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The Russells #2
The Heart of Courage
It's 1753, and troubling news comes to Russell's Ridge . . .
Susanna Russell longs to escape her valley home. When war breaks out, she gets her wish to study in fabulous Williamsburg. But she realizes she's lost something important along the way. Something--and someone.
James Paxton is studying for the ministry. But when violence threatens the valley, his path becomes clouded. What is God's will for his life? The answer is alarming--and impossible.
Red Hawk spies white surveyors near his home, a harbinger of trouble to come. Shawnee chiefs go to Philadelphia to treat for peace, but the unthinkable happens, and Red Hawk loses all he holds dear. Then he has a strange dream. What can it mean?
War, romance, and gospel truth unite in this remarkable sequel to The Shenandoah Road.
Susanna Russell longs to escape her valley home. When war breaks out, she gets her wish to study in fabulous Williamsburg. But she realizes she's lost something important along the way. Something--and someone.
James Paxton is studying for the ministry. But when violence threatens the valley, his path becomes clouded. What is God's will for his life? The answer is alarming--and impossible.
Red Hawk spies white surveyors near his home, a harbinger of trouble to come. Shawnee chiefs go to Philadelphia to treat for peace, but the unthinkable happens, and Red Hawk loses all he holds dear. Then he has a strange dream. What can it mean?
War, romance, and gospel truth unite in this remarkable sequel to The Shenandoah Road.
395 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2020
156 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Lynne Basham Tagawa
10 books222 followersLynne Tagawa got her start in writing when a small school needed a Texas history curriculum. Later she branched out into historical fiction. She loves to write about both the spiritual and cultural heritage of our country, and this inspired the 18th century series, the Russells. She's a wife, mother, and grandmother in sunny south Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 13, 2024
This book had all the rich historical detail and deep Christian elements I’ve come to expect from Lynne Tagawa. I stand in awe of her ability to weave such a detailed picture of life on the frontier, and I relished all the historical figures who came to life or earned mentions in this book—especially little-known heroes of the faith like Samuel Davies, Shubal Stearns, and David Brainerd. (And Patrick Henry! Yes!) Once again, the quotes at the beginning of each chapter added so much to the historical context. It was fascinating to see early sermons and confessions of faith woven into the story in such an integral way.
Tagawa did a masterful job of displaying the sometimes strained, sometimes amicable relationship of different denominations on the frontier. Jamie’s arc was a natural representation of that, and Susanna’s struggles hit home to me—we don’t have to actually be doing wrong to let our hearts wander from our God. I also loved Red Hawk’s story—to me, it had Romans 1 written all over it. The story didn’t gloss over the atrocities of some Native Americans (violence warning for sensitive readers), but it portrayed an honest view of real human beings on both sides making right and wrong choices. I appreciated that while native customs were an integral part of Red Hawk’s arc, the spiritual darkness was not overemphasized or glorified. That storyline felt natural and realistic to the culture.
There were a few times when I felt the plot wandered or important points were summarized instead of lived out on the page, but it’s simply amazing to me that someone has put so much effort into a story that accurately displays early American struggles and the real-life heroes who overcame them. The Heart of Courage is a rich, atmospheric read and a worthy sequel to The Shenandoah Road. I’m looking forward to the next one!
This book is part of a four-book Christian historical fiction giveaway open June 14–June 25, 2024. Enter the giveaway here.
Tagawa did a masterful job of displaying the sometimes strained, sometimes amicable relationship of different denominations on the frontier. Jamie’s arc was a natural representation of that, and Susanna’s struggles hit home to me—we don’t have to actually be doing wrong to let our hearts wander from our God. I also loved Red Hawk’s story—to me, it had Romans 1 written all over it. The story didn’t gloss over the atrocities of some Native Americans (violence warning for sensitive readers), but it portrayed an honest view of real human beings on both sides making right and wrong choices. I appreciated that while native customs were an integral part of Red Hawk’s arc, the spiritual darkness was not overemphasized or glorified. That storyline felt natural and realistic to the culture.
