say that as someone who has loved this series but knowing that each book can be read as a stand-alone. I highly recommend reading or listening to this book. Regina Jennings is a wonderful storyteller! Amy Melissa Bentley is a wonderful narrator. *I purchased and listened to the audio version of this book. I also read a complimentary paperback copy. A review was not required. The opinion expressed is entirely my own.
Regina Jennings does it again! The Major's Daughter is such an enjoyable historical fiction set in 1889 Oklahoma Territory during the Land Run made possible by the Homestead Act. Though it's book 3 in the Fort Reno series, it can be read as a stand alone. I'm sure that those readers who have been following this series will be delighted to revisit the Adams family from the first book, especially now that the Adams' eldest daughter is all grown up and commandeering her own land. The author's writing is easy to follow and the plot moves smoothly. The conflict between Caroline Adams, our tender-hearted but tough and fiery heroine, and Frisco Smith, our determined, justice-seeking, and intelligent hero, is so much fun to watch as they battle with words and actions. Even in the midst of their battle, they learn to appreciate each other as they try to right the wrongs they see around them. The way Caroline's tenderness wraps around Frisco is exceptionally sweet as is the way Frisco makes room for Caroline to find her place in the world.
If you enjoy historical fiction, especially about the wild west before it was tamed, this book and the series is definitely for you. I received a copy of the book from Bethany House and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
I'm a total history buff and I loved learning about the Oklahoma Land Rush in the late 1800's. This is the 3rd book in the Fort Reno series and I enjoyed all the books. Caroline has been in all the books so it was fun watching her grow up and have her own story. Also, she's always been fascinated by Frisco Smith, even as a youngster. It started out as a little crush when she was young and Frisco was always getting into trouble when her dad was the Major at the Fort but now the Land Rush is happening and Caroline wants to get some land of her own and carve out a future for herself. She's a sassy young lady and she doesn't need a man to help her! Frisco has never had a family and he's going to make his own town by getting some land in this Land Rush. When Caroline thwarts his plans, how is he going to handle it? These two strong characters constantly butt heads but will they see that they really belong together?
I enjoyed this story, and could just picture these people at the line waiting to cross to a new life, and the race and for some disappointment. Then there were the cheaters, and thus we have a story! I loved how the author used a primitive [in today’s standards] to prove that some were not honest, but you will have to read this to find out how. There is a bit of romance, storms, and compassion here, and all for a better life. When the character of Frisco is introduced, I found myself disliking him, but wow did my opinion changed! Then there is Caroline, and I loved her, what a strong considerate woman, full of gumption and dreams. This read came alive for me, and when I finished I really wanted more!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House and was not required to give a positive review.
The Major’s daughter is a good read. The historical setting being the Oklahoma Land Run was well done and was my favorite part of the story. Oklahoma is finally being settled and treated as a state. ( I was born in Oklahoma, and I lived there seven years). The plot of who and how a town was settled was very good.
Frisco was an easy going person who only wanted a home. Caroline was a determined woman who didn’t want to live in her father’s fort. These characters were well written, but I didn’t really connect with them. My favorite characters were the secondary ones-Amber and Bradley.
The author fit Christianity well into the characters in the way they acted- nice and happy.
The author supplied the reader with many different storylines, and over all I truly enjoyed this book.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
What’s not to love about this one....from the historical aspect of the land run to the hilarity to the romance. It had me from the get go. I was so glad Caroline has her own story and is a more grown up version of her younger self found in the first book of the series. Throw in Frisco and learning more of his growing up years and you have a story full of spunk, sassiness, laugh out loud moments. You just can’t go wrong with a Regina Jennings book as it is entertainment to the max. I would suggest you read the first two books in the series as you don’t want to miss out, but if not The Major’s Daughter works as a stand-alone. I’m sad to see this series end as the characters become like old friends that you don’t want to let go. Highly recommended. I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
The Major’s Daughter by Regina Jennings was the perfect closure to my Christmas break. I read this book in 2 days, and was enthralled every step of the way. This third installment of Jennings’s Fort Reno series is, in my opinion, the best yet. Featuring all the characters we have come to know and love over the course of this trilogy, Jennings wraps all the loose ends up with her hallmark fast paced plot, intriguing historical quirks, and enough tension to keep those pages turning.
I particularly loved the outrageous setting – the Oklahoma land race. Learning about all the crazy entrepreneurial and shady dealings of the time was the perfect backdrop to this feisty romance. Lovers of historical fiction will adore this story. I guarantee it!
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.