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Brothers are for conflict; and he who finds a wife has found a good thing.

Through the first battle to the end of the Civil war, childhood 'partners' Aaron Van Zandt and Rich Worley fought on opposite sides. The women who loved them lived in prayer and learned to trust God even more to stay sane. While their fellows fought each other, best friends Josie Jo Worley and Cass Andrews battle jealousy, worry, and regret. Experience the war as one who’s left behind. See how they cope. Readers aren’t able to stop turning the pages.

335 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2020

52 people are currently reading
36 people want to read

About the author

Caryl McAdoo

99 books659 followers
Born in California, Caryl McAdoo got to Texas in time to celebrate her first birthday. As a Dallas seventh grader, she remembers a homework essay on ‘What will you be doing in 2000?’ Looking into the future, she saw herself as an inter-galactically famous author, streaking from planet to planet signing books.

She laughs, “But I didn’t start writing again until the late ’80s, then was so blessed to find the DFW Writers’ Workshop in ’93.”

Her first book debuted ’99, then for the next nine years, she averaged a title a year from four traditional presses: two non-fiction, four novels, and three mid-grade chapter books.

In March 2014, her first historical Christian romance VOW UNBROKEN debuted from Howard Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster.

In April that year, she re-released LADY LUCK'S A LOSER (formerly The Apple Orchard Bed and Breakfast) with a new chapter. In September 2014 HEARTS STOLEN, book two in the Texas Romance Family Saga historical romance series, debuted as her first new Indie, and in November A LITTLE LOWER THAN THE ANGELS, her first Biblical fiction series The Generations launched. So four titles in 2014.

Book three of the historical Family Saga HOPE REBORN debuted in January 2015 to start off a whole new year with eleven new titles planned. THE PREACHER'S FAITH comes in February, Caryl's first contemporary in Red River Romance series. THEN THE DELUGE COMES, volume two of The Generations, follows in March.

Since 2014, she's published over sixty new books, averaging over seven new titles a year through 2020. She completed the 'Texas Romance Family Saga' with a total of ten novels, plus several 'Texas Companion Books'!

Plus, she's eight books into a second series, the 'Cross Timbers Romance Family Saga' and debuts a third New Beginnings saga's book one WAGONS WEST in November 2022, her fifth book for the year.

Also known as Grami, she adores twenty-five grandsugars, and she and O’Pa—her high school sweetheart and husband of fifty+ years write together. She’s dedicated to advancing God’s Kingdom through her novels, praying her story gives God glory!

Caryl loves to share her testimony, pray, and praise and worship Him; He frequently gives her new songs.

She believes all good things are from Him and that her books will minister His love, mercy, and grace to her readers.

Irving, Texas remained her lifelong home until 2008 when she and Ron followed God’s leading to Red River County in the far northeast corner of the Lone Star State. There at The Peaceable, the twenty acres of blessings they call home, the McAdoos raise chickens and goats while waiting for God to open the next door!

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5 stars
49 (73%)
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14 (20%)
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3 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
1,575 reviews31 followers
October 9, 2020
This is the first book in the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collections that I have read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. In this story, Aaron and Rich have been friends for a long time, but are now fighting opposite each other. Their good friends Cass and JoJo are left behind praying for the two at war.

I love Caryl McAdoo’s books and this one is no different. Even with the sadness of the war and with friends fighting opposite each other, she manages to weave an intriguing tale that will warm your heart. As always, I love and appreciate the way Ms. McAdoo shows the element of faith throughout the lives of her characters. I had fun reading this one. And friends Aaron and Rich and Cass and Aron quickly felt like family. My heart did go out to Aaron and Rich as they tried to deal with the situations thrown at them. The author clearly shows that we can trust God when our hearts are heavy, when we are in situations that are beyond our control. If you enjoy Civil War with an inspirational twist, you will enjoy this one. Why not give it a try! Another 5 star read from my for this author.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Profile Image for kathi Driskell.
371 reviews10 followers
March 26, 2023
war between family

This book goes deep into war with cousins on both sides. I enjoyed this series with such a big Clan and their way of life. One thing I remember when questioning a family member from Texas was the heat. She said the heat was unbearable but they still worked. And this book includes all of that which brought her to mind. Good series of family.
205 reviews2 followers
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January 13, 2025
Good book

This book gave good insight into hoe the war affected so many. Glad I read it and looking.forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Nyla Kay.
Author 1 book26 followers
October 7, 2020
Texas Troubles is a Christian historical romance by award winning Texas storyteller Caryl McAdoo. McAdoo has written numerous Christian fictional tales with many of them being in Texas. She has become an expert on both subjects and has done extensive and excellent research. This is book five in the Cross Timbers Romance Family Saga Series. It can be read as a stand alone.