There were a few times when I felt the plot wandered or important points were summarized instead of lived out on the page, but it’s simply amazing to me that someone has put so much effort into a story that accurately displays early American struggles and the real-life heroes who overcame them. The Heart of Courage is a rich, atmospheric read and a worthy sequel to The Shenandoah Road. I’m looking forward to the next one!
This book is part of a four-book Christian historical fiction giveaway open June 14–June 25, 2024. Enter the giveaway here.
March 30, 2022
So I kind of had mixed feelings about this book most of the way through but the last several chapters confirmed for me that I did like it.
Parts of the book were really slow. If you love historical fiction that is heavy on historical facts and information, this is a great book to read. But that was also what slowed me down until near the end when the story itself picked up.
But I did really appreciate this book over all. I loved Susanna's story. It felt realistic because so often growing up in a Christian home it is easy to have all the correct answers, but not have any personal relationship with Christ. Susanna's story showed that while also showing her growth and how her faith became her own and not just something her parents believed in.
I loved Jamie and the way he wrestled with theological issues, and by the way, I love that this author doesn't shy away from writing and wrestling with theological issues in her book. And to those who are fascinated with or interested in the early Baptists, this a great book to read on that.
I loved Red Hawks character and his search for truth as well as getting to see a little more of the American Indian traditions and beliefs, but also how the gospel was brought to his tribe and how the Gospel was explained in a way they could understand.
The beginning was harder also with the way it had to jump from various characters, but I love how it was all brought together at the end.
So, overall, a great read. Definitely recommend, especially if you love historically rich fiction.
Parts of the book were really slow. If you love historical fiction that is heavy on historical facts and information, this is a great book to read. But that was also what slowed me down until near the end when the story itself picked up.
But I did really appreciate this book over all. I loved Susanna's story. It felt realistic because so often growing up in a Christian home it is easy to have all the correct answers, but not have any personal relationship with Christ. Susanna's story showed that while also showing her growth and how her faith became her own and not just something her parents believed in.
I loved Jamie and the way he wrestled with theological issues, and by the way, I love that this author doesn't shy away from writing and wrestling with theological issues in her book. And to those who are fascinated with or interested in the early Baptists, this a great book to read on that.
I loved Red Hawks character and his search for truth as well as getting to see a little more of the American Indian traditions and beliefs, but also how the gospel was brought to his tribe and how the Gospel was explained in a way they could understand.
The beginning was harder also with the way it had to jump from various characters, but I love how it was all brought together at the end.
So, overall, a great read. Definitely recommend, especially if you love historically rich fiction.
October 22, 2024
With each book, I’m finding how much I enjoy this author!
I love history but knew very little about the French and Indian War. To me it always seemed like Canadian history or maybe New England, and with the War for Independence following, it seemed like less of a big deal…so I was surprised to read this story about that war set in my home state (and a county I’m very familiar with). Wow. I definitely want to learn more about this time period—especially about the gospel going out to the Indians!
Jam packed with history, culture, and wonderful characters—Heart of Courage was hard to put down. I loved Susanna, Jamie, and Red Hawk, too.
It takes place 10 years after the first book. It could be read technically as a stand alone, but I’d recommend reading them in order. Unlike the first book, this one has three POVs. Initially I had a hard time keeping track of so many characters (as well as various settings!), but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the story.
The spiritual content was fantastic! There is a clear plan of salvation and also lots of deep moments of real life Christian growth.
My one “complaint” was that the book seemed to end too soon. No spoilers, but I wanted more details of the last events of the story which was super intense (I was so surprised to be at 80% and have certain things happening!) Having said that, it still was a good ending. I look forward to the third book in this series.
*Note: Due to the time period, there are some more intense/scary moments. The author handled these events delicately, but war is a hard thing no matter what.
I love history but knew very little about the French and Indian War. To me it always seemed like Canadian history or maybe New England, and with the War for Independence following, it seemed like less of a big deal…so I was surprised to read this story about that war set in my home state (and a county I’m very familiar with). Wow. I definitely want to learn more about this time period—especially about the gospel going out to the Indians!
Jam packed with history, culture, and wonderful characters—Heart of Courage was hard to put down. I loved Susanna, Jamie, and Red Hawk, too.
