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A Heart of Gold
They'll have to conquer more than the Klondike Trail to reach her father in time; they'll have to overcome their past too.
After months of silence from her father in the Klondike, Tava Rutherford finally receives word from him. Only the outdated letter reveals that her father is ill and may be dying. Desperate to discover his fate, Tava resolves to make the journey to the wilds of northwestern Canada. But Jess Lawmen, her ranch foreman and the man who broke her heart, insists she doesn't go alone. Jess intends to keep his promise to look out for her—even if that means traveling thousands of miles with Tava, the woman he claims to feel just friendship for but has never stopped loving.
With their own ragtag group of travelers in tow, Tava and Jess confront one challenge after another as they join the hundreds of stampeders scrambling to reach the goldfields. But as the two of them come face to face with their past hurts and mistakes in their race to reach Tava’s father, they will have to decide whether to cling to safety or risk their hearts for something even greater.
After months of silence from her father in the Klondike, Tava Rutherford finally receives word from him. Only the outdated letter reveals that her father is ill and may be dying. Desperate to discover his fate, Tava resolves to make the journey to the wilds of northwestern Canada. But Jess Lawmen, her ranch foreman and the man who broke her heart, insists she doesn't go alone. Jess intends to keep his promise to look out for her—even if that means traveling thousands of miles with Tava, the woman he claims to feel just friendship for but has never stopped loving.
With their own ragtag group of travelers in tow, Tava and Jess confront one challenge after another as they join the hundreds of stampeders scrambling to reach the goldfields. But as the two of them come face to face with their past hurts and mistakes in their race to reach Tava’s father, they will have to decide whether to cling to safety or risk their hearts for something even greater.
250 pages, ebook
Published September 15, 2020
About the author
Stacy Henrie
31 books855 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 47 reviews
September 22, 2020
3.5-4*
If you are a fan of learning more about history while reading books, this one is great for that. I really thought it very interesting reading about Tava and Jess's travels along the Klondike trail. Those who were going along it to stake a claim and mine for gold had to be very focused and very resolute. It sounds very grueling and intense. I was quite content to enjoy reading about it and I'll stick to hiking around my mountains for fun.
I would describe this as a sweet story. I've read a few reviews and noticed that's how other reviewers are describing it and I would have to agree. The whole time I was reading it, sweet, was the word that kept popping up in my mind. It's also a story about finding oneself and coming to terms with one's past. Allowing for healing and growth and change to happen. As well as realizing that all of those things happen in other's lives as well. We're all constantly changing and growing and holding onto past mistakes just holds us back. We can let go, forgive ourselves and others and move forward with that constant burden holding us down. I think that both Tava and Jess needed to learn those lessons along their journey of the Klondike Trail. They figuratively and literally learned to lay down and lighten their loads. It was sweet watching them do so.
I loved the friendships they made along the way. Another great analogy for us readers for life. Letting go of those loads and embracing friendships and relationships along the way. The relationships help in the unburdening. The way that Tava and Jess helped others around them and their newfound friends helped them was great. I thought a lot about those living in that time and striking out on their own, those newfound friends were probably a great boost to their morale and lives.
The romance is sweet but not quite the main focus of the story. But at the same time it partially drives the story (aside from Tava searching for her father). I enjoyed watching how Tava and Jess wanted the best for each other and even though they skirted around each other a lot, their thoughts and actions showed their love for the other...although they couldn't quite see that. You'll have to read the book to understand fully what I mean by all of that.
When you're ready for a great adventure of self discovery plus some great history that real adventurers experienced, grab this sweet story and you'll find yourself cheering on all these characters to the very end!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril associated with traveling the Klondike Trail.
I received a copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
If you are a fan of learning more about history while reading books, this one is great for that. I really thought it very interesting reading about Tava and Jess's travels along the Klondike trail. Those who were going along it to stake a claim and mine for gold had to be very focused and very resolute. It sounds very grueling and intense. I was quite content to enjoy reading about it and I'll stick to hiking around my mountains for fun.
I would describe this as a sweet story. I've read a few reviews and noticed that's how other reviewers are describing it and I would have to agree. The whole time I was reading it, sweet, was the word that kept popping up in my mind. It's also a story about finding oneself and coming to terms with one's past. Allowing for healing and growth and change to happen. As well as realizing that all of those things happen in other's lives as well. We're all constantly changing and growing and holding onto past mistakes just holds us back. We can let go, forgive ourselves and others and move forward with that constant burden holding us down. I think that both Tava and Jess needed to learn those lessons along their journey of the Klondike Trail. They figuratively and literally learned to lay down and lighten their loads. It was sweet watching them do so.
I loved the friendships they made along the way. Another great analogy for us readers for life. Letting go of those loads and embracing friendships and relationships along the way. The relationships help in the unburdening. The way that Tava and Jess helped others around them and their newfound friends helped them was great. I thought a lot about those living in that time and striking out on their own, those newfound friends were probably a great boost to their morale and lives.
The romance is sweet but not quite the main focus of the story. But at the same time it partially drives the story (aside from Tava searching for her father). I enjoyed watching how Tava and Jess wanted the best for each other and even though they skirted around each other a lot, their thoughts and actions showed their love for the other...although they couldn't quite see that. You'll have to read the book to understand fully what I mean by all of that.
When you're ready for a great adventure of self discovery plus some great history that real adventurers experienced, grab this sweet story and you'll find yourself cheering on all these characters to the very end!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril associated with traveling the Klondike Trail.
I received a copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
September 17, 2020
Sweet romance that begins on Tava's family ranch in Montana. Tava thought their romance was going to blossom after ranch hand Jess returned from a nine month departure, however, instead of blossoming Jess squashed their romance altogether. Devastated, Tava learns to ignore her more than friends feelings for Jess.
Some time later Jess and Tava travel to northwest Canada to find her ill father. Tava's father went to mine gold in hopes of saving the family ranch from bankruptcy. It was interesting to learn what was involved with the journey and I loved the friendships that formed between strangers to assist each other through a grueling time. The author does a nice job of weaving historical information into the novel and sharing additional details in her author's note following the novel.
I adored secondary character Dusty.
Some time later Jess and Tava travel to northwest Canada to find her ill father. Tava's father went to mine gold in hopes of saving the family ranch from bankruptcy. It was interesting to learn what was involved with the journey and I loved the friendships that formed between strangers to assist each other through a grueling time. The author does a nice job of weaving historical information into the novel and sharing additional details in her author's note following the novel.
I adored secondary character Dusty.
September 15, 2020
This book is very sweet and very gentle. Those are the two very best words I can come up with to describe it. The characters are believable, their motives are mostly believable and genuine. It was very easy to like both Tava and Jess. I liked how Jess's story unfolded and how it came around in the end.
I guess I thought this story would be more. The blurb makes it sound like a grand adventure through Canada but the adventure and the danger felt gentle. The characters, gentle. I wanted more build, more emotion, just more. The story does have a nice, steady pace that stays consistent throughout the book.
If you like your books gentle, this is definitely one to pick up.
3/5 stars
Content: mild peril, mention of drinking and alcohol abuse, a couple instances of kissing.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I guess I thought this story would be more. The blurb makes it sound like a grand adventure through Canada but the adventure and the danger felt gentle. The characters, gentle. I wanted more build, more emotion, just more. The story does have a nice, steady pace that stays consistent throughout the book.
If you like your books gentle, this is definitely one to pick up.
3/5 stars
Content: mild peril, mention of drinking and alcohol abuse, a couple instances of kissing.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 8, 2020
This is a sweet story about 2 people holding back feelings for years. They each had their own reasons and very believable ones. I appreciated that. They get in a tough spot and have to go on an adventure together. I really like books like this and read all of this, but ended up just wanting more. More adventure, more romance, more danger, more feelings. So it is a nice little story but I kept wishing. It is written well and flows well.
September 21, 2020
A long journey brings two hearts home.
Tava and Jess have known each other for a long time. There was a point where there was a blossoming romance, but it was broken unexpectedly. Tava has had to pick up the pieces of her heart and move on as a friend to Jess, even though it has been difficult.