This wonderful book is the story of best friends friends Josie Jo Worley and Cass Andrews. Friend and brother, Aaron Van Zandt and Rich Worley, have gone to fight in the Civil War. There is one major problem. They are on opposite sides. The women are concerned about each one.

This is a tale of the emotional side of the war. There are women left at home praying, keeping things going, and worrying. Things are happening that are suspicious. Will the men come home?

I enjoy this author’s style of writing. It is easy to ready and down to earth. Her characters are relatable and realistic. Each one is multi-layered and has flaws as well as good points. By the end of the book, I felt like I had a new group of friends. I laughed and cried with them throughout the book.

I was invested in the story within the first few pages. This book is full of history, twists & turns, romance, and lessons, both spiritual and life. I love how the author always gives readers an inspirational message in each of her books. I learn some history, too. She writes about the Civil War realistically, but she doesn’t go into the bloody details.

I highly recommend this book. There are many people will enjoy it. Christian Civil War, historical romance, and fiction readers will love it. I believe this is the best book I have read by author McAdoo. It was a page turner indeed! I gladly give it five out of five stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,139 reviews134 followers
October 13, 2020
Oh my goodness what a wonderful journey the author takes us on. I was intrigued about the Civil War and how it divided families. The opening of the book is very tranquil and festive as we are introduced to four characters. Oh how fun it would be to dance and laugh with no cares in the world. Cass and JoJo are best friends who have their eye on a certain someone. The jealousy that came up was written so well. Two young ladies wanting the attention of the same young man leads to hurt feelings. Will they be able to swallow their pride and forgive each other?

Aaron and Rich are captivating young men who find themselves on opposite sides of the war. It must have been so hard on Cass and JoJo knowing the men they love were essentially enemies. The conflict of the war is emotional and I loved reading how it affected the men. They want to do the right thing and take a stand, but will their women stand by them?

I especially liked the letters between the two couples. It was easier to share their feelings on paper. As the two women are left behind they pray for the safety of all. I especially liked how JoJo had enough faith to believe that God would bring both men home safely. We do get a glimpse of what it was like on the battlefield. There were many lives lost yet in the midst of it all, God was there to encourage those who stood in battle.

The author is one of the best historical writers around. It is evident in the story how much research was done to make it authentic to the time period. The faith element is good and weaves throughout the story in a graceful way. Once again I have grown closer to God after reading one of the author’s books. The lesson I learned is to never give up hope and trust God in everything.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,177 reviews22 followers
October 11, 2020
Caryl McAdoo is a wonderful author. I have enjoyed all of the books that I have read of hers (which I think is actually all of the books that she’s written). She writes stories that bring you into their pages and don’t let you go. This story is no different.

History is something I love. I love to study history, read about history, reenact history, and generally just anything to do with history. It comes as no surprise then that I love that this is a historical fiction book. The about section below that tells more about the basis of this book in history is really something to read. I have to stay I’m not brushed up on Texas history so that was a neat snippet to learn.

The Civil War though is a time period that I do know a lot about and I loved that this book takes place around there. I liked learning more about Texas and its history.

The characters in this book are wonderful and come to life in a great way that makes it feel like reading this book is actually watching a movie.

This is a series of books with this particular book being the fifth in the series. While you don’t have to read the whole series to understand this book, as with all series I do recommend that you do read the series from beginning to end. It just gives you a bit more understanding and who doesn’t want to read more good books?

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
1,320 reviews
October 14, 2020
Texas Troubles, by Caryl McAdoo, is book five in the Cross Timbers Family Saga and is part of the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collection. This is also a very good stand alone story. Having not read all of the series, I was able to follow along with this story. This is a story of two young men who grew up as best friends and as adults enlist on different sides of the Civil War. The story follow through their part in service as well as the girls they left behind and promise to come home to.

This story starts out with the four main characters while they are home in Texas. Cass and Jo Jo are best of friends while JoJo's brother, Rich, and Aaron are like brothers. As the story builds we see the friendships develop into romantic relationships. Aaron takes a job as a cotton buyer and as he leaves for his job, he and Jo Jo vocalize their feelings toward each other. Mean while, Rich was married to Cass's sister until her death. As he struggles to move forward, they realize their friendship has deepened.

This is a very well written story with strong characters. The writing is very clear and descriptive, it is easy to follow along and envision what is happening. This story caught my attention from the very beginning and was hard to put down. It was enjoyable to see the differences between Rich and Aaron and how they were able to remain friends despite them. The story shows the strength the soldiers and their families needed to get through the difficult times. This is a great story that shows the importance of prayer and relying on God.