It takes place 10 years after the first book. It could be read technically as a stand alone, but I’d recommend reading them in order. Unlike the first book, this one has three POVs. Initially I had a hard time keeping track of so many characters (as well as various settings!), but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the story.
The spiritual content was fantastic! There is a clear plan of salvation and also lots of deep moments of real life Christian growth.
My one “complaint” was that the book seemed to end too soon. No spoilers, but I wanted more details of the last events of the story which was super intense (I was so surprised to be at 80% and have certain things happening!) Having said that, it still was a good ending. I look forward to the third book in this series.
*Note: Due to the time period, there are some more intense/scary moments. The author handled these events delicately, but war is a hard thing no matter what.
August 11, 2021
I have sampled a lot of historical fiction this year and I am convinced that Lynne Basham Tagawa has risen to the top of my list of favorite authors. I adored both of the Russell's books. The historical value interwoven with fresh, unique storylines and characters were a breath among fresh air considering Christian fiction has stagnated at the hands of many other authors. I was heartily impressed with Lynne Basham Tagawa and will assuredly read more of her works!
August 9, 2020
Oh, wow! I LOVED this book!!! You can't go wrong by having Native Americans in a book! I especially love that Lynne showed the Native Americans in a "real" way. I love history, and this book has enough "real" history in it that it satisfies that, and it also has the human touch, and maybe not the politically correct touch. However, it has the TRUE touch, and in more ways than one!! It's always amazed me how the Europeans came over and were surprised the "Indians" fought them. Like they owned the world. This part of our history is NOT a great time, in my opinion. This is a great book trying to tell both sides honestly, and I think she did a wonderful job. I especially like that the struggles Susanna and James go through are troubles that all of us can go through, and they overcame, just as we can. I also loved Red Hawk, Straight Arrow, and Buffalo Robe.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
March 31, 2021
A book rich in eternal values, from Karen Lee
I have been so impressed by the two books I have read by Ms Tagawa. She has pulled together so many important facets of a great book. Her characters are well developed and real, warts and all. She brings the historical setting to life. I appreciate the deep theological discussions. If you want light reading this is not the book for you. But it's worth reading.
I have been so impressed by the two books I have read by Ms Tagawa. She has pulled together so many important facets of a great book. Her characters are well developed and real, warts and all. She brings the historical setting to life. I appreciate the deep theological discussions. If you want light reading this is not the book for you. But it's worth reading.
July 30, 2021
I found this book to be mesmerizing. Reading about life on the frontier in the late 1700s is fascinating, and sometimes hard to read about. The clash of native American and colonial cultures brought heartache on both sides. The characters are well done, and I wanted to know what happened to each of them. If you like historical fiction, this is a gem.
August 15, 2024
I finished this book about five months ago, but I just couldn’t settle on how to rate the book and what I wanted to communicate concerning the book. I’ve found that ruminating on a book for a bit allows me to give a fairer review of a book, especially one I am initially conflicted about.
First of all, Lynne is a good writer, I own four of her books in “The Russells” series, although to date, I’ve read only books one and two. I really appreciated book one. It blended three genres very effectively, Christian fiction, Historical fiction, and Romantic fiction. The Shenandoah Road allowed me to slip into a different world, a world without any modern conveniences. More than reading a straight-up history book, historical fiction done well helps illuminate the stark differences in the time period. Lynne in The Heart of Courage continues to giftedly pull and place the reader into the historical setting of a different time and place, in book two it is the French and Indian War period. There were many passages that were intense, where the suspense was intense. The juxtaposition of those penetrating situations over and against the active faith and trust brought to play by key characters was chilling.
There were times, I found the action and key characters difficult to track. The problem was the plot jumped around, then added to that, you had a significantly large list of characters to keep organized and chart things like their paths, issues, and such. This slowed down the story and forced me at times to flip through pages looking for answers to the plot/setting switches.
The Quotes in this book were great, I’ll list two:
• Chapter 7, page 49, Rev. John Craig, “What made the times distressing and unhappy to all the frontier was the French and Indian war, which lay heavy on us…” WHAT an understatement!
• Chapter 38, page 318, “My father once said that duty is the foundation of all good choices…Your conscience, enlightened by the Word of God, reveals your duty, the path you are meant to take. And a clear conscience is the heart of godly courage.”
I’m enjoying this well-researched author, with a great grasp of church history, and sense of place. I do not think I have ever read a fiction book that caused me to grab for a copy of my Cairns, Hiscox, or Vedder church history book. Great Read. As a teaser, I’m reading Lynne’s recent book, “The Root of the Matter” and I think it is The Best book she has written to date.
First of all, Lynne is a good writer, I own four of her books in “The Russells” series, although to date, I’ve read only books one and two. I really appreciated book one. It blended three genres very effectively, Christian fiction, Historical fiction, and Romantic fiction. The Shenandoah Road allowed me to slip into a different world, a world without any modern conveniences. More than reading a straight-up history book, historical fiction done well helps illuminate the stark differences in the time period. Lynne in The Heart of Courage continues to giftedly pull and place the reader into the historical setting of a different time and place, in book two it is the French and Indian War period. There were many passages that were intense, where the suspense was intense. The juxtaposition of those penetrating situations over and against the active faith and trust brought to play by key characters was chilling.
There were times, I found the action and key characters difficult to track. The problem was the plot jumped around, then added to that, you had a significantly large list of characters to keep organized and chart things like their paths, issues, and such. This slowed down the story and forced me at times to flip through pages looking for answers to the plot/setting switches.
The Quotes in this book were great, I’ll list two:
• Chapter 7, page 49, Rev. John Craig, “What made the times distressing and unhappy to all the frontier was the French and Indian war, which lay heavy on us…” WHAT an understatement!
• Chapter 38, page 318, “My father once said that duty is the foundation of all good choices…Your conscience, enlightened by the Word of God, reveals your duty, the path you are meant to take. And a clear conscience is the heart of godly courage.”
I’m enjoying this well-researched author, with a great grasp of church history, and sense of place. I do not think I have ever read a fiction book that caused me to grab for a copy of my Cairns, Hiscox, or Vedder church history book. Great Read. As a teaser, I’m reading Lynne’s recent book, “The Root of the Matter” and I think it is The Best book she has written to date.
December 9, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book, the second in the Russell Family series. I did at times get confused with the number of characters introduced in the beginning of the book and the timeline of events, (I feel like I wanted to take notes or name a timeline) but that is probably because I listened to it on audible and was not actually reading the names or the dates. I found myself looking up historical facts about the actual people who became characters in the book, specifically Preacher John Craig. I have since started reading about his life because of the introduction to him in this book. I love the theological discussions that take place between the characters and watching the main characters grow in their faith and in their relationship. I was not ready for the book to end; I would have loved for the epilogue to have turned into 4 more chapters! I look forward to the 3rd book in this series and am hopeful the author is working on more books.
August 2, 2021
continuing story from book 1 of the Russell family now some years later when Suzanna is 14/15 and this is her story along with Jamie and introducing Red Hawk (white captive now Shawnee) and his village.
Lynne is quite descriptive in her writing in particular where the sense of smell is involved. Where manure (horse or equivalent mentioned you smell it for real).
I was interested in the different Christian denominations who were persecuted in Europe/UK and crossed the Atlantic to have new beginnings. How people turned on those who may/or may not have licenses to preach.(facts *tithe that are eye opening especially as I'm not from/of USA).
I believe (that God can direct books for me to read) that in reading this book it has helped in the season I'm in spiritually which was stuck. Thank You and praise God.
Lynne is quite descriptive in her writing in particular where the sense of smell is involved. Where manure (horse or equivalent mentioned you smell it for real).
I was interested in the different Christian denominations who were persecuted in Europe/UK and crossed the Atlantic to have new beginnings. How people turned on those who may/or may not have licenses to preach.(facts *tithe that are eye opening especially as I'm not from/of USA).
I believe (that God can direct books for me to read) that in reading this book it has helped in the season I'm in spiritually which was stuck. Thank You and praise God.
August 8, 2022
This book is wonderful
The only things that would have improved it would have been some sort of map features of the time period included, also a listing of the cast of characters would have been nice. So many characters were Scottish it grew a bit confusing keeping track of who was who. I honestly found out now in reading this book why the first amendment is first! There is no separation of church and state but rather a requirement that government can not tell us which denomination to adhere to....God is greatly to be praised. Thank you Lord for allowing me to be born here!
The only things that would have improved it would have been some sort of map features of the time period included, also a listing of the cast of characters would have been nice. So many characters were Scottish it grew a bit confusing keeping track of who was who. I honestly found out now in reading this book why the first amendment is first! There is no separation of church and state but rather a requirement that government can not tell us which denomination to adhere to....God is greatly to be praised. Thank you Lord for allowing me to be born here!
June 9, 2022
Captivating Spiritual and Relational Slice of American Struggles
I enjoyed being transported to a personal level of the struggles that pervaded colonial Christians during the French and Indian War. If you enjoy Church History, American History or a well told novel, you should read this book. It was enlightening and compelling as the characters had to grapple with life with the Native Americans in a time when the boundary lines were not clearly delineated. I look forward to book 3!
I enjoyed being transported to a personal level of the struggles that pervaded colonial Christians during the French and Indian War. If you enjoy Church History, American History or a well told novel, you should read this book. It was enlightening and compelling as the characters had to grapple with life with the Native Americans in a time when the boundary lines were not clearly delineated. I look forward to book 3!
July 29, 2021
Needed more, felt unfinished.......
I liked the storyline it was good, who would have thought preaching with out a license would wind you in custody...... Thank goodness for the constitution many years later. I was hoping for more interaction with Susanna and her mother, and James. I felt the ending was rushed and could have ended better she needed to see her family again....is there a book three?
I liked the storyline it was good, who would have thought preaching with out a license would wind you in custody...... Thank goodness for the constitution many years later. I was hoping for more interaction with Susanna and her mother, and James. I felt the ending was rushed and could have ended better she needed to see her family again....is there a book three?
November 9, 2022
this was a most interesting read. Respectfully showing different perspectives and opinions. The end of the book surprised me. I confess, before I started it I was hoping it would be about the previous books protagonist sister Mary. I thought I would be disappointed, I was not.
like I said, the ending very much surprised me, and I loved it. Starting the third book of this series with great anticipation.
like I said, the ending very much surprised me, and I loved it. Starting the third book of this series with great anticipation.
January 20, 2023
Excellent Story
I enjoyed this story set in a time not often written about. This plot brings to light the conflicts of European arrivals to the North American continent and their effects on the people already here. I enjoyed the research that went into portraying th customs and attitudes of different groups. Great characters. The story came to a satisfying conclusion, but I would have liked it to continue.
I enjoyed this story set in a time not often written about. This plot brings to light the conflicts of European arrivals to the North American continent and their effects on the people already here. I enjoyed the research that went into portraying th customs and attitudes of different groups. Great characters. The story came to a satisfying conclusion, but I would have liked it to continue.
November 18, 2023
What A Great Story # 2 is
Oh, the places you'll go. Excellent again. And exciting journey through history really a wonderful author with the gift of story crafting ...you are there in the story, Richmond, Williamsburg, Pittsburgh, wild nature, danger, excitement and ultimate resolution. Spiritually deep scripture respectfully shared. Hearts knit and natives honored. Looking for #3...A+++
Oh, the places you'll go. Excellent again. And exciting journey through history really a wonderful author with the gift of story crafting ...you are there in the story, Richmond, Williamsburg, Pittsburgh, wild nature, danger, excitement and ultimate resolution. Spiritually deep scripture respectfully shared. Hearts knit and natives honored. Looking for #3...A+++
August 10, 2024
This is a very interesting story with a lot of character and one you can not read fast. Susanna escapes to Williamsburg and while there she learns about the true meaning of a relationship with Christ. There is danger of war back where she's from and there are skirmisches with the native Americans that lead to trouble. This also shows their sturggles on how to deal with this and one learns to believe in God. Lots of action.
July 16, 2025
This book started out slow but once all the plots intersected, it got so good. Set during the French and Indian War and thick with beautiful theology. I hope to have my kids read this when they are teens - there's a few scenes (like childbirth, though not in great detail) that are for more mature audience but I look forward to sharing it with them as part of their schooling some day! I had no idea it was the second book in a series so now I have to go back and read the first haha
August 28, 2020
Loved This Book
I had read the first book of this series and thoroughly enjoyed it. My biggest complaint with Christian fiction is that it's so much romance. And a lot of it is very predictable. This book was more like historical fiction, which I love. Add in the Christian aspect and it makes it even more real to me. Thank you Lynne. Another wonderful experience.
I had read the first book of this series and thoroughly enjoyed it. My biggest complaint with Christian fiction is that it's so much romance. And a lot of it is very predictable. This book was more like historical fiction, which I love. Add in the Christian aspect and it makes it even more real to me. Thank you Lynne. Another wonderful experience.
April 22, 2021
A delight in the language of the word of God brought before people of war and unrest.
A book of Faith far beyond any I have read thus far. It spans the early history of the birth of a new nation that finds the hearts of those who follow the written word of the Creator.
A book of Faith far beyond any I have read thus far. It spans the early history of the birth of a new nation that finds the hearts of those who follow the written word of the Creator.
July 12, 2025
So well written!
The continuing story of the settlement of the Shenandoah and how the area was affected by the French and Indian War as well as the influence of missionaries for Christ is priceless.
The continuing story of the settlement of the Shenandoah and how the area was affected by the French and Indian War as well as the influence of missionaries for Christ is priceless.
May 7, 2021
Great Christian historical fiction
Very much enjoyed the book and The Shenandoah Valley (first in the series). Living in the area currently, made the history feel very real.
Very much enjoyed the book and The Shenandoah Valley (first in the series). Living in the area currently, made the history feel very real.
May 3, 2022
**Audiobook
I liked the story and the author’s writing style. It was interesting how she showed each main characters path to faith and their struggles. Clean romance 😊
I liked the story and the author’s writing style. It was interesting how she showed each main characters path to faith and their struggles. Clean romance 😊
August 5, 2023
The Heart of Courage
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this read, but glad I stuck with it. Great story and great book. Know that God is with you in any situation.
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this read, but glad I stuck with it. Great story and great book. Know that God is with you in any situation.
May 27, 2024
Beautiful historical fiction written from a Christian perspective. Love the whole series!
October 16, 2024
Could not stay interested. Too graphic for me. I almost never quit reading a book prior to finishing but this is one of them.
March 4, 2025
I was captivated by Lynne’s beautiful writing. This is a beautiful story with deep spiritual content that I really appreciate it.
June 7, 2023
1753-1760s
Shenandoah Valley
Main Characters
Susanna Russell - Daughter of John Russell from book one
James (Jamie) Paxton - studying for the ministry, hoping to preach to Indians
Red Hawk - Shawnee brave with a hunger for truth
Ripe with Church history as well as American history Ms Tagawa blends Indian/settler conflicts with a history of our faith and a gentle romance flawlessly.
My theology loving heart was overflowing throughout the book. To me, this wasn’t the least bit dry. It kept my interest all the way through! Not only that but, had I a history teacher during my school years that kept my interest in historical events as much as Ms. Tagawa did, I might have enjoyed American history much more.
I picked up the audio version of this book so I didn’t have to put it down these last two days of my utter immersion.
This was read by the soft-spoken Stuart Gauffi who absolutely brought the story to life. I’m going to have to look into other books he’s narrated.
Anyway, I can’t say anything more than I just loved this book.
Shenandoah Valley
Main Characters
Susanna Russell - Daughter of John Russell from book one
James (Jamie) Paxton - studying for the ministry, hoping to preach to Indians
Red Hawk - Shawnee brave with a hunger for truth
Ripe with Church history as well as American history Ms Tagawa blends Indian/settler conflicts with a history of our faith and a gentle romance flawlessly.
My theology loving heart was overflowing throughout the book. To me, this wasn’t the least bit dry. It kept my interest all the way through! Not only that but, had I a history teacher during my school years that kept my interest in historical events as much as Ms. Tagawa did, I might have enjoyed American history much more.
I picked up the audio version of this book so I didn’t have to put it down these last two days of my utter immersion.
This was read by the soft-spoken Stuart Gauffi who absolutely brought the story to life. I’m going to have to look into other books he’s narrated.
Anyway, I can’t say anything more than I just loved this book.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews