Forever My Own

Ladies of the Lake #2

by Tracie Peterson

In 1871, Kirstin Hallberg arrives in Duluth, Minnesota, to find the city council intent on building a canal and ensuring the city's rise to greatness. She's come to care for her elderly grandmother Lena Segerson only to discover Lena very full of life and full of secrets. For when Kirstin opens their front door one day, she finds the brother she long thought dead on the other side. Domar begs his sister to say nothing to their parents, viewing their grief as payment for falsely accusing him of bad behavior years prior and driving him from their Swedish village. Caught between her brother's wishes and the chance to ease her family's pain, Kirstin doesn't know which decision is right.When Domar's friend Ilian is hurt in an accident, Kirstin and her grandmother volunteer to care for him. Ilian struggles with his own bitterness toward his estranged father, heightened by his injured leg. He can now never return to logging, but the only other thing he really knows and enjoys is making Mackinaw boats--but that would force him to seek his father's help. As he recovers, a natural attraction starts between Ilian and Kirstin, but both are dealing with problems without easy answers. With no clear way forward, can love ever thriveand the past be forgiven?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Romance, Christian Romance, Christian, Inspirational

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 6, 2021

About the author

Tracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.

pen name: Janelle Jamison

Reviews

[Jacquelyn 💐 {This Rapunzel Reads} [Jesus Christ, my Living Hope] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Story of Forgiveness and Mercy! Kirsten arrives from Sweden to Duluth, Minnesota to help to take of her grandmother. Her grandmother is hiding something big…her older brother, Domar, who everyone thought is dead is very much alive! I love how her and Ilian, her brother’s friend, first meet! It was delightful! Ilain is quite grouchy in certain parts after his injury. But once he accepts Jesus, he is a changed man! I love how Ilian says that he fell in love with Kirsten when she fainted in his arms! I love the part when Domar asks God to forgive him! It was so refreshing and freeing! I didn’t like Ilian’s mother! She is just plain evil! Ilian’s father is such a good, Christian man! He has been through so incredibly much! My heart just broke for him! The moment when Ilian and his father finally make up, it was beautiful! How even though Ilian wasn’t his father’s by blood, his father chose him by love! Beautiful! This is a beautiful story of forgiveness and love and tears! I throughly enjoyed it! It could be read as a stand-alone. Book 1 character, Luke Carson is see briefly. Overall, 5 stars! Would read again!

[Andrea Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner by Tracie Peterson!

I adored this complex story of family secrets and new beginnings. It was fun to experience a well-written “enemies to friends to romance” storyline. This was one of the best of that trope I’ve read. The way misunderstandings, lies, and secrets intertwined to create a couple of estrangements was wonderful, because it made for fantastic tension and plot twists as the characters attempted to detangle the web one thread at a time. The canal-building angle was fascinating. I love how thorough Mrs. Peterson is in her research. That part of the story came alive vividly for me. I wonder what part of the lake’s development will be featured next time!

Content: alcohol, replacement profanity, marital affairs mentioned

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Duluth, MN - January-May and September 1871

The focus of this story is faith and family. Mistakes were made in the past that left a lot of people hurt in two families. There is reconciliation and forgiveness. It's messy and a bit repetitive. There is romance too. Two couples find happiness. One had more trouble than the other. Also, a canal and a hotel and towns fighting about it. This was a minor part of the story.

[CarolynB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 of the series: Besides all of the good feelings this stirs up, we learn of the history surrounding Detroit, Michigan. I never knew about its settling, and the Swedish people who came to America to settle there. Another thing, this is a very good study in the Christian way of life. I loved it!

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This touching story of family and faith set in 1871 is a wonderful addition to the Ladies of the Lake series. The smoothly flowing, steady paced plot kept my interest from beginning to end. The well-crafted characters are true-to-life and relatable. The beautifully sketched Duluth, Minnesota, setting along with rich historical details regarding the development of the city and its effects on the community bring the story to life. A double dose of sweet romance is endearing. The strong faith thread with themes of reconciliation and depending on God offers valuable life lessons. I totally enjoyed this book and highly recommend it and the series especially for historical romance fans. Note: Each book in the series is a standalone read.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 1872 Kirstin arrives in Duluth from Sweden. Soon after her arrival, her brother, Domar, shows up much to her surprise. For eleven years she and her family thought he was dead. He lives with some horrible secrets. His best friend is also estranged from his father and secrets are involved. Kirstin challernges them both to face the secrets and lies. Will they make things right with their families? Is there a romance developing between Kristin and her brother's friend?

[Megan McDonald · Rating 3 out of 5]

So…. What can I say I know it would be a fluffy easy read but I did enjoy the book still. The theme of forgiveness is strong in the book. I was a little shocked at the secrets kept from Kristen’s family but was glad when they all made amends. Ilain has always felt they his father was mean and rude to his mother. But he cannot believe what actually transpired his father sacrificed more and loved him more than he thought possible.

[Karen Siewert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, light read

[Kim · Rating 1 out of 5]

I learned about Swedish immigrants that settled in Minnesota. The history of Duluth was interesting. I would have preferred to learn all of that without the sermonizing and flat characters. Preachiness permeated the book even when religion wasn't being discussed. Kirsten interfered too much in other people's business. She was nosy and meddlesome. She felt it was her religious duty to be wise and offer advice. In truth, she was prideful about it.

[jaymee ☁️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

i have read over 40 Tracie Peterson books and this is my least favorite. it wasn’t horrible, but it wasn’t amazing. a few things:
1. i kept waiting for the couple to talk more and have a relationship prior to their family saying “oh when are you guys getting married?” i wasn’t rooting for them & felt no chemistry.
2. there wasn’t a villain!! i love the suspense of all her normal books where there’s danger and adventure. this one did not have that.
3. the epilogue was epic. God saved them!!

[Elizabeth Suli · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting in parts but quite boring. Not much happens and somehow the storyline didn’t really pull me in.

[Stacy Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the setting in Duluth and the faith!

[Melanie Tillman · Rating 2 out of 5]

It breaks my heart to give this book just two stars because I love this author, and I loved the first book in this series. This just isn't the quality of writing that Peterson usually delivers. If you're reading this review, and this is the first of her books you've read, give her another try.

This novel was all telling and no showing. It was mostly talking. So. Much. Talking. Many things that could have been riveting scenes were instead relayed after the fact in a conversation between two characters. The back story about Ilian's parents could have been told in flashback, but instead it's a long info-dump from Ilian's father. One scene at the end had so much potential, but we get it via the characters standing there talking while they watch it happen. This was in such stark contrast to how Peterson wrote the San Francisco earthquake and fires in her Golden Gate series. In those books, you felt you were there, living it with the characters. That's the Peterson I have come to love, not this. I'm wondering if this was a book she wrote in a hurry, uninspired, just to meet a deadline. That's how it feels.

That's the plot, but the characters didn't grip me, either. Kirstin comes across as so wise beyond her years, so perfect, that I started to actually dislike her. There was no chemistry at all between her and Ilian. The only reason I knew they were in love was because everyone kept saying they were. Again, just talking about things instead of them happening. Again, there was so much potential because their meeting was both humorous and adorable. That scene - where Ilian catches Kirstin when she faints - was the only one that sounded like Peterson's normal writing.

I hope the third Ladies of the Lake book is good. The first one was amazing, bringing to life a frontier that I've never read about before: the volatile Lake Superior. In that book, the lake was almost its own character - unpredictable, dangerous, and yet life-giving. You could feel the oppression, silence, and bitter cold of a winter on the lake as well. In this book, the lake was just . . . there. People looked at it, talked about it, but I wasn't immersed in the setting as before. I was also hoping to see Lucas and Glorianne again, but Lucas only appears in a tiny role.

I think every author has a miss, and I guess this was Peterson's. I'll still be reading her stuff, though, believe me!

[J. Else · Rating 4 out of 5]

1871. Trading a life in Sweden to care for her mormor (grandmother) in Duluth, Minnesota, Kirstin Hallberg is shocked to discover her brother survived the shipwreck which had counted him among the dead. After being shunned by their family, her brother Domar decided not to tell anyone except Mormor of his survival. Additionally, Mormor has been cared for by a man named Habram, who Kirstin learns is estranged from his stubborn, handsome, son. Can Kirstin help heal the wounds between a father and son? And can she convince her brother to forgive the pain in his past and let their family know he’s alive?

In this novel steeped in faith-filled conversations, Kirstin must learn to trust God’s plan like her Mormor, even as people in their neighborhood are forced out of their homes by a rich man with designs on building a hotel. Kirstin struggles to trust in things she cannot control instead of diving in and trying to fix them herself. Duluth history is intriguingly explored. I have a new appreciation for the risks and controversy behind creating the canal, a favorite landmark of present-day Duluth. The story is populated with interesting characters, and forgiveness is the central theme in this historical Christian romance.

Review originally posted via the Historical Novel Society at: https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...

[Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forever My Own had a lot of deep feeling to it. It wove together complex, emotional situations that had no immediate answer but taught a deeper lesson in the end. The processes Kirstin and Ilian went through challenged them but also helped them to discover a deeper truth and connection with the Lord. This made for a great tale along with an eye-opening spiritual lesson. The changes going on in Duluth made for an intriguing setting. You were drawn into this harsh but beautiful environment, and the unique occurrences made for a setting that drew you into the story even more. Kirstin was a likable main character, but her need to share her wisdom seemed very prideful and heavy handed at times. She did mention having gone through times where she had been convicted of the the pride that can come from wanting to help others in this way, but it still seemed like she had a little too much audacity in this area. Otherwise the story was an entertaining one. The ending brought everything together in a way that left you hopeful, happy, and complete. There was justice, but it was done so well because it left you feeling contemplative instead of puffed up.

[Lisa M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a stand-alone in the series. There is a reference to Luke Carson from book one, but not until the end. This book takes place sometime after the first book. The thing I liked most was the weaving in the Norwegian culture! I have a friend from Norway and so many of the names and references made connections with me! Now I know why she was called Mormor. ;)

I didn't like this book as much as the first. I felt like Kristin was honestly very self-righteous. Taking it upon herself to FIX other people as if God gave her that commission. I kept hoping she'd get to the point where she just left people alone and realized it was between them and God and she had no business getting into other people's issues. But sadly, it never was there. (LOL!)

The main idea of this book I think is that of forgiveness. Forgiveness when they don't deserve forgiveness. Forgiveness before they even apologize.

Even though I didn't like the main characters--I actually liked the grandmother the most--I will keep reading the series. I like that they stand alone.

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to the audio-version and the narrator did a commendable job bringing these characters in life. Based in Duluth, Minnesota during the late 1800s, it revolves around a family of Swedish immigrants. The main female character, Kirstin, is a bit head-strong and is a "fixer" even when her "fixing" is more of an intrusion where it is not welcome. She has a good heart, though, and tries to see the error of her ways. Kirstin travels from Sweden to the US to live with her widowed grandmother, who is a woman of strong faith and determination. It is a story about the government's eminent domain power and what that can do to people and families. It is also a story of love and forgiveness and a strong message that there is so often more to a story than we see on the surface and rushing to judgement is not a good thing. No sex or profanity.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forever My Own, by Tracie Peterson, is a wonderful historical fiction. I have read and enjoyed a number of books by this author and looked forward to reading this book. I was not disappointed. The author has deftly blended truth and fiction to create vivid characters, people you would want for friends, and placed them against the backdrop of the canal project of Duluth, Minnesota in the 1870s. The struggles of family relationships and the importance of forgiveness are entwined with a strong message of faith in God to bring a story of hope and second chances. And there is not just one romance but two in the story! Readers who enjoy historical romance stories will not want to miss this one. I read a library copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

[Priscilla · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was placid. Even the exciting parts were fairly toned down or hurried past. I’d say there were maybe two really exciting points and they both involved Ilian. Kirsten felt less like a main character about halfway through the story, and Ilian steals the show.

By the end of the book, what started off as a story with a Christian outlook turned into a full sermon. At one point, all five of the main cast go around saying how and why God is the Lord.

Interestingly, the story nearly persuaded me to turn back to God. But the repetitiveness and some other points I find fault with (in biblical debates) changed my mind again.

3.5–I liked the setting and characters. I just would have liked a little more excitement and cohesiveness. And better pacing.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading "Destined for You" I immediately checked this out from my library. I was so excited to continue the story that had captivated me, so I was disappointed when I realized that even though this story included new characters in the same area it really didn't have but one shared character from "Destined for You."

I appreciated the picture of hardship the immigrant family faced, especially in light of their rights as landowners. I did enjoy the tale and am anxiously awaiting the third in this series to be returned so I may check it out as well. Fingers crossed that some characters from the other two are included.

[Ken · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book up at first because the cover was so beautiful. In the end it was not the cover that made me appreicate the book but the story between the covers.
I enjoyed Kirstens story of coming to America to help her Mormor after her grandfather died. She made many discoveries along the way and many new friendships.

The lessons of faith in God and forgiveness were something I was encouraged by. I especially appreciated the authors acknowledging the struggle that can be associated with forgiveness. The subject was handled very well. This story flowed and carried me along like a lazy summer ride on a tube down the river. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's 1871 and Kirstin Hallberg is leaving Sweden to head to Duluth Minnesota to take care of her grandmother who is now alone after her husband's death. Little does she know of the surprises thay await her there. Will her job be more than just caring for her grandmother? Will she need to use her strong faith and desire for helping people to bring happiness to several people near and dear to her?

Tracie Peterson's novels never disappoint, and this one really touched my heart. The faith thread was strong throughout as well the emphasis on the reminder that God tells us that "truth will set us free."
I look forward to finishing this series.

[Taryn Spearey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so happy that I can finally say i have read this book. The think that kept me from reading it for so long was I had a hard time getting into the narrator of the audiobook. However, I finally pushed myself to complete this book, and I'm so glad I did.

Kirstin Hallberg arrives in Duluth to help look after her grandmother. When she's there, however, she finds out that her grandmother has been keeping a big secret from her and her parents.

I loved seeing Domar's journey to making things right with their parents. I wasn't on board with Domar trying to get Kirsten to continue lying to their parents for her brother.

The end of the book made me very happy. This was an awesome read!!

[Dianne Sidebottom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristin and Ilian's story
I recently had my DNA ethnicity results back and was surprised of my 38% Scandinavian (blue eyes, blonde hair) .I read this story with different eyes of Swedes going away from their country (like believers who are put out of families and denied belonging due to beliefs today)
Certainly the content gets you thinking. Black and white, truth and lies, punishment and forgiveness, what is better to belief. History of canals. Carson and Cooke continue in this story to supply support for people and industry.
Next book coming soon.

[Vivacity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book, I'll read the next!

I have read 2 books in this series, and I plan to continue!
This novel is Ser in the early settlement period for what will become Duluth, Minnesota. Kirsten comes to America after her grandfather dies, as a companion and helper for her grandmother. She faces shocking truths, and a couple of lost souls who need to embrace forgiveness and surrender to the Lord, who always knows best

[Jess Simmons · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the plot of this book but the overall feel was just a little too perfect. The dialogue was too precise and full of christianeze. The writing style felt trite at times. The protagonist was entirely too perfect. The plot had been plenty of things that should have caused her turmoil but the writing wasn’t engaging enough for me to feel it. It just didn’t quite feel real enough for me to fully enjoy it.

[Alyssa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked this up because I loved the cover and was interested in the history of Duluth. I didn't notice the author at the time, as it was covered by the library barcode. This was a good story of family and secrets, but I found some of the churchier parts tough to get through. Overall, it was a feel good story, as these usually are.

[Rita · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first book "Destined For You" in this series but this second book
"Forever My Own" was so full of hardship and negitivity that I couldn't finish it.
I don't like writing bad reviews, but I come here to get reviews that members add for all the books I want to read. I'm no quitter and just added the third one " Waiting on Love" Hoping this one is better.

[Dona]

Great story about the people and city of Duluth, MN at the start of city. Railroad coming to the town and the canal being dug. Interesting look at how the people handled the weather and changes going on.

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing, historical Christian fiction book! I especially loved the factual history shared at the end!
The themes of forgiveness, mercy, and grace... and ultimately depending on God's will... are throughout, and I LOVE reading books like this!