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Measure of Devotion
Disguised as her late brother, Cooper, in the 19th Massachusetts Volunteers, Catherine Samson fights to quell the Confederate rebellion and preserve her nation’s unity. She believes the Constitution’s declarations of equality and freedom apply to everyone, and dreams that someday they will extend to her own pursuit of happiness with a woman. Helping her father raise her siblings on their Gettysburg farm, Sophie Bauer likewise clings to hope for a woman to love, but when she serves as an army aide and meets Cooper, Sophie is confounded by her growing feelings for him. Catherine, meanwhile, wrestles with her deception and the disguise she must maintain. Disclosure could not only repulse Sophie but send Catherine home a social outcast. When the Battle of Gettysburg engulfs the Bauer farm, Catherine and Sophie learn far more about themselves than they ever expected. But first there’s a war—and hearts—to be won.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2021
30 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
C.F. Frizzell
7 books17 followersA life-long Massachusetts resident, CF Frizzell (“Friz”) endures the telecom industry in Boston for a living but dreams of retirement days spent writing at the seashore or in an Adirondack cabin. She grew up in community newspapers and established an award-winning twenty-two-year career that culminated in the role of founder/publisher. Friz discovered her passion for writing in high school, but credits powerhouse authors Lee Lynch, Radclyffe, and the generous family that is Bold Strokes Books for inspiration. She’s into history, acoustic guitar, New England pro sports—and, most of all, her partner, Kathy, with whom she makes a home in Sandwich on Cape Cod.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
June 22, 2021
4.75 stars. A journey that will stay with me for a long time. I enjoy historical fiction and this is the best one I’ve read so far this year, in fact it competes with my all-time favorites. It is also one of the most realistic books I’ve read, you feel the research that went in this book.
My knowledge of American history is pretty limited and one of the things I like about historical fiction is that I also learn a bit of history, in this case about the civil war with a special focus on the battle of Gettysburg. This book made me look up some things out of interest and the dates events and names of key players, but also behavior, correspondence etc. are authentic (something the author also mentions in a special “to the reader” section) and this accuracy is something I greatly appreciate.
Private Cooper Samson joined the army to fight for freedom and equality. However, Cooper is in fact Catherine Samson, who has taken her twin brothers’ identity after he died. In the field she meets Sophie Bauer, a farmer’s daughter, who aids the army by taking care of the wounded. Coop and Sophie strike up a friendship and get separated when Sophie returns home to Gettysburg. Soon they find themselves in near proximity of each other again, but unfortunately under the worst circumstances as the Bauer farm is exactly situated between the union and confederate army front lines.
This is not a light read. The life and hardships of the soldiers are described in detail, the camps, the marches and the battles that lead up to the battle of Gettysburg. The honor and loyalty of the soldiers fighting for their cause is apparent, but also the sense of desperation and anger when they are stuck in an impossibly bad situation and seeing the impact of the war on everything and everyone around them. One of those innovent bystander casualties is the Bauer farm and what happens there during the heat of the battle. While this specific farm is fictional, the situation is not. Some of the war “tactics” (basically overpowering the enemy by sheer numbers no matter how many people you lose) also made a deep impression on me. Obviously, I knew these things happened, but now it really came to life for me. Parts of the story are set in field hospitals, so the casualties and wounded are also described and with thousands of wounded it is not a pretty picture. Personally, I was glad all these details were not glossed over in order to make it a romantic story, but keeping it authentic. It’s raw, and this might be too much for some people, but I found myself completely engrossed in the story and could not put this book down.
The characters and the romance are other strong points of the book. There are some excellent secondary characters, but Coop and Sophie steal the show. Coop is considerate and brave and Sophie is both strong and nurturing. There is almost an immediately a spark between them, but they struggle with their feelings for each other, both for different reasons. The romance is very slow burn but so sweet, there is of course the hidden gender issue, but they are also separated during a large part of the book. I find the latter sometimes annoying in romance novels, but in this book I still felt the romance building and appreciated their moments together even better and the other storylines were so very good to read that I didn’t mind it at all. My only wish would be an epilogue just to see how some things worked out in time and to have a bit more HEA.
This book has my highest recommendation, especially if you like historical (war) fiction and appreciate a well-researched book.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
My knowledge of American history is pretty limited and one of the things I like about historical fiction is that I also learn a bit of history, in this case about the civil war with a special focus on the battle of Gettysburg. This book made me look up some things out of interest and the dates events and names of key players, but also behavior, correspondence etc. are authentic (something the author also mentions in a special “to the reader” section) and this accuracy is something I greatly appreciate.
Private Cooper Samson joined the army to fight for freedom and equality. However, Cooper is in fact Catherine Samson, who has taken her twin brothers’ identity after he died. In the field she meets Sophie Bauer, a farmer’s daughter, who aids the army by taking care of the wounded. Coop and Sophie strike up a friendship and get separated when Sophie returns home to Gettysburg. Soon they find themselves in near proximity of each other again, but unfortunately under the worst circumstances as the Bauer farm is exactly situated between the union and confederate army front lines.
This is not a light read. The life and hardships of the soldiers are described in detail, the camps, the marches and the battles that lead up to the battle of Gettysburg. The honor and loyalty of the soldiers fighting for their cause is apparent, but also the sense of desperation and anger when they are stuck in an impossibly bad situation and seeing the impact of the war on everything and everyone around them. One of those innovent bystander casualties is the Bauer farm and what happens there during the heat of the battle. While this specific farm is fictional, the situation is not. Some of the war “tactics” (basically overpowering the enemy by sheer numbers no matter how many people you lose) also made a deep impression on me. Obviously, I knew these things happened, but now it really came to life for me. Parts of the story are set in field hospitals, so the casualties and wounded are also described and with thousands of wounded it is not a pretty picture. Personally, I was glad all these details were not glossed over in order to make it a romantic story, but keeping it authentic. It’s raw, and this might be too much for some people, but I found myself completely engrossed in the story and could not put this book down.
The characters and the romance are other strong points of the book. There are some excellent secondary characters, but Coop and Sophie steal the show. Coop is considerate and brave and Sophie is both strong and nurturing. There is almost an immediately a spark between them, but they struggle with their feelings for each other, both for different reasons. The romance is very slow burn but so sweet, there is of course the hidden gender issue, but they are also separated during a large part of the book. I find the latter sometimes annoying in romance novels, but in this book I still felt the romance building and appreciated their moments together even better and the other storylines were so very good to read that I didn’t mind it at all. My only wish would be an epilogue just to see how some things worked out in time and to have a bit more HEA.
This book has my highest recommendation, especially if you like historical (war) fiction and appreciate a well-researched book.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2021
Yesterday was the anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg and I just finished Measure of Devotion which centers on a Union soldier fighting in the American Civil War. Catherine Samson is disguised as her late twin brother, Cooper, and no one is the wiser as she is only one of millions engaged on the battlefields.
Devotion is without a doubt, one of the best books that I’ve read this year. With a story involving famous events, there’s the danger of losing a casual reader because of the in-depth historical content. The author avoids miring the reader in backstory by using the very first sentence to insert us into the frantic chaos of a smoky battleground. Partly told in 3rd person from Cooper’s pov, I was immediately invested in her well-being. She’s brave and honorable, in constant danger, not only because of the enemy but also because the risk of discovery is ever present. You can’t help but be drawn to her indomitable spirit.
By no means is this a gimmicky tale with a superficial war background. The author skillfully intermingles real life details of horrific events that are brought to life by Cooper and her best friend, Tim, who fight for the end of slavery and for the country to stay whole. It’s an amazing balance of facts and fiction that remains potent throughout the book. There’s never a moment where I felt the story repeated itself. Each hill, every river crossing held its own challenges and heartbreak for Cooper and Tim.
The other main character, Sophie Bauer, is a volunteer with the Ladies Aid Society. The women follow behind the Union Army in wagons and assist in any way they can, mostly helping with the wounded. Sophie is a sweetheart with a side of spitfire. She displays compassion and fortitude in tending to the injured men who are housed in makeshift hospitals that are brutally inadequate.
Cooper and Sophie meet in the first chapter and are immediately struck by one another. What ensues is an old fashioned courtship and romance that brings light into the tragic setting. The tenderness that Sophie and Cooper show each other could melt an iceberg. Their chemistry and simple touches are a subdued fire.
The book has a satisfying ending but the war is not over at that point. Also, there are some lingering questions so I’m hoping for at least one more book. I strongly believe Measure of Devotion will appeal to fans beyond the subject matter. If you appreciate strong characters, good writing, and a touching love story, by all means, read Measure of Devotion. Five stars+.
One personal note, these are difficult times, a time when we want to honor those who sacrificed for our freedoms but we also want to acknowledge the deficits that exist for so many here in our country. I felt that heart-tug while I read this book. It doesn’t take a historian to see the divisive parallels of those years with our own, how those roots and seeds of our American past left their mark and so to this day, still detrimentally affect so many Americans. The author of this book navigated and walked the fine line of telling our American story with respect and truth.
Devotion is without a doubt, one of the best books that I’ve read this year. With a story involving famous events, there’s the danger of losing a casual reader because of the in-depth historical content. The author avoids miring the reader in backstory by using the very first sentence to insert us into the frantic chaos of a smoky battleground. Partly told in 3rd person from Cooper’s pov, I was immediately invested in her well-being. She’s brave and honorable, in constant danger, not only because of the enemy but also because the risk of discovery is ever present. You can’t help but be drawn to her indomitable spirit.
By no means is this a gimmicky tale with a superficial war background. The author skillfully intermingles real life details of horrific events that are brought to life by Cooper and her best friend, Tim, who fight for the end of slavery and for the country to stay whole. It’s an amazing balance of facts and fiction that remains potent throughout the book. There’s never a moment where I felt the story repeated itself. Each hill, every river crossing held its own challenges and heartbreak for Cooper and Tim.
The other main character, Sophie Bauer, is a volunteer with the Ladies Aid Society. The women follow behind the Union Army in wagons and assist in any way they can, mostly helping with the wounded. Sophie is a sweetheart with a side of spitfire. She displays compassion and fortitude in tending to the injured men who are housed in makeshift hospitals that are brutally inadequate.
Cooper and Sophie meet in the first chapter and are immediately struck by one another. What ensues is an old fashioned courtship and romance that brings light into the tragic setting. The tenderness that Sophie and Cooper show each other could melt an iceberg. Their chemistry and simple touches are a subdued fire.
The book has a satisfying ending but the war is not over at that point. Also, there are some lingering questions so I’m hoping for at least one more book. I strongly believe Measure of Devotion will appeal to fans beyond the subject matter. If you appreciate strong characters, good writing, and a touching love story, by all means, read Measure of Devotion. Five stars+.
One personal note, these are difficult times, a time when we want to honor those who sacrificed for our freedoms but we also want to acknowledge the deficits that exist for so many here in our country. I felt that heart-tug while I read this book. It doesn’t take a historian to see the divisive parallels of those years with our own, how those roots and seeds of our American past left their mark and so to this day, still detrimentally affect so many Americans. The author of this book navigated and walked the fine line of telling our American story with respect and truth.
May 24, 2021
Wow! I have so many wonderful things to say about Measure of Devotion by C.F. Frizzell that I don’t even know where to begin. Since historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, and I’m also a former middle school history teacher, I knew I was going to enjoy this novel. I just didn’t realize how much I would love it.
This is the fictional story of Catherine Samson who takes on her dead brother’s identity and becomes Private Cooper Samson of the 19th Massachusetts Volunteers. As she and her fellow soldiers fight the Confederate Army in some of the war’s deadliest battles, she meets and becomes friends with Sophie Bauer. Sophie is a member of the Lady’s Aid Society which is helping the wounded soldiers just behind the battle lines. Even after Sophie leaves for her home in Gettysburg the two stay in touch through letters until those fateful days of July 1-3, 1863, when Sophie’s family home becomes the focus point of the deadliest battle of the Civil War, The Battle of Gettysburg.
The most brilliant aspect of this novel is how real the author makes the story. “Cooper”, Sophie, and their immediate family and friends are fictional. Sophie’s family farm is fictional as well, though what happened inside the farmhouse in this story did happen in real life to several farms located in the real battlefield. Other than the tale of Cooper and Sophie, the rest of this story is true. The battles are real in all their deadly, gory detail. Some of the secondary characters are authentic historical figures. The sights and sounds of the battles, the soldiers’ everyday lives, smells and scenes around the medical tents…all are factual. The author even has the characters using the correct speech pattern of the time. You can especially see this in the letters Cooper and Sophie write to each other.
Ms. Frizzell created an amazing story of war with all the courage, patriotism, horror, loss, and destruction you expect from such a tale. Layered in between all that is one of the sweetest love stories I’ve read in a while.
I won’t be surprised if this novel wins an award or two in the coming year. In fact, I’ll be disappointed if it doesn’t. It shot to the very top of my favorites list, and has my highest recommendation.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
This is the fictional story of Catherine Samson who takes on her dead brother’s identity and becomes Private Cooper Samson of the 19th Massachusetts Volunteers. As she and her fellow soldiers fight the Confederate Army in some of the war’s deadliest battles, she meets and becomes friends with Sophie Bauer. Sophie is a member of the Lady’s Aid Society which is helping the wounded soldiers just behind the battle lines. Even after Sophie leaves for her home in Gettysburg the two stay in touch through letters until those fateful days of July 1-3, 1863, when Sophie’s family home becomes the focus point of the deadliest battle of the Civil War, The Battle of Gettysburg.
The most brilliant aspect of this novel is how real the author makes the story. “Cooper”, Sophie, and their immediate family and friends are fictional. Sophie’s family farm is fictional as well, though what happened inside the farmhouse in this story did happen in real life to several farms located in the real battlefield. Other than the tale of Cooper and Sophie, the rest of this story is true. The battles are real in all their deadly, gory detail. Some of the secondary characters are authentic historical figures. The sights and sounds of the battles, the soldiers’ everyday lives, smells and scenes around the medical tents…all are factual. The author even has the characters using the correct speech pattern of the time. You can especially see this in the letters Cooper and Sophie write to each other.
Ms. Frizzell created an amazing story of war with all the courage, patriotism, horror, loss, and destruction you expect from such a tale. Layered in between all that is one of the sweetest love stories I’ve read in a while.
I won’t be surprised if this novel wins an award or two in the coming year. In fact, I’ll be disappointed if it doesn’t. It shot to the very top of my favorites list, and has my highest recommendation.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
July 4, 2021
I have been an American Civil War buff for a long time so was excited to read this account of two women caught up in one of the bloodiest battles on American soil, the battle of Gettysburg.
Catherine Sampson joins the Union army when her family is killed in an accident, taking on the persona of her twin brother Cooper. Her resemblance to her brother aids in her disguise, even fooling Sophie Bauer, a young Ladies Aid volunteer helping with the wounded soldiers. Sophie is confused by her attraction to the kind and courageous Coop as she has never been attracted to a man before. Their friendship leads to a kiss and a promise to stay in touch when Sophie finishes her service and returns home to her family farm near Gettysburg.
I was so impressed with the historical accuracy the author achieves in Measure of Devotion. Her portrayal of the day to day life of a Union soldier, the endless marching, the bloody battles and the leadership debates rang true as did the hardships endured by both soldiers and citizens. Her use of secondary characters helped the reader understand the mindset of both the Confederate and Union soldiers and the attitudes and prejudices of the times. I loved how she wove the story of two women hoping against hope for a chance to build a life together while the battle raged around them. The danger both faced made their kisses and tender moments all the more precious.
Excellent historical romance along with a reminder to all of us of the price of freedom and the injustice so many continue to face.
5 stars
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Catherine Sampson joins the Union army when her family is killed in an accident, taking on the persona of her twin brother Cooper. Her resemblance to her brother aids in her disguise, even fooling Sophie Bauer, a young Ladies Aid volunteer helping with the wounded soldiers. Sophie is confused by her attraction to the kind and courageous Coop as she has never been attracted to a man before. Their friendship leads to a kiss and a promise to stay in touch when Sophie finishes her service and returns home to her family farm near Gettysburg.
I was so impressed with the historical accuracy the author achieves in Measure of Devotion. Her portrayal of the day to day life of a Union soldier, the endless marching, the bloody battles and the leadership debates rang true as did the hardships endured by both soldiers and citizens. Her use of secondary characters helped the reader understand the mindset of both the Confederate and Union soldiers and the attitudes and prejudices of the times. I loved how she wove the story of two women hoping against hope for a chance to build a life together while the battle raged around them. The danger both faced made their kisses and tender moments all the more precious.
Excellent historical romance along with a reminder to all of us of the price of freedom and the injustice so many continue to face.
5 stars
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
October 6, 2021
I mostly enjoyed this historic drama, with the 'woman pretending to be a man' trope, set in the American Civil War.. but found the romance did fall a little flat to me, and sort of ended abruptly therefore felt anti-climactic.
Lots of details about the battles and daily life as a solider in the American Civil War, with our MC Cooper Samson pretending to be her twin brother.
It was refreshing at least that our love interest, Sophie, knew herself to be a woman loving woman - so there was little gay panic there - but no further detail on that was ever forthcoming. The same with Coops own interests in women, never being stated, but assumed because of their hiding their gender?
So many times a tidbit of information would be assumed, or in other ways arise that you thought might give way to drama (As as Coops long estranged older brother) that just never went anywhere, or was decided without discussion. It was perplexing.
The same with the slight drama at the end, where Sophie and Cooper are trying to come to terms with if their relationship could work, when Coop has a farm of their own to get back to, while Sophie is struggling to get their own family farm up and running while looking after her siblings.... It all just felt forced. The obvious answer was just not even thought about until all the angsting was done? Which frustrated me, immensely.
The lovers words to each other were sweet, but it took too long to find out the secret - and for any real relationship to bloom, and honestly I still feel like it never really did. I just wanted more.
Lots of details about the battles and daily life as a solider in the American Civil War, with our MC Cooper Samson pretending to be her twin brother.
It was refreshing at least that our love interest, Sophie, knew herself to be a woman loving woman - so there was little gay panic there - but no further detail on that was ever forthcoming. The same with Coops own interests in women, never being stated, but assumed because of their hiding their gender?
So many times a tidbit of information would be assumed, or in other ways arise that you thought might give way to drama (As as Coops long estranged older brother) that just never went anywhere, or was decided without discussion. It was perplexing.
The same with the slight drama at the end, where Sophie and Cooper are trying to come to terms with if their relationship could work, when Coop has a farm of their own to get back to, while Sophie is struggling to get their own family farm up and running while looking after her siblings.... It all just felt forced. The obvious answer was just not even thought about until all the angsting was done? Which frustrated me, immensely.
The lovers words to each other were sweet, but it took too long to find out the secret - and for any real relationship to bloom, and honestly I still feel like it never really did. I just wanted more.
June 27, 2021
3.5 stars - Lot's of info on the Civil War leading up the battle of Gettysburg and some romance
I did enjoy reading this historical romance and thank you, CF Frizzell, for getting me online and looking stuff up. I will say that I know very little about the Civil War so I felt a bit lost. It did help get me oriented when I looked up some battlefield maps and watched a few videos about the Battle at Gettysburg. It was rough reading. So many lives lost. You can tell the author was very moved by her experience visiting the sites around Gettysburg. She did a ton of research and it shows.
I loved both our MCs. There is a slight twist to the usual disguised-as-a-man trope in that the soldier's love interest knows she likes women and wants to find one to share her life with. She is super confused about why she is attracted to Coop. It was kinda fun that when the "reveal" finally happened she was more relieved than mad. :) She was not losing her mind after all!
I wouldn't say this was one of my fav historical romances, because the war stuff was really hard to read about and I was a bit confused some of the time about what was happening. And there is a large part of the book where the MC's are separated, though, they did interact through letters. But I did enjoy their interactions and language. I am a fan of the flowery speech patterns when one is wooing. :)
All in all a solid read, and if you already know you enjoy historical romances, you should consider this book for sure.
I did enjoy reading this historical romance and thank you, CF Frizzell, for getting me online and looking stuff up. I will say that I know very little about the Civil War so I felt a bit lost. It did help get me oriented when I looked up some battlefield maps and watched a few videos about the Battle at Gettysburg. It was rough reading. So many lives lost. You can tell the author was very moved by her experience visiting the sites around Gettysburg. She did a ton of research and it shows.
I loved both our MCs. There is a slight twist to the usual disguised-as-a-man trope in that the soldier's love interest knows she likes women and wants to find one to share her life with. She is super confused about why she is attracted to Coop. It was kinda fun that when the "reveal" finally happened she was more relieved than mad. :) She was not losing her mind after all!
I wouldn't say this was one of my fav historical romances, because the war stuff was really hard to read about and I was a bit confused some of the time about what was happening. And there is a large part of the book where the MC's are separated, though, they did interact through letters. But I did enjoy their interactions and language. I am a fan of the flowery speech patterns when one is wooing. :)
All in all a solid read, and if you already know you enjoy historical romances, you should consider this book for sure.
September 4, 2021
4,0 stars
As far as America civil-war lesfics go I liked this a bit less than the Redmond saga (by T. Novan and Taylor Rickards) but it was really enjoyable nevertheless. For me as a non-american person it was a really interesting lesson about their civil-war because we only mentioned it briefly during our history lessons. So I appreciated that a lot of the geographical stuff was explained in this novel. It helped with visualisation.
Cooper was a likeable MC and even though Sophie and her sibling sometimes seemed a bit too good to be true (especially a 12yo girl passionately ranting about equality of all races and genders) they were all well written and one can't help but root for them.
I would really like to read more about Cooper's and Sophie's lives in the aftermath of the war. Where did they decide to go? Did Cooper have to return to active duty? It would have been quite a bit more interesting than constantly reading about them sitting in the mud or being filthy and wounded. Yes, it was realistic, but that's not why we read historical romances, is it?
As far as America civil-war lesfics go I liked this a bit less than the Redmond saga (by T. Novan and Taylor Rickards) but it was really enjoyable nevertheless. For me as a non-american person it was a really interesting lesson about their civil-war because we only mentioned it briefly during our history lessons. So I appreciated that a lot of the geographical stuff was explained in this novel. It helped with visualisation.
Cooper was a likeable MC and even though Sophie and her sibling sometimes seemed a bit too good to be true (especially a 12yo girl passionately ranting about equality of all races and genders) they were all well written and one can't help but root for them.
I would really like to read more about Cooper's and Sophie's lives in the aftermath of the war. Where did they decide to go? Did Cooper have to return to active duty? It would have been quite a bit more interesting than constantly reading about them sitting in the mud or being filthy and wounded. Yes, it was realistic, but that's not why we read historical romances, is it?
July 16, 2021
The amount of work and research Frizzell put into this story is evident in every page. The love story between Coop and Sophie just fit right in and made the brutal and senseless history all the more bearable. Not only have I learnt from this story... I was moved by it too.
It's such a great read!
It's such a great read!
May 27, 2021
This was a brilliant book backed by a realistic tale, held up by history, written by a talented author.
History has proven that many women did indeed pose as men throughout the years, so I had no trouble believing in Coop and Sophie. I appreciated the author's dedication to research and getting the story right, and even though the battles, destruction and death were hard to read about, I knew that my discomfort was nothing compared to what real people felt during those skirmishes. Despite my best intentions, I read this in three sittings...the last half of the book was a marathon I couldn't have quit even if I'd wanted to. Which I did not. I HAD to keep reading!
I connected with these characters, even Tim. Their struggles, their defeats and accomplishments and victories became my own and at many points, I thought I could hear the cannon fire and feel the dust as it rained down. To say this tale was gripping and immersive does not do it justice. To call it atmospheric does not go far enough to describe the absolute hold it had on my senses.
This was my first exposure to C.F. Frizzell, but it will not be my last.
Measure of Devotion is a magnificent example of what lesbian historical fiction can be and should be recommended reading for every author who casts an eye toward historical fiction.
I am honored to offer up this honest review in exchange for an ARC of this wonderful novel. Many thanks to C.F Frizzell, Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley.
History has proven that many women did indeed pose as men throughout the years, so I had no trouble believing in Coop and Sophie. I appreciated the author's dedication to research and getting the story right, and even though the battles, destruction and death were hard to read about, I knew that my discomfort was nothing compared to what real people felt during those skirmishes. Despite my best intentions, I read this in three sittings...the last half of the book was a marathon I couldn't have quit even if I'd wanted to. Which I did not. I HAD to keep reading!
I connected with these characters, even Tim. Their struggles, their defeats and accomplishments and victories became my own and at many points, I thought I could hear the cannon fire and feel the dust as it rained down. To say this tale was gripping and immersive does not do it justice. To call it atmospheric does not go far enough to describe the absolute hold it had on my senses.
This was my first exposure to C.F. Frizzell, but it will not be my last.
Measure of Devotion is a magnificent example of what lesbian historical fiction can be and should be recommended reading for every author who casts an eye toward historical fiction.
I am honored to offer up this honest review in exchange for an ARC of this wonderful novel. Many thanks to C.F Frizzell, Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley.
May 18, 2021
This is a historical novel about the Civil War in the US. There is a lot of detail surrounding the war, so if you like a good historical novel you will love this one.
Cooper is a woman, disguised as her twin brother, living her life as a soldier in the Union. Sophie, is a young woman trying to take care of her family and serve her country. The meet during war and slowly fall in love.
This is a really intelligent piece, but possibly a little too high brow for my liking. I enjoy historical novels, but not necessarily war related. There was romance, but the focus was just as much on the intricacies of the Civil War as it was on the romance aspect.
Cooper is a woman, disguised as her twin brother, living her life as a soldier in the Union. Sophie, is a young woman trying to take care of her family and serve her country. The meet during war and slowly fall in love.
This is a really intelligent piece, but possibly a little too high brow for my liking. I enjoy historical novels, but not necessarily war related. There was romance, but the focus was just as much on the intricacies of the Civil War as it was on the romance aspect.
June 12, 2021
Historical fiction holds a certain fascination for me. I admire the ingenuity of authors to fine tune a well known event into a smaller and more intimate point of view from their characters. CF Frizzell has achieved this successfully with her earlier novels chronicling the prohibition years and does so again in Measure of Devotion.
You can tell this story is special to Frizzell even without reading the chapter To the Reader. The attention to historical detail, no matter how gruesome, and the care she takes in describing the battle scenes is her best work to date.
Disguised as her twin brother, Catherine “Cooper” Samson is fighting on the Union side in the Civil War. She is one year into the war when she meets Sophie Bauer, a medical volunteer from the Gettysburg area. The war keeps them separate for a healthy portion of the novel however the beautifully composed letters between Cooper and Sophie keeps them bound together on the page.
Measure of Devotion is a beautifully crafted story depicting the devotion of a sibling to their family, soldiers to fight for their cause, friendships formed in battle and two women falling in love. The Battle of Gettysburg displays the ultimate devotion of soldiers to their leaders no matter their personal cost.
Frizzell has written a story sure to pull on your heart strings. This is definitely a must read novel.
You can tell this story is special to Frizzell even without reading the chapter To the Reader. The attention to historical detail, no matter how gruesome, and the care she takes in describing the battle scenes is her best work to date.
Disguised as her twin brother, Catherine “Cooper” Samson is fighting on the Union side in the Civil War. She is one year into the war when she meets Sophie Bauer, a medical volunteer from the Gettysburg area. The war keeps them separate for a healthy portion of the novel however the beautifully composed letters between Cooper and Sophie keeps them bound together on the page.
Measure of Devotion is a beautifully crafted story depicting the devotion of a sibling to their family, soldiers to fight for their cause, friendships formed in battle and two women falling in love. The Battle of Gettysburg displays the ultimate devotion of soldiers to their leaders no matter their personal cost.
Frizzell has written a story sure to pull on your heart strings. This is definitely a must read novel.
December 29, 2021
Catherine Samson, disguised as her brother Cooper, joined the fight against the Confederate soldiers. It's on the battlefield that he meets Sophie, serving as a nurse in the army. The two grow closer as the war heats up around them, but Catherine has her secret and doesn't know how Sophie will react to the truth that she's a woman. But their love is stronger than that? Isn't it?
I'm quite picky when it comes to historical fiction but this one was excellently written. I really enjoyed the slow burn nature of the romance that kept you savouring every word of their interactions and their letters while the action packed battles kept you flipping pages as fast as you could read. The setting of the American Civil War is not something I'm familiar with but I suppose all the events and battles are things Americans are familiar with and would create quite the driving structure for the story knowing what comes next. Still I found the book detailed and immersive without being dry, I love how the author engaged all the senses to bring us into Catherine's camp and Sophie's farm and home. I loved both main characters - I especially loved that Sophie, the more feminine of the two, was so confident in her sexuality.
This was actually my first book by the author and I will definitely have to go back to read the other books including the historical fiction.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm quite picky when it comes to historical fiction but this one was excellently written. I really enjoyed the slow burn nature of the romance that kept you savouring every word of their interactions and their letters while the action packed battles kept you flipping pages as fast as you could read. The setting of the American Civil War is not something I'm familiar with but I suppose all the events and battles are things Americans are familiar with and would create quite the driving structure for the story knowing what comes next. Still I found the book detailed and immersive without being dry, I love how the author engaged all the senses to bring us into Catherine's camp and Sophie's farm and home. I loved both main characters - I especially loved that Sophie, the more feminine of the two, was so confident in her sexuality.
This was actually my first book by the author and I will definitely have to go back to read the other books including the historical fiction.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2021
I love historical fiction when it is done well and has an attention to detail. Historical accuracy isn't always super important for me, but historically accurate details are always fun little easter eggs for me to give a book a little more fleshed out world. I loved that about this book, along with some of the ways in which the author denotes time. Fizzell also gives a balance between slightly more modern diction and using the more formalized speech we associate with the time period. While it makes most of the book feel alittle slower, I also liked that our protagonists Catherine (Coop) and Sophie had to correspond through letters, and that their relationship developed through them rather than the little time they had with each other.
I think a lot of folks might get frustrated that Coop and Sophie are apart so much, but I thought it made the times they had together more impactful, even though I fought the urge to actually skip over to those sections. I thought Coop's and Sophie's chemistry was amazing, and I love that they got to finally have their time together at the end of the book, it seemed fitting, too as Coop and Sophie lost so much during the course of the war, especially during the battle of Gettysburg, and that they had their person to lean on was an amazing thing.
So, with that said, the book mostly follows Sophie beginning in 1862 as the war really starts to kick into gear. She's a volunteer nurse through a Ladies Society out of her hometown of Gettysburg, PA. Because her hometown is Gettysburg, we know that we will get to the three day battle. But in getting there, Sophie meets Coop, gets confused that she is so attracted to who she believes is a man as she is firmly in the ladies-who-love-ladies camp, but can't help herself. Coop is just that compelling a person to her. As Coop moves in and out of her orbit, Sophie must also deal with the day to day uncertainty of living so close to the Mason Dixon line. She also eagerly follows the news of battles fought by Coop's Massachusetts 19th, and anxiously awaiting Coop's letters to know she's alive. I like this focus on the civilian side of the war. Coop gets her time, but it mostly is during the quiet hours of waiting for a battle to happen or marching to intercept it, where as Sophie, as the eldest daughter, and unofficial leader of her town feels the war in a different way. She has seen how bad it can get, and the town is aware they might have the war at their doors.
The last 1/3 of the book focuses on how Cooper and Sophie experience the battle of Gettysburg. When the battle actually hits, it hits hard, especially for Sophie. Her home becomes a field hospital due to her reputation earned as a medical volunteer. But it also gets ripped to shreds by cannon fire from both sides. Time has no meaning for Sophie, as she constantly moving. The quiet hours waffle between being a wary tension and tiredness. Coop's unit is part of the brutal action that occurs during the infamous Pickett's Charge. They're a backup unit, forced to wait while Union soldiers at the breastworks on Cemetery ridge are picked to pieces. When Pickett's soldiers finally breach, Cooper is forced into chaotic hand to hand combat as Union soldiers desperately fight to hold the line.
I loved reading through the battle, mostly because this was Frizzell at her best. She doesn't shy away from describing some of the carnage that the women see, but doesn't do it gratuitously. Cannon fire, especially, brutal. She also gives some quiet times, as Sophie helps comfort her younger siblings, or Coop and her friend, Tim, talk about their loved ones, and Tim encouraging Coop to pursue a relationship with Sophie. But it all meshes together, as the 3 days are essentially blended together. It really isn't until a couple weeks later, as Coop is recovering from a broken arm and Sophie works to rebuild the house, that the characters get true quiet. I loved that. There's a reason why Gettysburg is the battle that characterizes the US Civil War. And I think through the lenses of these two women, we see why.
I have gone on too long, so I'll say that historical fiction readers while love this. Yes it leans a little into the romance, but not as much as you'd think. I loved that Frizzle subtly gives nods to little talked about aspects (from certain lenses) of the war. I can tell that Frizzle cares about humanizing the people in the war, even the Confederate Soldiers. Because, while she made a point about how morally awful the Confederacy's ideology is, she still gave the soldiers their humanity. Though I found some of the pacing a little slow, I thought this book was well written, that doesn't shy away from the carnage. The ending is open ended, as the War still has about a year and a half to go, which is fine with me. If we get to see the rest of Sophie's and Coop's story, I'd be happy. If not, the kernel of hope that it gives is fine enough for me.
*I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I think a lot of folks might get frustrated that Coop and Sophie are apart so much, but I thought it made the times they had together more impactful, even though I fought the urge to actually skip over to those sections. I thought Coop's and Sophie's chemistry was amazing, and I love that they got to finally have their time together at the end of the book, it seemed fitting, too as Coop and Sophie lost so much during the course of the war, especially during the battle of Gettysburg, and that they had their person to lean on was an amazing thing.
So, with that said, the book mostly follows Sophie beginning in 1862 as the war really starts to kick into gear. She's a volunteer nurse through a Ladies Society out of her hometown of Gettysburg, PA. Because her hometown is Gettysburg, we know that we will get to the three day battle. But in getting there, Sophie meets Coop, gets confused that she is so attracted to who she believes is a man as she is firmly in the ladies-who-love-ladies camp, but can't help herself. Coop is just that compelling a person to her. As Coop moves in and out of her orbit, Sophie must also deal with the day to day uncertainty of living so close to the Mason Dixon line. She also eagerly follows the news of battles fought by Coop's Massachusetts 19th, and anxiously awaiting Coop's letters to know she's alive. I like this focus on the civilian side of the war. Coop gets her time, but it mostly is during the quiet hours of waiting for a battle to happen or marching to intercept it, where as Sophie, as the eldest daughter, and unofficial leader of her town feels the war in a different way. She has seen how bad it can get, and the town is aware they might have the war at their doors.
The last 1/3 of the book focuses on how Cooper and Sophie experience the battle of Gettysburg. When the battle actually hits, it hits hard, especially for Sophie. Her home becomes a field hospital due to her reputation earned as a medical volunteer. But it also gets ripped to shreds by cannon fire from both sides. Time has no meaning for Sophie, as she constantly moving. The quiet hours waffle between being a wary tension and tiredness. Coop's unit is part of the brutal action that occurs during the infamous Pickett's Charge. They're a backup unit, forced to wait while Union soldiers at the breastworks on Cemetery ridge are picked to pieces. When Pickett's soldiers finally breach, Cooper is forced into chaotic hand to hand combat as Union soldiers desperately fight to hold the line.
I loved reading through the battle, mostly because this was Frizzell at her best. She doesn't shy away from describing some of the carnage that the women see, but doesn't do it gratuitously. Cannon fire, especially, brutal. She also gives some quiet times, as Sophie helps comfort her younger siblings, or Coop and her friend, Tim, talk about their loved ones, and Tim encouraging Coop to pursue a relationship with Sophie. But it all meshes together, as the 3 days are essentially blended together. It really isn't until a couple weeks later, as Coop is recovering from a broken arm and Sophie works to rebuild the house, that the characters get true quiet. I loved that. There's a reason why Gettysburg is the battle that characterizes the US Civil War. And I think through the lenses of these two women, we see why.
I have gone on too long, so I'll say that historical fiction readers while love this. Yes it leans a little into the romance, but not as much as you'd think. I loved that Frizzle subtly gives nods to little talked about aspects (from certain lenses) of the war. I can tell that Frizzle cares about humanizing the people in the war, even the Confederate Soldiers. Because, while she made a point about how morally awful the Confederacy's ideology is, she still gave the soldiers their humanity. Though I found some of the pacing a little slow, I thought this book was well written, that doesn't shy away from the carnage. The ending is open ended, as the War still has about a year and a half to go, which is fine with me. If we get to see the rest of Sophie's and Coop's story, I'd be happy. If not, the kernel of hope that it gives is fine enough for me.
*I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 17, 2021
Historical fiction, US Civil War (especially Gettysburg), hidden identity, romance. As any war-time set book should be, this is NOT always an easy read - I can't tell you the number of times I looked up and said to my partner "fighting in the Civil War sounds awful" - but I was rooting for the two characters from start to finish. Such a good read. I went right out and pre-ordered this book after reading this arc.
After the sudden death by accident of her parents and brother, Catherine Samson has nothing left so she assumes her brother, Cooper's, identity and takes up his commission with the Massachusetts Volunteers fighting for the Union in the US Civil War. While in camp one day, she comes across Sophie Bauer, a volunteer with the women's auxiliary corp. Sophie is as instantly struck by the dashing young soldier as Coop is to her; however, Sophie is confused - Sophie knows she is only attracted to women, so how is it possible for her to feel such things for Cooper. The war plagues both of their lives, eventually arriving on the doorstep of Sophie's family home on the fields of Gettysburg, PA. But if the two can just continue to survive, perhaps a better future is in store.
*I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
After the sudden death by accident of her parents and brother, Catherine Samson has nothing left so she assumes her brother, Cooper's, identity and takes up his commission with the Massachusetts Volunteers fighting for the Union in the US Civil War. While in camp one day, she comes across Sophie Bauer, a volunteer with the women's auxiliary corp. Sophie is as instantly struck by the dashing young soldier as Coop is to her; however, Sophie is confused - Sophie knows she is only attracted to women, so how is it possible for her to feel such things for Cooper. The war plagues both of their lives, eventually arriving on the doorstep of Sophie's family home on the fields of Gettysburg, PA. But if the two can just continue to survive, perhaps a better future is in store.
*I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
March 30, 2022
This was a great depiction of the Civil War particularly the battles that led up to the Gettysburg battle between the North and the South from the POV of an army soldier from the 19th Massachusetts regiment Cooper Samson (aka his twin Catherine Samson), and a young farm girl (Sophie) from the Gettysburg area who has volunteered to help the medical corp from the Union army. It was gut wrenching and suspenseful every time I thought Coop was getting shot! Sophie was a very brave young woman who fell in love with Cooper and she was helping the wounded in her home, both North and South. I could go on and on but the bottom line is this is a terrific book! Enjoy!
October 4, 2022
I had a tough time putting this one down. Very well done!
I will say I was let down by the ending a bit. I expected a bit more when I turned the page on the penultimate chapter only to find something that maybe shouldn't have been the end to the book. An addendum or something, maybe, but not the end of the book.
Even with that, it's a solid read and I recommend it for anyone interested in historical fiction.
Thanks to BSB and NetGalley for the copy.
I will say I was let down by the ending a bit. I expected a bit more when I turned the page on the penultimate chapter only to find something that maybe shouldn't have been the end to the book. An addendum or something, maybe, but not the end of the book.
Even with that, it's a solid read and I recommend it for anyone interested in historical fiction.
Thanks to BSB and NetGalley for the copy.
July 31, 2021
Wow wow wow
First let me say wow. This book will stay with me for a long while. It was magnificent and I loved it. I do wish there was an epilogue. If a story ever needed one it was this one.
I love that this author stayed trute to history but didn't need to use all historical language to get the point across. This book is set in the middle of the Civil War. We know why the states were fighting and we also know about slavery. No N word was used in this book but was substituted with 'darkie'. I really really appreciate the author for this. Historical books feel the need to often remain accurate to history but they literally hold this power to substitute words.
I didn't need to read it to know what was meant. Brilliantly done by the author. Consequently, this was my first book by this author but it most definitely won't be my last
First let me say wow. This book will stay with me for a long while. It was magnificent and I loved it. I do wish there was an epilogue. If a story ever needed one it was this one.
I love that this author stayed trute to history but didn't need to use all historical language to get the point across. This book is set in the middle of the Civil War. We know why the states were fighting and we also know about slavery. No N word was used in this book but was substituted with 'darkie'. I really really appreciate the author for this. Historical books feel the need to often remain accurate to history but they literally hold this power to substitute words.
I didn't need to read it to know what was meant. Brilliantly done by the author. Consequently, this was my first book by this author but it most definitely won't be my last
June 29, 2021
What an interesting and informative read. Especially if you enjoy and appreciate history, specifically the Civil War (Battle of Gettysburg). This read is not so much a romance as it is a cruel reminder of the brutality of war. This historical story was heavy on the battle and light on the romance. Although I kinda understood why, I did not like that a large part of the book the MC's were separated, though, they did interact through letters. I thought the letters were very romantic which warmed my heart.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
December 2, 2021
Friz this was awesome. From the battlefields to the farms I could visualize the story every step of the way. Now I need to go to Gettysburg and see this historic area myself. Thanks for another great book!
May 20, 2021
Well written and researched historical fiction romance set during the Civil War. After her twin brother and parents die in an accident on their farm, Catherine Samson assumes her brothers identity, and fulfills his commitment to serve with the 19th Massachusetts Volunteers. As private Cooper Samson (Coop) is part of many battles including Gettysburg. Coop meets the Sophie Bauer, a member of the Ladies Aid Society, who tends to the needs of wounded soldiers. They correspond for over a year as the war continues and their fondness grows. Sophie isn't aware of Coops secret and the friendship is confusing. She has no plans to marry as she knows she is attracted to women. As the war continues Sophie returns to her family farm in Gettysburg and is there when literally thousands of soldiers battle with her home bombarded from either side.
CF Frizzel delivers an exciting page turning account of several battle skirmishes. She includes the reality that many of the commanders made serious mistakes. I've been to Gettysburg and can envision a wall that Coop was trying to reach or various trees and high grounds on the battlefield. The romance itself is a slow burn but I especially enjoyed the correspondence chapters. They started writing without really knowing if they would ever meet again. The battle of Gettysburg itself takes place over three days and I wish the book was little clearer on timing. There is so much going on in those chapters it felt like it was much longer amount of time.
A quick internet search shows estimates of over 1000 women disguised themselves as men to fight on both sides in the civil war bringing real plausibility to the story. I wish there was an epilogue set after the war but was okay with where the book ends. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
CF Frizzel delivers an exciting page turning account of several battle skirmishes. She includes the reality that many of the commanders made serious mistakes. I've been to Gettysburg and can envision a wall that Coop was trying to reach or various trees and high grounds on the battlefield. The romance itself is a slow burn but I especially enjoyed the correspondence chapters. They started writing without really knowing if they would ever meet again. The battle of Gettysburg itself takes place over three days and I wish the book was little clearer on timing. There is so much going on in those chapters it felt like it was much longer amount of time.
A quick internet search shows estimates of over 1000 women disguised themselves as men to fight on both sides in the civil war bringing real plausibility to the story. I wish there was an epilogue set after the war but was okay with where the book ends. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2021
I absolutely loved this historical fiction from CF Frizzle. Extremely well researched, it feels like a genuine firsthand account. As a Brit I’m not as familiar with the fine detail as many of the readers may be but knowing Cathy frizzles previous work I have absolute confidence in the minutiae of her research.
The main characters are wonderful women that you can’t help rooting for, hoping that they can find a way to come together, survive Gettysburg and flourish in the world which doesn’t recognise their existence.
The whole is well written, well put together, with a gentle but inexorable story arc and a poignant romance from a bygone time. Just an excellent reading experience.
Have loved all this authors books and this is right up there with them. Highly recommended
The main characters are wonderful women that you can’t help rooting for, hoping that they can find a way to come together, survive Gettysburg and flourish in the world which doesn’t recognise their existence.
The whole is well written, well put together, with a gentle but inexorable story arc and a poignant romance from a bygone time. Just an excellent reading experience.
Have loved all this authors books and this is right up there with them. Highly recommended
May 27, 2021
Measure of Devotion is a historical romance, set in the American Civil War, featuring a lesbian love story. The main positive for me in this book was the character development. The main characters, especially Coop, were charismatic and you wanted to know more about them and their story. Even the more minor characters, like Coop's best friend Tim, were developed characters, not just plot devices or empty suits. I rooted for the characters throughout.
Unfortunately, for me, the setting is what ultimately killed the book for me. It was well-researched and did a good job of describing the horrors of battles of the Civil War, including the deaths. Honestly, it was much too good a description for me. If that isn't a problem for you, you'll love this book.
Unfortunately, for me, the setting is what ultimately killed the book for me. It was well-researched and did a good job of describing the horrors of battles of the Civil War, including the deaths. Honestly, it was much too good a description for me. If that isn't a problem for you, you'll love this book.
March 11, 2024
Excellent
About two women who meet during the American civil war. One a volunteer to help reduce the horrors the men experienced. The other, a private in the Union army.
This book is not for the faint hearted. Lots of details of battles and injuries. The suffering and heart ache. The realisation that this was divided families. Brother against brother. Father against son.
It always amazes me the lengths we go to hurt each other.
But through all this two people find love and hope.
There is devastating evidence to land, people and animals.
But love finds a way.
This is a story of two women who find each other and love prevails.
Enjoy!
About two women who meet during the American civil war. One a volunteer to help reduce the horrors the men experienced. The other, a private in the Union army.
This book is not for the faint hearted. Lots of details of battles and injuries. The suffering and heart ache. The realisation that this was divided families. Brother against brother. Father against son.
It always amazes me the lengths we go to hurt each other.
But through all this two people find love and hope.
There is devastating evidence to land, people and animals.
But love finds a way.
This is a story of two women who find each other and love prevails.
Enjoy!
June 23, 2021
Wow, I am blown away by this book. Excellent, well written, historically very well documented.
It reminds me of a book by a French author about a woman posing as a man in the australia outback.
In French: Willowra
In English at BSB the October 1, 2021: https://www.boldstrokesbooks.com/book...
Another wow!
It reminds me of a book by a French author about a woman posing as a man in the australia outback.
In French: Willowra
In English at BSB the October 1, 2021: https://www.boldstrokesbooks.com/book...
Another wow!
July 30, 2021
I had a strange upbringing: For a time, I lived next to a Civil War Battleground, I hunted for Minie balls and climbed around on Napoleon howitzers. I played “Gettysburg” when forced by my elder brother. It was a board game akin to Risk meets D&D, I was always the South and to my brother’s chagrin, I mostly won (the key was to take Little Round Top). I can argue about the urban legend of horse-positioning in Civil War Monuments or Shelby Foote’s role in the “Lost Cause” mythology. So, what I’m saying is, I have I working knowledge of the subject of the American Civil War.
I finished CF Frizzell’s Measure of Devotion and I was stunned. I read it again two days later and was even more impressed. Using a phrase from Lincoln as a title was ambitious and that was just the start of one of the best Civil War fiction pieces I’ve ever read. It is right up there with An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge by Ambrose Bierce and that was made into a ‘Twilight Zone’ and an Oscar-winning movie. This book was well-researched and included a history lesson, but the most incredible part was the feelings it evoked. I could smell the gun powder, I could hear the cries, I could feel the fear, and mourn the lost.
Frankly, I would have liked this book without the gender-bending love story, but Coop and Sophie’s story was the icing on the cake. It was almost too tender, if such a thing were possible. I appreciated that Coop was a front-line soldier and not a dashing officer and that Sophie was a member of the Ladies Aid Society but not a debutante. I got to feel what it must have been like to the ordinary folk trying to do their best to survive during the devastation of war. The supporting characters were fully fleshed out and contributed to the plot. Once again, the word ‘tender’ comes to mind when I think of Coop’s relationship with Tim and Karl and Greta were perfectly bratty younger siblings.
I could not have loved this book more, unless it came with one of Karl’s biscuits.
I finished CF Frizzell’s Measure of Devotion and I was stunned. I read it again two days later and was even more impressed. Using a phrase from Lincoln as a title was ambitious and that was just the start of one of the best Civil War fiction pieces I’ve ever read. It is right up there with An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge by Ambrose Bierce and that was made into a ‘Twilight Zone’ and an Oscar-winning movie. This book was well-researched and included a history lesson, but the most incredible part was the feelings it evoked. I could smell the gun powder, I could hear the cries, I could feel the fear, and mourn the lost.
Frankly, I would have liked this book without the gender-bending love story, but Coop and Sophie’s story was the icing on the cake. It was almost too tender, if such a thing were possible. I appreciated that Coop was a front-line soldier and not a dashing officer and that Sophie was a member of the Ladies Aid Society but not a debutante. I got to feel what it must have been like to the ordinary folk trying to do their best to survive during the devastation of war. The supporting characters were fully fleshed out and contributed to the plot. Once again, the word ‘tender’ comes to mind when I think of Coop’s relationship with Tim and Karl and Greta were perfectly bratty younger siblings.
I could not have loved this book more, unless it came with one of Karl’s biscuits.
May 17, 2022
This book, my God, has been the best historic book I've read. The sole purpose of this book was clear from the beginning, to honor the people who fought and survived the Battle of Gettysburg.
This book not only honored that, but it also honored the women who went into battle cross-dressed so they could also fight for their country and the freedom of equality.
This was such a well-written book, which invoked in me many feelings and emotions. I don't really know about all the details regarding the American Civil War, but this book was very informative, and made me want to know more.
I felt emotionally invested in all the characters, whether they were the main characters or side.
And I weeped like a child when Tim and Sophie's father died. Tim's last words to Cooper (Catherine) made me feel a heartache that I've rarely felt.
War is never a pretty thing, and both the sides lose more than they gain. But there is a saying, "If you never stand up for anything, you stoop low for everything." This book reminded me of this saying.
What a wonderful read. I am so grateful to the author for writing such a detailed and sentimental book. Thank you so much.
This book not only honored that, but it also honored the women who went into battle cross-dressed so they could also fight for their country and the freedom of equality.
This was such a well-written book, which invoked in me many feelings and emotions. I don't really know about all the details regarding the American Civil War, but this book was very informative, and made me want to know more.
I felt emotionally invested in all the characters, whether they were the main characters or side.
And I weeped like a child when Tim and Sophie's father died. Tim's last words to Cooper (Catherine) made me feel a heartache that I've rarely felt.
War is never a pretty thing, and both the sides lose more than they gain. But there is a saying, "If you never stand up for anything, you stoop low for everything." This book reminded me of this saying.
What a wonderful read. I am so grateful to the author for writing such a detailed and sentimental book. Thank you so much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2021
This is a historical novel set in the time of the Civil War. Most of the book takes place during the Battle of Gettysburg with the weeks leading up to the battle used to introduce the characters. The story gives you a sense of the how horrific war can be.
The two main characters in this book are Catherine “Coop” Samson and Sophie Bauer. After Catherine’s family dies in an accident, she takes on her brother Cooper’s identity and enlists in the Massachusetts’ Militia to fight for the Union during the Civil War. Sophie volunteers as an aid for the ladies�� auxiliary unit. It is through this service that she meets Coop.
Sophie knows that she is attracted to women but does not believe she will ever find love since she has family obligations. Sophie’s mother passed away years ago, and she has 2 much younger siblings that she is raising. Also, her father needs help running the family farm. Sophie does not understand her attraction to Coop because she has never been attracted to a man. Coop is also drawn to Sophie, but fears that revealing her real identity will get her rejected by Sophie and dishonorably discharged from the militia.
I love historical novels and this one is excellent! I had a hard time putting this book down. Even though I have visited Gettysburg, I learned so much from Measure of Devotion. Several times I fact checked a few details for accuracy. Ms. Frizzell’s research was exceptional. Her writing is smooth and has an excellent pace. The emotions were high with fear of death, injury, and rejection. In addition, the story provides Americans with a reminder of what our forefathers fought for to achieve equality for all.
I have not read many of Ms. Frizzell’s books. After completing this one, I will surely read another of her books in the future. I give this book 5+ stars out of 5.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The two main characters in this book are Catherine “Coop” Samson and Sophie Bauer. After Catherine’s family dies in an accident, she takes on her brother Cooper’s identity and enlists in the Massachusetts’ Militia to fight for the Union during the Civil War. Sophie volunteers as an aid for the ladies�� auxiliary unit. It is through this service that she meets Coop.
Sophie knows that she is attracted to women but does not believe she will ever find love since she has family obligations. Sophie’s mother passed away years ago, and she has 2 much younger siblings that she is raising. Also, her father needs help running the family farm. Sophie does not understand her attraction to Coop because she has never been attracted to a man. Coop is also drawn to Sophie, but fears that revealing her real identity will get her rejected by Sophie and dishonorably discharged from the militia.
I love historical novels and this one is excellent! I had a hard time putting this book down. Even though I have visited Gettysburg, I learned so much from Measure of Devotion. Several times I fact checked a few details for accuracy. Ms. Frizzell’s research was exceptional. Her writing is smooth and has an excellent pace. The emotions were high with fear of death, injury, and rejection. In addition, the story provides Americans with a reminder of what our forefathers fought for to achieve equality for all.
I have not read many of Ms. Frizzell’s books. After completing this one, I will surely read another of her books in the future. I give this book 5+ stars out of 5.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 21, 2021
just want to say that this is probably one of the best books, I have read on our American history so far. The attention to detail is so spot on, and the authors description of what happens on the battlefield was so realistic that I it made you feel like you were right there among the soldiers fighting for the ideal of freedom for all. I loved the idea of a woman soldier as the main character and Coop aka Catherine was an excellent example of what the author was trying for in this book. I loved the romance between Cooper and Sophie they were just right for each other, and the supporting characters just enhanced the story to a whole other level. I look forward to what this author writes next. I definitely would recommend this to my friends and family.
January 11, 2022
Had to collect my thoughts on this one. I love historical themes and this was another exploration into the secession war, but having read sinilar books I set myself low expectations just in case...but this one surprisingly provided me with a wonderful romance..I ached for the damage, desperation and utter brutality of the Gettysburg battle as if I felt what they felt. The tone of the book was so appropriate, slow at first painting the setting, introducing characters, laying foundations but then picked up with the rush of troops for one location to another culminating with the big battle and all along adding such great insights into their romance that one could only hope for the happy end...a remarkable rendering of a great story set in a miserable setting.
October 20, 2025
Hm. This read more like a military historical fiction than a romance, but it was well researched. We get 80% battle scenes and language waxing poetic about good ol’ American values and patriotism, and 20% chaste, quick to attraction (but not unbelievable for the period) romance between a cross dressing Union soldier and a volunteer nurse.
That’s not the ratio I would’ve hoped for. To illustrate the theme and focus of the novel, you should know that the whole book ends with an excerpt of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
That’s not the ratio I would’ve hoped for. To illustrate the theme and focus of the novel, you should know that the whole book ends with an excerpt of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
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