A letter comes from her father, who is trying to make money in the Klondike gold rush, that he is ill and not expected to survive. She can't live without knowing how her father is, or not being there for him for his final days. She and Jess embark on a hard journey that have them scaling mountains and braving the rapids.
I enjoyed both Jess and Tava's characters. Jess is tormenting himself about the mistakes he made in the past and doesn't feel worthy of Tava. Tava is a young women who cares about the people around her. Together they are better than when they are apart. This book has them taking a physical journey, but it is the mental and emotional level that is the driving force of the plot.
The book is paced well and interesting. At times I felt that Jess focused a little much on his mistakes instead of giving himself credit for turning his life around. I think the book could have had a little less of the negative and hurtful parts of their past and concentrated more on the healing and on moving forward. That was the only part that I struggled with, but it was a minor irritation to me. It didn't stop me from wanting to keep reading or lessen my enjoyment of the story.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Tava and Jess have known each other for a long time. There was a point where there was a blossoming romance, but it was broken unexpectedly. Tava has had to pick up the pieces of her heart and move on as a friend to Jess, even though it has been difficult.
A letter comes from her father, who is trying to make money in the Klondike gold rush, that he is ill and not expected to survive. She can't live without knowing how her father is, or not being there for him for his final days. She and Jess embark on a hard journey that have them scaling mountains and braving the rapids.
I enjoyed both Jess and Tava's characters. Jess is tormenting himself about the mistakes he made in the past and doesn't feel worthy of Tava. Tava is a young women who cares about the people around her. Together they are better than when they are apart. This book has them taking a physical journey, but it is the mental and emotional level that is the driving force of the plot.
The book is paced well and interesting. At times I felt that Jess focused a little much on his mistakes instead of giving himself credit for turning his life around. I think the book could have had a little less of the negative and hurtful parts of their past and concentrated more on the healing and on moving forward. That was the only part that I struggled with, but it was a minor irritation to me. It didn't stop me from wanting to keep reading or lessen my enjoyment of the story.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
December 12, 2020
A solid western historical romance, this story portrays the Klondike gold rush and a second chance romance in such a way that readers will be engrossed in both the relationship between Tava and Jess and the excitement and adventure surrounding their travels.
Read full review in the 2020 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2020 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 22, 2020
Four years ago Tava thought she and Jess, one of their ranch hands, were starting a relationship, when he told her all they could be was friends. Flash forward four years--Tava receives a letter from her father who's gone to the Klondike saying that he's taken ill, so Tava decides to go after him because she can't stay at the ranch not knowing if he's dead or alive. Jess won't let her go alone so they both set off on the long, arduous journey from Montana. Traveling with the man who broke her heart four years ago won't be easy, but Tava doesn't know that Jess still has feelings for her. This is going to be quite a journey for these two in more ways than one.
I enjoyed this tender love story. Jess doesn't know how much he hurt Tava four years ago, and she doesn't know why he suddenly put the brakes on their budding relationship, because he never told her.We find out about Jess' background during the trip and why he thinks he's not good enough for Tava, which he mentions quite a bit. Jess needed to forgive himself for the mistakes in his past, learn from from them, leave them there and move on or they'd hold him back from having a full and happy life.
I liked the other characters who joined Tava and Jess on their way to the Klondike. I don't think they would've made it by themselves. I liked how they all worked together on the trip. I liked how the author weaves in history with the story and I learned things about the Klondike gold rush I didn't know before. I'm not going to give any details, but I really liked the ending because it gave closure to all of the characters.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
I enjoyed this tender love story. Jess doesn't know how much he hurt Tava four years ago, and she doesn't know why he suddenly put the brakes on their budding relationship, because he never told her.We find out about Jess' background during the trip and why he thinks he's not good enough for Tava, which he mentions quite a bit. Jess needed to forgive himself for the mistakes in his past, learn from from them, leave them there and move on or they'd hold him back from having a full and happy life.
I liked the other characters who joined Tava and Jess on their way to the Klondike. I don't think they would've made it by themselves. I liked how they all worked together on the trip. I liked how the author weaves in history with the story and I learned things about the Klondike gold rush I didn't know before. I'm not going to give any details, but I really liked the ending because it gave closure to all of the characters.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
October 31, 2020
I've been a fan of Stacy Henrie's books for years, so I was eager to read this new story...and I loved it!
The book takes you on a wonderful journey with ups and downs - at times I truly didn't know what would happen next.
I loved the romance between Tava and Jess...it was sweet to see their relationship progress.
All in all, A Heart of Gold was an amazing read and I recommend it.
*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 book takes you on a wonderful journey with ups and downs - at times I truly didn't know what would happen next.
I loved the romance between Tava and Jess...it was sweet to see their relationship progress.
All in all, A Heart of Gold was an amazing read and I recommend it.
*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.*
September 24, 2020
Sweet journey
This story reminded me a bit of that old animal adventure movie, The Incredible Journey. Tava and Jess embark on a journey to the Klondike to find out if her father (and his employer) is still alive and the ragtag crew they find themselves traveling with rounded out the story.
Everyone has issues to work through, but Jess's seem heavier than usual and this rough and tough trek seemed more mental and emotional for him than it was physical. In fact, it seemed that way for most of the group and I was really hoping for a grand (and difficult) expedition. Even though their trip wasn't as perilous as I was hoping for, Jess and Tava were both likable characters and their growth was satisfying.
Sweet and gentle, for the most part, along with redemption, are recurring threads running throughout this book and it was an enjoyable trip through the pages to take.
Content: mild romance; mild religion; talk of drinking; mild danger
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
This story reminded me a bit of that old animal adventure movie, The Incredible Journey. Tava and Jess embark on a journey to the Klondike to find out if her father (and his employer) is still alive and the ragtag crew they find themselves traveling with rounded out the story.
Everyone has issues to work through, but Jess's seem heavier than usual and this rough and tough trek seemed more mental and emotional for him than it was physical. In fact, it seemed that way for most of the group and I was really hoping for a grand (and difficult) expedition. Even though their trip wasn't as perilous as I was hoping for, Jess and Tava were both likable characters and their growth was satisfying.
Sweet and gentle, for the most part, along with redemption, are recurring threads running throughout this book and it was an enjoyable trip through the pages to take.
Content: mild romance; mild religion; talk of drinking; mild danger
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
August 10, 2020
Well written, and well paced book. Enjoyed reading about the history and journey of reaching the Yukon during the gold rush era. Loved Jess and Tava’s story and their journey of friendship to love. This is a newer author to me, but I look forward to reading more from Stacy Henrie!
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.
June 26, 2020
My favorite part of this book was how the ending tied the whole story together so perfectly! I thought it was the best way to bring the journey to a close. It is the perfect read when you’re in the mood for a sweet romance.
September 23, 2020
I’m always up for a historical romance with great characters. This book by Stacy Henrie is one of those. I enjoyed everything about it. Especially the fact that it is set in the wilds of Alaska.
Tava is the main female lead. She’s headstrong, missing her father, and in love with Jess. Even though she will not admit it. I loved that she was willing to take the hard route and travel to Alaska, not knowing what she’d find. That would have been a hard trip. There were times of cold, not enough food and motion sickness. But there was also friendship and love. That’s what made the rough times worth it.
Jess is a good guy. He’s not about to let Tava travel to Alaska on her own. He loves her too much for that. Even though he also wouldn’t tell her that. Both of these characters are a bit stubborn. I think that was a good thing on their hard trip. But it makes the love story a bit difficult.
I loved the extra characters that these two find along their way. They really made the story come alive. The conditions that they dealt with on their trip really did need the extra people. I can’t even imagine trying to make this trip.
I loved this book! Hoping for more like this one soon.
I was sent a copy of A Heart of Gold as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Tava is the main female lead. She’s headstrong, missing her father, and in love with Jess. Even though she will not admit it. I loved that she was willing to take the hard route and travel to Alaska, not knowing what she’d find. That would have been a hard trip. There were times of cold, not enough food and motion sickness. But there was also friendship and love. That’s what made the rough times worth it.
Jess is a good guy. He’s not about to let Tava travel to Alaska on her own. He loves her too much for that. Even though he also wouldn’t tell her that. Both of these characters are a bit stubborn. I think that was a good thing on their hard trip. But it makes the love story a bit difficult.
I loved the extra characters that these two find along their way. They really made the story come alive. The conditions that they dealt with on their trip really did need the extra people. I can’t even imagine trying to make this trip.
I loved this book! Hoping for more like this one soon.
I was sent a copy of A Heart of Gold as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 4, 2020
I won an advanced copy of this delightful book. Here is my unbiased review:
A Heart of Gold is a delightful, poignant love story set on a journey to the Klondike during the Gold Rush in 1898. The rich historical details and the setting allowed me to take a picturesque journey along with the characters. I will read this novel again and have even started learning more about the Klondike Gold Rush. And best of all, the book is clean and inspirational:)
A Heart of Gold is a delightful, poignant love story set on a journey to the Klondike during the Gold Rush in 1898. The rich historical details and the setting allowed me to take a picturesque journey along with the characters. I will read this novel again and have even started learning more about the Klondike Gold Rush. And best of all, the book is clean and inspirational:)
February 9, 2021
An exciting adventure story of the journey Tava takes to discover what happened to her missing father. I can't even imagine not being able to communicate with loved one across long distances, but the reality is that many never saw or heard from family members again after relocating. It's pretty risky for Tava to follow her father into the Klondike, but it shows the level of devotion she has for him. Jess and she have a rocky relationship since his rejection of her, but he's also devoted to keeping her safe. Their proximity and challenges in the wilderness allow them the opportunity to reconcile and reveal the secret that is keeping them apart. Recommend to fans of Misty M. Beller and Mary Connealy!
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.
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.
August 9, 2020
I love historical fiction and learning new things. I don't always read the author's notes in books, but in this case I recommend it!
I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. The friendships, the family ties, the communication, the strangers pulling together to help each other...all made for a compelling story I didn't put down until I was done.
Sometimes we're harder on ourselves than anyone else. This was a sweet reminder that we all make mistakes and deserve the chance to move on from that by forgiving ourselves — and giving those around us the opportunity to do the same.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. The friendships, the family ties, the communication, the strangers pulling together to help each other...all made for a compelling story I didn't put down until I was done.
Sometimes we're harder on ourselves than anyone else. This was a sweet reminder that we all make mistakes and deserve the chance to move on from that by forgiving ourselves — and giving those around us the opportunity to do the same.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. Not only were the characters a good mix of stubborn and compassionate but it was great to read about a moment in history that is mostly told from a mans perspective. Seeing it through a woman's eyes made me see this moment in time through a softer lens. Great read like all of Henrie's books.
September 21, 2020
I received an eARC of this book via the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
Sweet, second-chance romance….my favorite! A Heart of Gold by Stacy Henrie is a standalone, historical romance that takes you to the rough terrain of the Klondike Trail during the height of the gold rush. This exciting, and often-times, breath-taking adventure is filled with hope, love, and laughter as Tava searches for her ill father with the man she can never have.
Octavia Rutherford, Tava for short, grew up working on her father’s ranch. Her mother died when she was young, and it was only her and her father after that. This shaped Tava into the woman we know. She’s tough as nails, but kind and gentle when she needs to be. She can do anything a ranch-hand can, most likely, do it better. Tava isn’t like the other women in town. She’d rather be in work clothes than fancy dresses, and she isn’t searching for a beau either because she gave her heart away to their foreman years earlier.
Jess Lawmen came to the Rutherford ranch when he was just a kid himself in a heap of trouble. If it wasn’t for Tava’s father, he wouldn’t be the man he is today. Jess credits him for straightening out his life. While we aren’t given the whole story up front, it’s clear to the reader this is a tortured man. He berates himself for the sins of his past and breaking Tava’s heart years earlier. He feels that he will never be good enough for her and takes the choice out of her hands. Jess is a good man, the man we know anyways. Every action he takes is in the benefit of others. He never does anything without thinking through the consequences and how it will affect those in his company, especially Tava.
The plot of the book follows Tava and Jess as they travel to the Klondike after news that her father has taken ill and may already be dead reaches them. Devastated and determined to find him, Tava is ready to set off on her own, but Jess will not allow that. He offers to go in her stead, but the stubborn Tava won’t allow that. So they find themselves traveling together. The tension between the two is palpable, and at times I hurt for one or both of them. They so clearly care for one another. I love how the author allows their story to unfold at a natural pace. The trials of the Klondike adds suspense and danger, keeping me turning the pages long into the night until the book was finished!
Overall I really enjoyed A Heart of Gold. Tava and Jess are two characters that I won’t soon forget. The excitement of the gold rush adds to the story as our travelers meet others on the trail. I liked the side characters just as much as the two main! If you enjoy historical romance, I highly recommend it.
Sweet, second-chance romance….my favorite! A Heart of Gold by Stacy Henrie is a standalone, historical romance that takes you to the rough terrain of the Klondike Trail during the height of the gold rush. This exciting, and often-times, breath-taking adventure is filled with hope, love, and laughter as Tava searches for her ill father with the man she can never have.
Octavia Rutherford, Tava for short, grew up working on her father’s ranch. Her mother died when she was young, and it was only her and her father after that. This shaped Tava into the woman we know. She’s tough as nails, but kind and gentle when she needs to be. She can do anything a ranch-hand can, most likely, do it better. Tava isn’t like the other women in town. She’d rather be in work clothes than fancy dresses, and she isn’t searching for a beau either because she gave her heart away to their foreman years earlier.
Jess Lawmen came to the Rutherford ranch when he was just a kid himself in a heap of trouble. If it wasn’t for Tava’s father, he wouldn’t be the man he is today. Jess credits him for straightening out his life. While we aren’t given the whole story up front, it’s clear to the reader this is a tortured man. He berates himself for the sins of his past and breaking Tava’s heart years earlier. He feels that he will never be good enough for her and takes the choice out of her hands. Jess is a good man, the man we know anyways. Every action he takes is in the benefit of others. He never does anything without thinking through the consequences and how it will affect those in his company, especially Tava.
The plot of the book follows Tava and Jess as they travel to the Klondike after news that her father has taken ill and may already be dead reaches them. Devastated and determined to find him, Tava is ready to set off on her own, but Jess will not allow that. He offers to go in her stead, but the stubborn Tava won’t allow that. So they find themselves traveling together. The tension between the two is palpable, and at times I hurt for one or both of them. They so clearly care for one another. I love how the author allows their story to unfold at a natural pace. The trials of the Klondike adds suspense and danger, keeping me turning the pages long into the night until the book was finished!
Overall I really enjoyed A Heart of Gold. Tava and Jess are two characters that I won’t soon forget. The excitement of the gold rush adds to the story as our travelers meet others on the trail. I liked the side characters just as much as the two main! If you enjoy historical romance, I highly recommend it.
January 4, 2021
This historical romance is set on the Klondyke trail during the Alaskan gold rush days. Octavia (Tava) has loved Jess for years, but he made it clear years ago that they could only be friends. But when Tava’s dad sends a note to her at the ranch from the Alaskan gold fields, suggesting he might be dying, she determines to get to him no matter what. Jess goes with her, so she is not alone. On their journey, they pick up new friends to help them make the journey and have to work out their tangled relationship. What a journey it is. This book revealed how grueling and demanding the trip to the Klondyke was. So hard! It’s a well-written book, but I had a hard time sticking with it and found it easy to set down. The characters didn’t capture me as much as I’d hoped until the last quarter of the book. Before that, I wasn’t bonded to them as I am to characters in other books. For me, the best part of the book was the last quarter. It was a trudging journey the rest of the time. I found Tava annoying much of the time. I really liked her and Jess by the end, but it took me a while to really be on her side. Still, for learning about the gold rush, this was a good book to read. Well-researched and a decent love story.
August 16, 2020
This historical romance was well written and had well developed characters. I have to admit I found the journey a bit challenging but I am sure the people who traveled it in life did for sure.
I enjoyed the strength of both characters and the comfort they found in God, each other and friends a great example of what people can experience.
I enjoyed the strength of both characters and the comfort they found in God, each other and friends a great example of what people can experience.
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September 21, 2020Review to come
September 16, 2020
This was a fun story. To watch Jess and Tava go through their struggles and help each other. To see their relationship grow as they worked together to be better. It was fun to read and experience their growth experiences, successes and failures. It just helped them be stronger.
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.
September 19, 2020
A Heart of Gold is probably my favorite I have read to date by Stacy Henrie. I loved this historical. The details were so vivid, I felt like I had been transported back in time with Tava. I was intrigued with her story from the first page to the last page. It was a great read.
I am giving A Heart of Gold a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy a clean Historical Romance. They will not be disappointed.
I received A Heart of Gold from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving A Heart of Gold a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy a clean Historical Romance. They will not be disappointed.
I received A Heart of Gold from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
August 21, 2020
I loved the detailed adventure of heading into the Klondike to find loved ones who had gone there to find gold. Great characters! Wonderful story!
August 20, 2020
I liked seeing all the details of how to travel to the goldfields; it was really really interesting seeing how they traveled by various means and what the regulations were regarding being able to go. I didn't connect with the characters quite as much as I'd like; I did appreciate Jess's struggle to deal with his past and how it will impact his future.
3.5 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
3.5 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 2, 2021
I was happy to win this book in a giveaway and though it took a while to reach the top of my TBR pile I did enjoy the book. I don't recall having read a Yukon setting romance before so that was a new experience for me. It was interesting to see what people went through to get to potential gold. I kept wondering how any one of their group would have managed the trek without the rest of the group. They all became essential to each other.
I liked the main characters but found myself a little frustrated in the middle of the book that nothing seemed to really progress in their relationship and when something did move a little forward, it wasn't long before something pushed it back again and the underlying cause was pretty much always their own insecurities. It started to feel bogged down a bit with lots of self recrimination. Maybe some of that could have been cut down or varied.
That being said, I did enjoy the story and was happy for the happily ever after ending. I would love to know more about what happened to the rest of Jess's family but they aren't the focus of this story so I can't complain.
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: a bit
*I won this book in a giveaway and voluntarily chose to review it.
I liked the main characters but found myself a little frustrated in the middle of the book that nothing seemed to really progress in their relationship and when something did move a little forward, it wasn't long before something pushed it back again and the underlying cause was pretty much always their own insecurities. It started to feel bogged down a bit with lots of self recrimination. Maybe some of that could have been cut down or varied.
That being said, I did enjoy the story and was happy for the happily ever after ending. I would love to know more about what happened to the rest of Jess's family but they aren't the focus of this story so I can't complain.
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: a bit
*I won this book in a giveaway and voluntarily chose to review it.
September 2, 2020
Rating: 4.5 stars
My thoughts about this book:
• The opening scene, in which Jess returns from a seven month trip and puts Tava in the 'friend zone,' caught my interest right away. My interest in this story was captivated from the beginning and lasted until the satisfying sweet ending.
• The character development of Tava and Jess was thorough and deep. The author made them truly relatable and I was totally invested in their story. Their romance touched my heart.
• The descriptions of locations and emotions were well done, easy to visualize, and to feel. I felt like I was trudging through the Alaskan wilderness with Tava, Jess, Carolyn, Felix and Archie.
• There was a smooth, coherent flow to this book. I enjoyed the writing style of this author.
• This was a clean read.
I was given an advance copy of this book by the author. My review was voluntary and my comments and thoughts were my own. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical romance and adventure.
My thoughts about this book:
• The opening scene, in which Jess returns from a seven month trip and puts Tava in the 'friend zone,' caught my interest right away. My interest in this story was captivated from the beginning and lasted until the satisfying sweet ending.
• The character development of Tava and Jess was thorough and deep. The author made them truly relatable and I was totally invested in their story. Their romance touched my heart.
• The descriptions of locations and emotions were well done, easy to visualize, and to feel. I felt like I was trudging through the Alaskan wilderness with Tava, Jess, Carolyn, Felix and Archie.
• There was a smooth, coherent flow to this book. I enjoyed the writing style of this author.
• This was a clean read.
I was given an advance copy of this book by the author. My review was voluntary and my comments and thoughts were my own. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical romance and adventure.
October 13, 2020
Tava has her heart set on being with Jess and can't wait for him to return to the ranch after some time away, although when he returns he insists that they can only ever be friends and breaks her heart. When Tava learns through an outdated letter that her dad is ill and possibly dying in the Klondike, she desperately wants to rush to his side as soon as possible. Jess insists on accompanying her and together they set out on a grand adventure. This story is told in both Tava's and Jess' point of view, which helps to see both sides of the story. Jess in fact has never stopped loving Tava but is afraid that mistakes from his past will ruin any potential future he may have with her. Along the way to the Klondike they meet some new friends, buy a dog, and open up to each other about their lives and feelings more than ever before. I enjoyed this book and all the characters. There is a prominent theme that through the struggles we face in life, our relationships become stronger as we face them together.
August 24, 2020
3.5
Tava is left by her father to manage their ranch while he goes to Canada in search of gold. But when Tava receives a letter written in a stranger’s hand about how her father has fallen ill and might not survive, she decides to travel there herself. Jess decides to accompany her in order to keep her safe, but the two have an unresolved past that the journey will force them to resolve. The adventure proves to be long and hard, but with faith, love, and resilience the two must make it.
I enjoyed reading it, but somehow I found the book to be a little boring in the relationship department. However, I did enjoy reading about the journey and learning about the many trials that gold seekers had to go through just to get to their destination. I also enjoyed reading about Jess and Tava’s friends that they made along the way. My favorite part was when they finally told each other their intentions.
Tava is left by her father to manage their ranch while he goes to Canada in search of gold. But when Tava receives a letter written in a stranger’s hand about how her father has fallen ill and might not survive, she decides to travel there herself. Jess decides to accompany her in order to keep her safe, but the two have an unresolved past that the journey will force them to resolve. The adventure proves to be long and hard, but with faith, love, and resilience the two must make it.
I enjoyed reading it, but somehow I found the book to be a little boring in the relationship department. However, I did enjoy reading about the journey and learning about the many trials that gold seekers had to go through just to get to their destination. I also enjoyed reading about Jess and Tava’s friends that they made along the way. My favorite part was when they finally told each other their intentions.
October 10, 2020
I am a sucker for a good love story, but I am finding the more I delve into the clean romance genre that I crave more, and that's what I found lacking in A Heart of Gold. I yearned for more...
You can't help falling in love with the characters in this story, the sweetness and good nature abounding, and one can't help but admire their determination to get to the Klondike Trail. Because of the nature of their journey, and the time period the story is set in, there is a touch of suspense, and a few small surprises, but for the most part the story was incredibly tame, leaving me with a feeling of wanting more.
The writing is great, and the scenery picturesque, but despite that I couldn't get past the predictability and lack of more...more drama, more suspense, more tension. Just more... All in all it is a very sweet book that I'm sure many will love, and I wanted so much to love this book, but sadly it fell flat for me.
You can't help falling in love with the characters in this story, the sweetness and good nature abounding, and one can't help but admire their determination to get to the Klondike Trail. Because of the nature of their journey, and the time period the story is set in, there is a touch of suspense, and a few small surprises, but for the most part the story was incredibly tame, leaving me with a feeling of wanting more.
The writing is great, and the scenery picturesque, but despite that I couldn't get past the predictability and lack of more...more drama, more suspense, more tension. Just more... All in all it is a very sweet book that I'm sure many will love, and I wanted so much to love this book, but sadly it fell flat for me.
September 22, 2020
Henrie has written an emotional and fascinating tale about Tava and her journey to the Klondike in Canada. Not in search of gold, but in search of her missing and ill father. Their ranch hand Jess went with Tava to help her and to fulfill a promise to her dad. A big part of the journey for Tava was not just going to find her father, but finding herself and her own heart and feelings for Jess. There is a sweetness to the story that I enjoyed and an element of forgiveness that I appreciated. The setting was definitely different and eye-opening for the physical work and effort it took for people to actually reach the Klondike. My favorite part was the historical aspect of this story, I love learning new things about the past. I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
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