I received an ebook copy of this story from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.
1,931 reviews
October 7, 2020
For quite a while I have enjoyed reading books from both the Cross-Timbers Family as well as the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collections. Plus, I always enjoy reading books by Caryl McAdoo. This book was no exception. Focusing on the lives of Cass and JoJo, this story started off with me disliking Cass’ obsession with Aaron. Then when he tells her, he is not interested in her, her sulking turned me off more.

JoJo winds up telling Aaron as he prepares to leave for London about her feelings for him. The book then turns to twists about Cass, Rich (JoJo’s brother), JoJo and Aaron as well as other members of their family and their friends during the time of the Civil War. I love how this book explores both friends fighting on opposing sides in the war. It also explores the lengths some families will go to be with their loved ones.

I have to say I really enjoyed the storyline about JoJo, her faith, and her determination to see her desired outcome come true. Caryl McAdoo creates characters and stories that pull the reader into her worlds and makes the reader want to learn more about them. So if you like books about families, the Civil War, and overcoming obstacles while finding true love, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
2,084 reviews
October 7, 2020
Texas Troubles is a story that revolves around two women and two men, before and during the Civil War. Rich and Josie Worley are brother and sister and are each in love with the other's best friend. Rich loves Cassie, but Cassie and Josie both love Aaron. Rich a widower, was married to Cassie's older sister, but he has his heart and priorities in the right place. Aaron, on the other hand, is a bit of a rogue when we meet him and not really the best man for either girl. But can one of them love him enough despite his many sins?

Not only do we have the drama of romance and family, but the country is about to explode into a war. The national tensions (like today) reached down into all parts of their lives and nothing is left unscathed. After the war where will we find these four? This is their story and reading like an epic drama we watch as the events unfold. The insight into each of their characters shows especially in their letter writing where they open up their hearts.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Connie Hill.
1,918 reviews47 followers
October 10, 2020
This is book 5 in the Cross Timbers Romance Family Saga. I have not read all the others in the series, but I had no problem following along. This book opens up in 1860 with a Barn dance. I like how the author prefaces the war in the beginning of the story. We see two couples who meet, hit it off and boom the war happens. The two male friends (Aaron and Rich) go in opposite directions - one goes into the Union army and one goes to the Confederate army. The book follows their journey of their separate ways - it follows the women (Jo Jo and Cass) that love them.

One of the best things about this author is how historically accurate her books are. She always does careful research to insure that her readers get a clear picture. I love reading anything that this author puts out - I know that I will be reading a God inspired, historical, entertaining book.

This book contains well written characters. The way she describes them, you feel like you know them deeply. The storyline is intriguing. I found myself wondering about friends that did go into opposite sides and what happened to their friendships.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program -- all thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Betti.
1,414 reviews36 followers
October 2, 2020
It is 1860 and the nation stands on the brink of war - a war over slavery. Life goes on as usual in Texas, except that not everyone agrees on this subject. Lifelong friendships are being questioned when actions put them on opposite sides of this conundrum. Aaron, Rich, JoJo and Cass have been friends as long as they remember. Now it is as if the world and love is against them - how will this work out in the end?

The author has done a fabulous job of highlighting some portions of the Civil War and how it affected the small community of Delaware Creek. There is realism without gore, detail without causing horror yet the reader totally understands the reality of war, prisoners and even the anguish of loved ones listed MIA. Will those deep in the trenches as well as the ones left behind leave the future in the Lord’s hands?

This ARC was received through Cross Timbers Romance and CelebrateLit. This book is part of the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collection and can easily stand alone. The comments and impressions given are my own and were in no way solicited.
6,203 reviews
September 25, 2020
Texas Troubles is the fifth installment from Caryl McAdoo’s Cross Timbers Family Saga and part of the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collection. Even though it is part of a saga, I felt that this can be read as a stand alone. Though I do plan on going back and reading the books I have missed prior to this one. I thought this book was fabulous. It was full of faith that included some important life lessons and reminders. I thoroughly enjoyed the story involving JoJo, Cass, Aaron and Rich. It was such a beautiful tale. I loved every single page.

I am giving Texas Troubles a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy Inspirational Historical Romance. In my opinion, this is one that should not be missed.

I received Texas Troubles from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,615 reviews4 followers
October 19, 2020
"Texas Trouble" by Caryl McAdoo is a book that was hard to put down. It was my favorite of the "Cross Timbers Family" Saga. Yes, it was a long read but it was worth the time it took to read. I had to keep reading it because I have to see how it would end and I have to say the ending brought a smile to me.

This is a clean love story, a fictional account of the Civil War and how friendship survive jealously, regret and worry.

I say Caryl McAdoo has done it again with a five star novel.

I supposed if a reader hasn't read the other books in this sage, this would still be a great read but I recommend reading all her series in order to get the full story and to know her characters in details. I guarantee you won't be sorry.

I received a contemporary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are mine own.
Profile Image for Susan.
650 reviews30 followers
September 1, 2020

This was a great book. It was a romance, but even more, to me, it was a great story of 2 friendships. Aaron and Rich had been best friends forever, getting into all kinds of mischief growing up, but ending up on opposite sides of the war. JoJo and Cass are the women who love them, who have also been best friends for a long time.
I love the way that Mrs. McAdoo was able to show, without being too graphic, some of the horrors of war. She did this quite a bit through letters between the women and their soldiers. I also liked the way she was able to show both sides of the war. I thought this was a great story and would recommend it.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author and was not obligated to write a positive review.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,851 reviews52 followers
October 11, 2020
Caryl McAdoo is one of my favorite Authors. Texas Troubles is book 2 in
Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collection Three.

The book is based during the Cival War period. 2 Best Friends, Aaron and
Rich, are fighting in the War, but are on opposite sides. Their wives, JoJo
and Cass are also best friends and are taking care things at home. JoJo
and Cass are trying to not let the fact that their husbands are fighting on
opposite sides, come between their friendship.

I really enjoyed this Historical accurateness of this book. I also enjoyed
how the characters really connected throughout the book, even through
the opposite sides. Caryl McAdoo makes this book come alive for the
time period. There were a few twists and turns that really makes it a
page turner book! Exciting Book!
Profile Image for Ashley Dawn.
Author 41 books82 followers
October 12, 2020
This is a wonderful book. I love this author's writing and this was no exception. The two best friends who are fighting on opposite sides of the war. There is stress and strain on their families back at home worrying.

I love that God is woven throughout the entire story. There are examples of him everywhere and the author does a great job of showing it without putting in 'in your face'. I loved the characters and how realistic they were. It could have actually happened back then and these be real people.

Overall it was a 5/5 for me.

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Profile Image for Sandra Bagwell.
550 reviews2 followers
September 20, 2020
Loved it

One of the best Caryl McAdoo has written. The story is believable and gives a timeline of civil war battles. It portrays a family torn by the brother against brother in each side of the war. Texas legislature is Kentucky had people on each side. The issue of the cotton industry and the conflict within families on the subject of slavery was very much a part of each man's decisions. I have enjoyed the series of well known characters from last books by this author. I look forward to reading more Thanksgiving books from other authors.
1,027 reviews12 followers
September 1, 2020
The author has penned a beautiful story which took place before, during and after the Civil War. It is the story of two friends who loved two brothers and has great character development. This story is full of interesting and accurate historical facts of this particular time period and is also a story of great faith and turmoil and is very warm and uplifting. I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it. I know you will enjoy it.
840 reviews10 followers
April 23, 2023
Texas Troubles is set in Texas during the days before and during the Civil War. Romance, family and friendships are all important aspects of this story. Politics and war put pressures on the best of friends and families, not to mention budding romances. This book was enjoyable and informative.

This book was provided through Celebrate Lit and the author for me to read. The opinions expressed are my own.
928 reviews11 followers
September 1, 2020
This was a good story. The thought that goes into this story and the pieces of history added in help add to this story. The characters are interesting and this story had definite twists and turns. If you like reading about the civil war era or just a good historical romance then this is a great book.
Profile Image for Ann.
2,662 reviews3 followers
September 1, 2020
This is a wonderful book that is well written. It has just the right amount of drama and romance to keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. If you like historical romances you will love this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
351 reviews
February 16, 2022
Pageturner

This story will keep you turning pages until the end. The 2 childhood friends, Aaron and Rich end up on opposite sides during the Civil War. Their prospective brides go to Washington D.C. near where both men are and try to get One of them released from prison. Quite a synopsis of the Civil War around Virginia.
369 reviews3 followers
August 13, 2020
I really couldn't put this book down!!! The scenes were so realistic and the emotions so pure. I almost forgot I was reading fiction. There was also a beautiful story of forgiveness and friendship woven in.
Profile Image for Kristin Carmack.
243 reviews3 followers
September 1, 2020
I loved the story. The letters show just how hard communication was during those awful war years. Caryl you really brought the hardships and believing in God, His promises and a person's true faith in God to the front. Great job!!!
40 reviews1 follower
September 6, 2020
Wonderful testimony of Gods blessings on these families

I love the story of the 2 couples against the backdrop of the civil war. There's just enough history to keep it interesting and relatable. Keep on writing Caryl McAdoo!
1,856 reviews26 followers
November 18, 2020
Long-awaited and stubborn love

Cass did not end up with the man she thought she would have, but God had something better in mind. Jo had some incredible birthday surprises!
Profile Image for Karen Hadley.
542 reviews19 followers
August 1, 2021
Truly enjoyable

Caryl is such a awesome writer. Page turner on Cass and JoJo’s loves as the men they love fight on opposite sides of the civil war. A great read!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews