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The Culper Ring #2.5
A Hero's Promise
This free e-novella is an exclusive bonus in the Culper Ring Series by Roseanna M. White, set in the intervening years between Whispers from the Shadows and Circle of Spies.
Baltimore, Maryland, January 1835. Twenty-year-old Julienne Lane eagerly awaits the return of her fiancé, naval lieutenant Jack Arnaud, but she has not been idle. She and best friend Freeda Payne have been working hard to support the abolitionist movement. Their efforts have been clouded in secrecy, but when Freeda shows up in Julie’s cellar with a runaway slave, the need for secrets becomes imperative. When Jack returns home, will she threaten his career in the Navy by including him in their plans, or will she hide the news from him and put his trust to the test?
Her fiancé appears to be hiding a secret of his own, however. Despite a harrowing tour of duty in the North Atlantic, Jack’s hope for rest and recuperation are put on hold. His wedding to Julienne is in two days, but a more pressing matter comes to his attention from his Culper Ring associates. Should he ask his fiancée to postpone the wedding for the third time in two years? Why does she blush so brightly when he asks her about the cellar? How will he and the Culper Ring foil the malicious plans they have uncovered? The clock is ticking, and danger looms. Can justice prevail? Will their love survive?
Baltimore, Maryland, January 1835. Twenty-year-old Julienne Lane eagerly awaits the return of her fiancé, naval lieutenant Jack Arnaud, but she has not been idle. She and best friend Freeda Payne have been working hard to support the abolitionist movement. Their efforts have been clouded in secrecy, but when Freeda shows up in Julie’s cellar with a runaway slave, the need for secrets becomes imperative. When Jack returns home, will she threaten his career in the Navy by including him in their plans, or will she hide the news from him and put his trust to the test?
Her fiancé appears to be hiding a secret of his own, however. Despite a harrowing tour of duty in the North Atlantic, Jack’s hope for rest and recuperation are put on hold. His wedding to Julienne is in two days, but a more pressing matter comes to his attention from his Culper Ring associates. Should he ask his fiancée to postpone the wedding for the third time in two years? Why does she blush so brightly when he asks her about the cellar? How will he and the Culper Ring foil the malicious plans they have uncovered? The clock is ticking, and danger looms. Can justice prevail? Will their love survive?
39 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
99 people are currently reading
943 people want to read
About the author
Roseanna M. White
66 books3,959 followersRoseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. She and her family make their home in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
see also Roseanna White
see also Roseanna White
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 3, 2019
I’ve read all but this short story in Roseanna M. White's Culper books. I wasn’t aware of this one until it came up on a list. Had to snatch it.
Her research on an assassination attempt of Andrew Jackson lead Ms. White to write this interesting story, mixing in an intriguing romance between Julienne (Lenna) Lane and Lieutenant Jack Arnaud.
I'll have to look for more of this author's work as I’ve enjoyed most of what I’ve read so far.
Her research on an assassination attempt of Andrew Jackson lead Ms. White to write this interesting story, mixing in an intriguing romance between Julienne (Lenna) Lane and Lieutenant Jack Arnaud.
I'll have to look for more of this author's work as I’ve enjoyed most of what I’ve read so far.
March 20, 2015
Fun little novella, I recommend it. But, it is basically three very short chapters with the hero and heroine having a misunderstanding. I can't really say anything since it would give away what little plot there is, but I will say that it was up to Ms. White's standard. But I do think Fairchild's Lady was better as far as short stories go.
G A few swears, nothing else.
G A few swears, nothing else.
June 15, 2020
This three-chapter story had so many positives!
The leads searched out good advice from trusted mentors, as well as seeking the Lord’s will on the subject. Hearing trusted voices and weighing their advice against God’s direction for us is crucial, and I like that it was highlighted here.
Such hope for the nation of the United States displayed in this shorty was exactly the reminder I needed in today’s society of tension, strife, and crime. With Jesus at the helm of our hearts, there is always hope!
I adored the perspective of respecting and protecting the President, even if the protector’s politics differed from the President’s. That’s respecting the leader God placed in charge of their country. That’s respecting the office of leadership. That’s obeying 1 Peter 2:13-17.
The theme of helping to free slaves was strong and good. We are each captive to something at one point or another, and breaking those spiritual chains of bondage is so vital to our well-being.
I can hardly wait to dive into the final Culper Ring book, Circle of Spies.
The leads searched out good advice from trusted mentors, as well as seeking the Lord’s will on the subject. Hearing trusted voices and weighing their advice against God’s direction for us is crucial, and I like that it was highlighted here.
Such hope for the nation of the United States displayed in this shorty was exactly the reminder I needed in today’s society of tension, strife, and crime. With Jesus at the helm of our hearts, there is always hope!
I adored the perspective of respecting and protecting the President, even if the protector’s politics differed from the President’s. That’s respecting the leader God placed in charge of their country. That’s respecting the office of leadership. That’s obeying 1 Peter 2:13-17.
The theme of helping to free slaves was strong and good. We are each captive to something at one point or another, and breaking those spiritual chains of bondage is so vital to our well-being.
I can hardly wait to dive into the final Culper Ring book, Circle of Spies.
June 2, 2015
I didn't realize until I was a third of the way in that I'd read this quickly last year and had a hard time making sense of what was going on. Since then I've read and enjoyed the first Culper Ring book, and suddenly I understood what was going on. 3 stars first reading, 4 stars second. I'd highly recommend reading at least one other of the Culper books before this short story.
Very pleasant tale of a quick spy mission.
Very pleasant tale of a quick spy mission.
October 15, 2019
A very story story centered around an assassination attempt on Andrew Jackson's life. I had a hard time getting into this story.
December 1, 2016
Having read this as part of the series, I can say that it can be read as a stand-alone *and* you don't have to read the .5 books to complete the novels. But... that being said... I enjoyed reading it as part of the series.
For being three chapters, wow! She sure packed in a lot. I learned an element of history I didn't know about an attempted assassination and was thrown fully into the era.
Again, romance was one of the core elements of the story, but I didn't find it all-consuming like "Shadows." In a gist, there comes a misunderstanding between the two lovers, which then creates the conflict that needs to be resolved in the story. I found it interesting and would have loved to read more about Jack and Julienne.
For being three chapters, wow! She sure packed in a lot. I learned an element of history I didn't know about an attempted assassination and was thrown fully into the era.
Again, romance was one of the core elements of the story, but I didn't find it all-consuming like "Shadows." In a gist, there comes a misunderstanding between the two lovers, which then creates the conflict that needs to be resolved in the story. I found it interesting and would have loved to read more about Jack and Julienne.
December 10, 2015
For being only 3 chapters long, this was remarkably well done. Since it is part of a series, it would probably be most enjoyable to read it in it's proper sequence, but I had absolutely no trouble trying to figure stuff out. It was all pretty self explanatory. Not too much drama, just enough to carry it through to the resolution. I definitely want to read more by this author!
July 10, 2019
I loved this little vignette (the story is but 3 chapters long, and takes place over the space of approximately 24 hours) between Lenna and her Jack. After having met Jack as a delightful 4 year old in the previous novel, I enjoyed seeing him all grown up, and set to marry the eldest child of his father's dearest friends.
Add to that secrets that are truly neither Lenna's nor Jack's to share, and an assassination attempt on the United States' President Andrew Jackson, and you have the recipe for a perfect addition to the Culper Ring saga!
Add to that secrets that are truly neither Lenna's nor Jack's to share, and an assassination attempt on the United States' President Andrew Jackson, and you have the recipe for a perfect addition to the Culper Ring saga!
June 24, 2017
As good as a short could be. As a part of a series, it carried the momentum of the previous books nicely, featuring most of the MCs whose stories we've already read. Strong characterization and plot development for the scant pages of this short have me hopeful for the last installment of this series.
November 28, 2018
Fun little novella surrounding a true event and what might have possibly led up to how it happened. Throw in some characters from the series, some spy work, runaway slaves and romance and this is what you get!
September 1, 2018
Cute story. Haven't read the other books yet, but was able to keep up with this having only a basic knowledge of the others.
August 4, 2022
So sweet to have a glimpse into the love story of Jack and Julienne in this little novella! I love following the family tree of the original characters from Book 1 and 2.
May 31, 2018
***4.5 stars***
Novellas usually aren't my thing, but since I was reading this series I wanted to make sure I completed it. I'm happy I read it, because I really liked it! My only problem is that it was a novella and not a full novel. I wanted more! I felt like I just read 3 chapters from a full book and was missing the beginning and ending. First, I loved the history and finding out from the author's note at the end that the incident in the book really happened! It was very interesting and I love when books teach me! I won't tell what happened cause spoilers! I also liked Jack and Lenna and would love to read more about them as they grew up and their feelings for each other developed. I look forward to reading about their daughter in Circle of Spies!
Novellas usually aren't my thing, but since I was reading this series I wanted to make sure I completed it. I'm happy I read it, because I really liked it! My only problem is that it was a novella and not a full novel. I wanted more! I felt like I just read 3 chapters from a full book and was missing the beginning and ending. First, I loved the history and finding out from the author's note at the end that the incident in the book really happened! It was very interesting and I love when books teach me! I won't tell what happened cause spoilers! I also liked Jack and Lenna and would love to read more about them as they grew up and their feelings for each other developed. I look forward to reading about their daughter in Circle of Spies!
August 19, 2016
A very good and interesting story
I really enjoyed this story. Although it is a work of fiction I appreciated reading about a topic I normally would never consider. I enjoyed the plot and the characters and d I didn't want this book to end. Thanks to the author for a very enjoyable read. I look forward reading more of her books. I recommend this book to anyone who loves to read historical fiction.
I really enjoyed this story. Although it is a work of fiction I appreciated reading about a topic I normally would never consider. I enjoyed the plot and the characters and d I didn't want this book to end. Thanks to the author for a very enjoyable read. I look forward reading more of her books. I recommend this book to anyone who loves to read historical fiction.
June 3, 2018
A Hero's Promise
This short novella is the perfect preview for the book " Circle of Spies". It gives you that extra little bit of info that is the perfect set up going into the third book of the Culper series! If you are a lover of historical fiction, this is the series for you!
This short novella is the perfect preview for the book " Circle of Spies". It gives you that extra little bit of info that is the perfect set up going into the third book of the Culper series! If you are a lover of historical fiction, this is the series for you!
July 23, 2017
Great little fill in between two of Roseanna's novels. I just love her writing! This follows Lenna and Jack just a couple days before their wedding and an attempt on President Jackson's life! A fun read.
December 30, 2014
I read this free short story, not knowing anything about the Culper Ring Series. It was quite engaging, but had I known there were previous books I would not have read this yet.
September 26, 2015
My favorite between the two short reads. Enough history and a little romance to boot.
October 26, 2019
From the way this started out, I wasn't sure how it was ever going to fit into such a small package, but it did, and very nicely. Nothing felt rushed or strained--unless you're one of those people who think a couple must always take at least 300 pages to work out a simple miscommunication/misunderstanding. :P I loved the sweet relationship between Jack and Lenna and the way they came to terms with each other's secrets while keeping their trust intact. And after Jack's adventure, I'm rather curious about these secret missions... Also, I had no idea until the note at the end that this was based on an actual historical event! Very nicely done. :)
Content--suspicions of various illicit activities; insults, including derogatory racial remarks;
Content--suspicions of various illicit activities; insults, including derogatory racial remarks;
June 4, 2019
Julienne Lane eagerly awaits naval officer Jack Arnaud. They are to be married. Julienne and her best friend, Freeda Payne support the abolitionist movement. Then Freeda shows up in Julienne's cellar with a runaway slave.
Even though this story is short, it packed a lot of punch. It gave me a sense of the time - 1835. Slaves and the first attempted assassination. Andrew Jackson had enemies. Richard Lawrence tried but his guns misfired. He was tried and found not guilty by reasons of insanity.
I love a good historical story. Reading this short story stirs my appetite for more of White's books.
Even though this story is short, it packed a lot of punch. It gave me a sense of the time - 1835. Slaves and the first attempted assassination. Andrew Jackson had enemies. Richard Lawrence tried but his guns misfired. He was tried and found not guilty by reasons of insanity.
I love a good historical story. Reading this short story stirs my appetite for more of White's books.
January 12, 2024
This is a short story romance set in 1835 Maryland providing backstory for two characters in the series. Lenna and Jack have loved each other forever, but their wedding keeps getting moved back. They argued because Jack wanted to move the date back again, and they started to doubt each other. Jack also did some spy activities (which he had time for, just not his wedding!) then regained Lenna's trust. The main characters were likable and reacted realistically. A real historical event was woven into the story. There was no sex or bad language. The story was enjoyable but probably most meaningful to those who have read the surrounding books in the series.
September 19, 2020
A short offering of a great series!
Having already read all of Roseanna M. White’s books so far, I was excited to see that there was this short story available. This is part of the series about the Culper Ring, a “family” of patriots active from our nation’s very beginning. Throughout this series, everyday Americans choose to serve their Lord by protecting the country they love. Any history buff will enjoy these novels that are set during pivotal times in American history. There is also romance, of course! Don’t miss these gems......
Having already read all of Roseanna M. White’s books so far, I was excited to see that there was this short story available. This is part of the series about the Culper Ring, a “family” of patriots active from our nation’s very beginning. Throughout this series, everyday Americans choose to serve their Lord by protecting the country they love. Any history buff will enjoy these novels that are set during pivotal times in American history. There is also romance, of course! Don’t miss these gems......
May 3, 2023
Julienne Lane has been helping a friend, Freeda, hide runaway slaves and get them to safety. Julienne is unsure whether to let her fiance, Jack Arnaud, in on the situation.
Meanwhile, Jack has postponed their wedding twice already but might have to do so again. A mentally unbalanced man is being set up by enemies to assassinate President Jackson, and the Culpers must intervene.
The assassination attempt was based on a true event.
I enjoyed these forays in early American history and spycraft. But even more, I enjoyed the journeys of faith Roseanna takes her characters through.
Meanwhile, Jack has postponed their wedding twice already but might have to do so again. A mentally unbalanced man is being set up by enemies to assassinate President Jackson, and the Culpers must intervene.
The assassination attempt was based on a true event.
I enjoyed these forays in early American history and spycraft. But even more, I enjoyed the journeys of faith Roseanna takes her characters through.
September 13, 2019
A series worth sharing
The more I read of the Culper's, and also other books about codes being used in war time , the more I am inspired by those from all walks of life . They risked their own lives as well as those of their families to aid freedom , life , and liberty for so many . I will be sad after reading the final book , Circle of Spies .
The more I read of the Culper's, and also other books about codes being used in war time , the more I am inspired by those from all walks of life . They risked their own lives as well as those of their families to aid freedom , life , and liberty for so many . I will be sad after reading the final book , Circle of Spies .
January 8, 2022
This short novella connects the second Culper Ring series to the third, giving some insight to earlier characters during the time lapse to the third. It deals with an historical fact I had not known - the assassination attempt on President Andrew Jackson as well as setting the stage for the next book. I liked the way White wove her characters into this event in a believable manner. Looking forward to book three, but I wish this novella had been longer.
November 21, 2019
Good story, good details.
Nice story. Good development of the characters and the historical details, especially for such a short book.
Next stop, book 3, Circle of Spies, to see the rest of this family's stories play out. It's been a great historical education for me so far, and I do love these people!
I've really enjoyed this author and series!
Nice story. Good development of the characters and the historical details, especially for such a short book.
Next stop, book 3, Circle of Spies, to see the rest of this family's stories play out. It's been a great historical education for me so far, and I do love these people!
I've really enjoyed this author and series!
August 10, 2020
I think the shortness of this novella created most of its problems. It was nice to have a glimpse at Jack’s romance, but it was barely that. There was an interesting tie to the history of America, but that was the best part of the novella. I didn’t feel like I got to learn much about the characters. And some of the characters didn’t act like themselves it didn’t seem.
February 24, 2022
This is a short novella in The Culper Ring series that connects books 1 and 2. Julienne Lane and her fiance, Jack, have had to put their wedding off several times due to Jack's service in the Navy and Julieene's involvement in the anti-slavery movement. Will this be the time they finally tie the knot or will it once again be postponed?
July 21, 2019
What a fun short story, continuing on with the same, beloved characters from the Culper Ring series! A mysterious love story, formed from American history during 1830s, very well written and quite enjoyable!
September 17, 2019
While this continues the Culper Ring series, this novella read a bit flat to me. The characters had great promise, but the love story was lacking. I did, however, enjoy learning more of the history of Andrew Jackson.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews