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Forts of Refuge #1
Sarah's Choice
2022 Selah Award Winner for Historical Romance
Sarah Feight has her life planned with a loving husband, a promising new settlement, and big dreams to shape the future of trade on Pennsylvania’s frontier. An Indian attack at dawn changes everything.
When he pulls his freight wagons into Fort Pitt, Leith McCully never dreams he’ll be conscripted into the militia and ordered to defend the fort. Worried about trader friends on his delivery route, he rides to their settlement and returns with Sarah, the only survivor.
Fort Pitt is crowded to twice its capacity with the settlers who have taken refuge there and surrounded by the rising smoke of burned-out settlements. Tempers flare, disease breaks out, and the constant fear of the next attack has everyone on edge.
Cully keeps an eye on Sarah because he feels responsible for her. And, though he doesn’t admit as much, she tugs at his heart. Sarah sees Cully as the last link to her past. A friend of her husband’s family. She’s going to need someone she can trust, and she trusts Cully. Her rescuer.
Are trust and admiration enough to help them survive the siege and its devastating consequences? Is there any hope for a future beyond?
Sarah Feight has her life planned with a loving husband, a promising new settlement, and big dreams to shape the future of trade on Pennsylvania’s frontier. An Indian attack at dawn changes everything.
When he pulls his freight wagons into Fort Pitt, Leith McCully never dreams he’ll be conscripted into the militia and ordered to defend the fort. Worried about trader friends on his delivery route, he rides to their settlement and returns with Sarah, the only survivor.
Fort Pitt is crowded to twice its capacity with the settlers who have taken refuge there and surrounded by the rising smoke of burned-out settlements. Tempers flare, disease breaks out, and the constant fear of the next attack has everyone on edge.
Cully keeps an eye on Sarah because he feels responsible for her. And, though he doesn’t admit as much, she tugs at his heart. Sarah sees Cully as the last link to her past. A friend of her husband’s family. She’s going to need someone she can trust, and she trusts Cully. Her rescuer.
Are trust and admiration enough to help them survive the siege and its devastating consequences? Is there any hope for a future beyond?
108 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 3, 2021
415 people are currently reading
757 people want to read
About the author
Pegg Thomas
28 books620 followersPegg Thomas lives in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with Michael, her husband of *mumble* years. She creates American stories with real history and fictional characters inspired by her ancestors who immigrated here in the early 1600s.
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April 23, 2021The French and Indian War may be over, but on the Pennsylvania frontier, battles still rage in settlements, at forts, and in a young widow’s heart. Based on historical accounts of Pontiac’s Rebellion, author Pegg Thomas provides an unflinching look at the harrowing realities of the era. In the aftermath of tragedy, one woman’s fight for both courage and forgiveness proves a timeless theme sure to resonate. Fans of Laura Frantz and Lori Benton should not miss this colonial story rich in detail and emotion.
May 6, 2021
I love that Goodreads lets authors review their own books. It gives me a chance to share a bit about the book and why I wrote it. Sarah's story came to me all in one piece. (For the record, that's never happened before or since.) At first, I didn't know the setting, only her story. I just knew it happened on the frontier.
Because I'd recently researched Pontiac's Rebellion for a novella, it was fresh in my mind. It was a harsh, even brutal event in American history, and I knew it would provide the backdrop that Sarah's story needed. Sarah's Choice does not present all sides of the conflict, instead, it is seen only through the eyes of Sarah and Cully.
I hope to give the reader a glimpse of what happened in a time and place that was incredibly volatile from the perspective of the people caught up it in unawares. It was not my intent to interject 21st-century norms or ideals into the 18th century. It does no good to look at history through the modern lens. What happened, happened. It's history to be learned from, warts and all.
But most of all, this is a story of ordinary people, caught up in an extraordinary time, and how they overcome in spite of everything. At its heart, it's a story of life and hope.
Because I'd recently researched Pontiac's Rebellion for a novella, it was fresh in my mind. It was a harsh, even brutal event in American history, and I knew it would provide the backdrop that Sarah's story needed. Sarah's Choice does not present all sides of the conflict, instead, it is seen only through the eyes of Sarah and Cully.
I hope to give the reader a glimpse of what happened in a time and place that was incredibly volatile from the perspective of the people caught up it in unawares. It was not my intent to interject 21st-century norms or ideals into the 18th century. It does no good to look at history through the modern lens. What happened, happened. It's history to be learned from, warts and all.
But most of all, this is a story of ordinary people, caught up in an extraordinary time, and how they overcome in spite of everything. At its heart, it's a story of life and hope.
June 2, 2021
Frontier fiction fans rejoice! Here’s a novel that doesn’t smooth history’s ragged edges with a 21st century file. I was totally immersed in this dramatic, heart-pounding world of life at Fort Pitt while under siege during Pontiac’s Rebellion—a brief period just when the French and Indian War ends that is seldom touched on nowadays, and probably largely forgotten by many modern readers. Pegg Thomas will take you back to that rugged wilderness in the story of Sarah Feight, a woman whose hopes and dreams are shattered in terrifying moments, and whose future is faced with shadows and decision almost unfathomable in the making. Lovers of a richly developed romance will enjoy the gentle healing story that follows. They will admire the character and strength of the hero, Leith McCully, as well as the cast of characters who people the fort. Pegg Thomas’s depth of research is evident in her portrayal of the period, the setting, and all the many historical tidbits that occurred during those bold and tragic days, despite which bring about a bright and hopeful ending that is satisfying and sumptuous in the telling. Don’t miss it!
April 10, 2022
Sarah's Choice was a captivating novel that had me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. Sarah's life at the beginning of the story seemed ideal as she was thrilled to be starting out life on the frontier with her new husband and they were very much in love. Yet, tragedy soon struck and Sarah endured hardship after hardship.
I liked Cully so much and loved seeing how he always looked out for Sarah and tried to help her out as much as he could. Watching as his feelings grew for her and seeing the patience he had for her was so sweet and spoke to the kind of person he was. I loved the way he would tell Sarah, "You have nothing to fear from me."
This was a slow building romance that made me really feel as if I was transported back to this dangerous time period.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I liked Cully so much and loved seeing how he always looked out for Sarah and tried to help her out as much as he could. Watching as his feelings grew for her and seeing the patience he had for her was so sweet and spoke to the kind of person he was. I loved the way he would tell Sarah, "You have nothing to fear from me."
This was a slow building romance that made me really feel as if I was transported back to this dangerous time period.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 29, 2021
I adored this novel. The intriguing storyline had plenty of twisty turns and lots of, “Well, I didn’t see that coming,” moments—something you don’t run into very often in the world of predictable plots. The author’s settings were superb; her characters well developed. I especially like the multi-layers of Sarah’s personality. Her struggles were clearly shown with gut-wrenching emotion, admirable courage, and tenacity. Sarah’s strong pioneer spirit came through clearly as she persevered through trials in a way that won my admiration: she was easy to root for. The author wove the storyline in such a way that had me swiping quickly to see what happened next. Plot, setting, characters—this one has it all. Five stars and deserving of a dozen more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
December 4, 2021
Western Pennsylvania 1763
The feel of the time period comes alive in the pages of this first in the series. It was a time of conflict. Conflict between the French and English settlers, Native Americans and European immigrants, etc. as inhabitants of the area worked to survive sometimes harsh conditions.
Sarah faces a number of difficult choices. She shows strength, heart and imperfection.
Canine Ruffy was a fabulous part of the novel. I look forward to continuing the series.
The feel of the time period comes alive in the pages of this first in the series. It was a time of conflict. Conflict between the French and English settlers, Native Americans and European immigrants, etc. as inhabitants of the area worked to survive sometimes harsh conditions.
Sarah faces a number of difficult choices. She shows strength, heart and imperfection.
Canine Ruffy was a fabulous part of the novel. I look forward to continuing the series.
June 11, 2021
As with all of Pegg Thomas's books, I not only thoroughly enjoyed the story, but I learned a bit of history along the way. Emotionally gripping--an excellent read.
October 20, 2021
This is a beautiful tender love story. Early American history is fascinating. The writing is very well done. The characters are perfectly developed! I enjoyed it very much and will be recommending it to my reader friends.
June 2, 2021
Pegg Thomas never ceases to amaze me with the depth of research she does before writing her tales. Her love of the Colonial time period is obvious. This is her best work so far. Set during the early expansion of America in the rough, untamed wilderness she weaves a love story in the midst of Indian attacks on settlers. Americans are still British citizens and smallpox is a genuine threat. There are twists in this plot I did not expect. The emotional depth is so believable. The character of Sarah is not a modern woman set in a historical setting but a strong pioneer woman doing what she must to survive in a harsh environment. An Cully couldn’t be a better hero for Sarah. I loved them so much. When the next installment comes out, I’ll be one of the first to grab a copy.
May 26, 2021
Such a blend of History and Romance - woven to tell a story so very RICH in both. It has been a long time since I've had the opportunity to read a long novel for pleasure. Sarah's Choice literally enthralled me. I was so absorbed, I ignored my dog when she told me she had to go out... evidently several times. I did NOT want to put the book down to fix a meal... could hardly wait to finish the meal with my husband to get back to the novel.
Sarah had my sympathy from the get-go. Such a strong character... such a tender heart to have to carry such a burden.
Cully? Wow! What a REAL man! A true hero.
One of the things I liked best in this novel - Ms. Thomas' use of the five senses - sights, sounds, smells, touches, tastes ( of both the good and the bad) SO VERY REAL!
I had no problem visualizing the area... where everything took place, either. Secondary characters were so very realistic and each had a story of their own... I'd have loved to learned more about.
This book is one for my KEEPER SHELVES! A book I HIGHLY recommend!
Sarah had my sympathy from the get-go. Such a strong character... such a tender heart to have to carry such a burden.
Cully? Wow! What a REAL man! A true hero.
One of the things I liked best in this novel - Ms. Thomas' use of the five senses - sights, sounds, smells, touches, tastes ( of both the good and the bad) SO VERY REAL!
I had no problem visualizing the area... where everything took place, either. Secondary characters were so very realistic and each had a story of their own... I'd have loved to learned more about.
This book is one for my KEEPER SHELVES! A book I HIGHLY recommend!
June 11, 2021
Sarah Feight is the lone survivor of an Indian attack in western Pennsylvania in 1763. She was brutally attacked and left for dead, having lost the love of her life. A Fort Pitt teamster rescues her and carries her to the safety of the nearby fort.
First off, I cannot even begin to imagine how difficult day to day life was back in that day. One would constantly be looking behind their backs, fearful of an Indian attack. The fort held many people, but they needed food and ammunition, which required a foray outside of the wooden fort walls where they could be ambushed. The walls were wooden and burning arrows often did severe damage. I really admire our pioneers in the early years of the US, but I can see that those early years were incredibly difficult.
I had a hard time putting this down and was drawn back into the late 1700's and the constant battle for survival. The characters were wonderfully written and it was easy to appreciate the various personalities that were often ensconced within the walled wooden fort. My favorite character is probably Sarah, as she had lost so much but also had much to gain if only her heart could make the right choices.
If you enjoy reading Lori Benton or even Laura Frantz, I think that you will enjoy this author's work. She doesn't mind tackling the gritty things in life but does it in a very gracious way. I have read and enjoyed some of her novellas, but this full length novel is incredibly good. I will definitely be looking at her backlist.
I received an e-file copy of this book from the author and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
First off, I cannot even begin to imagine how difficult day to day life was back in that day. One would constantly be looking behind their backs, fearful of an Indian attack. The fort held many people, but they needed food and ammunition, which required a foray outside of the wooden fort walls where they could be ambushed. The walls were wooden and burning arrows often did severe damage. I really admire our pioneers in the early years of the US, but I can see that those early years were incredibly difficult.
I had a hard time putting this down and was drawn back into the late 1700's and the constant battle for survival. The characters were wonderfully written and it was easy to appreciate the various personalities that were often ensconced within the walled wooden fort. My favorite character is probably Sarah, as she had lost so much but also had much to gain if only her heart could make the right choices.
If you enjoy reading Lori Benton or even Laura Frantz, I think that you will enjoy this author's work. She doesn't mind tackling the gritty things in life but does it in a very gracious way. I have read and enjoyed some of her novellas, but this full length novel is incredibly good. I will definitely be looking at her backlist.
I received an e-file copy of this book from the author and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
June 16, 2021
This is a gritty historical novel that makes readers appreciate current American comforts while marveling at the struggles and fortitude of their ancestors. Thomas’s characters are fictional, but factual events are woven into the narrative. Not only is this story brilliantly researched, it’s also emotionally-charged and thought-provoking.
June 14, 2021
Excellent book! I was hooked from the first page and loved following along on Sarah & Cully's journey on the frontier. Pegg Thomas brought history to life with captivating characters and a beautiful story that was heartwrenching at times, but also overflowing with hope and triumph. Highly recommend!
June 14, 2021
Sarah's Choice is a gripping novel that stays with you long after you close the book. Pegg Thomas weaves fiction into real historical events beautifully, and I always learn something when I read her books. This story not only touches the heart but it touches upon the choices women face, not only today but generations ago. This book is raw, yet tastefully written, and a fantastic read.
May 25, 2021
My author friend, Pegg Thomas who also keeps sheep has graciously allowed me to read and share her newest novel and boy, was it good!
Not surprising, considering she’s an award winning author and knows how to weave a story, not just spin real yarn. That’s right, Pegg spins sheep’s fleece into yarn and creates art that some of her readers are blessed to receive. She makes a beautiful shawl with each of her new book releases. Check out her newsletter, she’s a fascinating woman and a fabulous writer.
Sarah’s Choice is an emotional story that pulled me into the pages of the book and maybe it was my hormones (I doubt it) but I did shed a few tears and fall in love with Cully. If only more men were like Cully!
Sarah is a young newlywed in 1776. The French and Indian war is over but the frontier in Pennsylvania is still fighting for land. The battles in the settlements, forts, and villages make life dangerous and brutal. She endures a harrowing and brutal event that, while horrible to consider, was a hard reality for many young women who lived in her time.
Sarah’s Choice is based on historical accounts on Pontiac’s Rebellion. The detail Pegg weaves in this gripping story is rich and allowed this reader to experience the dangers, tragedies, triumphs, harsh reality and sacrificial love from the safety of my sofa. With a cup of tea, something Sarah missed and I thought of her as I sipped. You see, the characters are well-written and became real to me while I read. That’s good story crafting.
Sarah’s losses are so harrowing, her experiences so brutal, her bravery so inspiring, that you absolutely root for her healing and happily ever after.
Cully is a quiet, strong hero, who, with wisdom and hard work, manages to make a home with his bare hands for a group of vulnerable women who band together in adversity to become a family. Cully has choices to make, too. He’s a man with integrity and honor, just the kind I like to read about.
If you’re a historical fiction/romance fan, you’ll love Sarah’s choice.
Not surprising, considering she’s an award winning author and knows how to weave a story, not just spin real yarn. That’s right, Pegg spins sheep’s fleece into yarn and creates art that some of her readers are blessed to receive. She makes a beautiful shawl with each of her new book releases. Check out her newsletter, she’s a fascinating woman and a fabulous writer.
Sarah’s Choice is an emotional story that pulled me into the pages of the book and maybe it was my hormones (I doubt it) but I did shed a few tears and fall in love with Cully. If only more men were like Cully!
Sarah is a young newlywed in 1776. The French and Indian war is over but the frontier in Pennsylvania is still fighting for land. The battles in the settlements, forts, and villages make life dangerous and brutal. She endures a harrowing and brutal event that, while horrible to consider, was a hard reality for many young women who lived in her time.
Sarah’s Choice is based on historical accounts on Pontiac’s Rebellion. The detail Pegg weaves in this gripping story is rich and allowed this reader to experience the dangers, tragedies, triumphs, harsh reality and sacrificial love from the safety of my sofa. With a cup of tea, something Sarah missed and I thought of her as I sipped. You see, the characters are well-written and became real to me while I read. That’s good story crafting.
Sarah’s losses are so harrowing, her experiences so brutal, her bravery so inspiring, that you absolutely root for her healing and happily ever after.
Cully is a quiet, strong hero, who, with wisdom and hard work, manages to make a home with his bare hands for a group of vulnerable women who band together in adversity to become a family. Cully has choices to make, too. He’s a man with integrity and honor, just the kind I like to read about.
If you’re a historical fiction/romance fan, you’ll love Sarah’s choice.
June 12, 2021
Inspired by actual events, Sarah's Choice reveals a gritty look at life in Western PA in 1763. The novel held my attention from start to finish with complex characters, perfect pacing, an engrossing plot, and masterful storytelling. Sarah's Choice is my favorite read this year, and I doubt I'll ever forget Sarah and her life-altering choice. I received a copy of the book from the author but wasn't required to leave a favorable review.
June 16, 2021
You never know what you're going to get with a Pegg Thomas book. Just when you think you're able to put the types of books she writes in a nice little box, she comes out with another one that completely shatters that thought. Sarah's Choice is no exception. Relatable characters. Intriguing plot. Great storytelling. Highly recommended.
January 19, 2022
I've really struggled over this rating and would have given 3.5 if that was an option. Overall, I enjoyed the story. However, I'm deducting one star right from the start because though it was billeted as CF, it lacked a portrayal of anyone following Jesus or being motivated by their relationship with Him. My second struggle was the depiction of the villain. He was a cardboard reflection of the view many 18th century settlers held toward Native Americans who resisted westward expansion, denigrating the entire people group. Certain acts of warfare (no spoilers!) were typical throughout the globe prior to the influence of the gospel, but my research into Native Americans negates the underlying motives for some that are described. That does not mean the book's inclusion of them is inaccurate. Tribes diverged vastly, but I raised an internal eyebrow several times. Sadly, the one positive Native American characterization was of a girl whose mother was English, which underscored rather than mitigated the stereotype.
July 21, 2021
Life was very difficult for all parties on the frontier. This story of horrific loss, and second chances will stay with me for a long time to come.
Author Pegg Thomas paints a vivid picture of life on the frontier, with her memorable characters, and beautiful storytelling, she pens a powerful and unforgettable story.
Fans of historical fiction will love this Sarah's Choice, I know I did! I highly recommend Sarah's Choice!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
Author Pegg Thomas paints a vivid picture of life on the frontier, with her memorable characters, and beautiful storytelling, she pens a powerful and unforgettable story.
Fans of historical fiction will love this Sarah's Choice, I know I did! I highly recommend Sarah's Choice!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2024
Има разлика между храбростта и необходимостта.“
/ Pegg Thomas
Няма по - голямо удоволствие от това в последния ден на септември да завърша книга от любим автор! Навън есента напомня за себе си, вятърът хвърля дъждовните капки срещу прозореца, а листата се отронват като в танц. При мен е спокойна вечер с дъх на канела и толкова есенно настроение, колкото да запълни сетивата ми. Затварям кориците на третата книга от историческата поредица на Pegg Thomas за живота на заселниците в пограничните райони на Пенсилвания. Sarah's Choice прекарва читателя през ужаса на индианско нападение над белите жители и съдбата на оцелелите. По онова време животът на всички е бил на ръба във всеки един момент. Индианските племена, освободили се наскоро от присъствието на французите след Френско - индианската война, се сдобиват с британците на тяхната земя. Вождът Отава решава да обедини племена, които до скоро са били враждебни едни спрямо други, за да ги поведе в битка с британските заселници и войници. Всички знаем как завършват тези войни за разчистване на принадлежащити им от векове земи. Но жертвите са много. И от двете страни. А последиците са глад, болести, загубени човешки животи и наслоена омраза, смесена със страх.
Pegg Thomas описва съдбата на една жена, преживяла загуби и болка. На прага на шанса си за нов живот, тя трябва да живее месеци наред в страх и омраза. И впоследствие е изправена пред избор. Сърцето на една майка може да понесе много и да предложи още повече!
Всеки път, когато чета книга на Pegg Thomas, се чувствам там. На пограничните райони, между облагородяващите районите фортове и гъстите гори и прерии, населявани от индианци. Едновременно с четенето на художествената измислица до себе си държах книгата на James Adair The History of the American Indians. Това е хроника на един изследовател и търговец, живял години сред индианските племена и добре запознат с ритуалите, традициите и природата им. Помагайки си с неговите статии, по - добре осмислих поведението на героите на Pegg Thomas. Беше ми много интересно! Както винаги, когато се потопя в света на историческото минало на света!
/ Pegg Thomas
Няма по - голямо удоволствие от това в последния ден на септември да завърша книга от любим автор! Навън есента напомня за себе си, вятърът хвърля дъждовните капки срещу прозореца, а листата се отронват като в танц. При мен е спокойна вечер с дъх на канела и толкова есенно настроение, колкото да запълни сетивата ми. Затварям кориците на третата книга от историческата поредица на Pegg Thomas за живота на заселниците в пограничните райони на Пенсилвания. Sarah's Choice прекарва читателя през ужаса на индианско нападение над белите жители и съдбата на оцелелите. По онова време животът на всички е бил на ръба във всеки един момент. Индианските племена, освободили се наскоро от присъствието на французите след Френско - индианската война, се сдобиват с британците на тяхната земя. Вождът Отава решава да обедини племена, които до скоро са били враждебни едни спрямо други, за да ги поведе в битка с британските заселници и войници. Всички знаем как завършват тези войни за разчистване на принадлежащити им от векове земи. Но жертвите са много. И от двете страни. А последиците са глад, болести, загубени човешки животи и наслоена омраза, смесена със страх.
Pegg Thomas описва съдбата на една жена, преживяла загуби и болка. На прага на шанса си за нов живот, тя трябва да живее месеци наред в страх и омраза. И впоследствие е изправена пред избор. Сърцето на една майка може да понесе много и да предложи още повече!
Всеки път, когато чета книга на Pegg Thomas, се чувствам там. На пограничните райони, между облагородяващите районите фортове и гъстите гори и прерии, населявани от индианци. Едновременно с четенето на художествената измислица до себе си държах книгата на James Adair The History of the American Indians. Това е хроника на един изследовател и търговец, живял години сред индианските племена и добре запознат с ритуалите, традициите и природата им. Помагайки си с неговите статии, по - добре осмислих поведението на героите на Pegg Thomas. Беше ми много интересно! Както винаги, когато се потопя в света на историческото минало на света!
August 9, 2021
If life was a choice, then she’d choose to live. She would overcome the unspeakable horror of that day.
1763 was still a time of strife in Pennsylvania. The British were still trying to force their way into lands that had long been home to the natives. Settlers were moving in establishing small communities usually within a reasonable distance of a fort. Trading posts were starting all over the territory, much like the one that Sarah’s husband and brothers were building. Unfortunately the natives saw this invasion as hostile, causing the various groups to band together. This brought increasing conflict with horrific results.
Surviving one such attack, Sarah’s choice to live brought a number of difficult choices her way. Would hatred rot her from the inside out, or could she choose to heal not only herself but those around her? Do the sins of the father fall on his children? Do we believe George Santayana, philosopher when he states ‘Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it’? The author has done an incredible job of giving the reader a story that requires a great deal of retrospection.
This ARC was received through Spinner of Yarns Publishing. These thoughts and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
1763 was still a time of strife in Pennsylvania. The British were still trying to force their way into lands that had long been home to the natives. Settlers were moving in establishing small communities usually within a reasonable distance of a fort. Trading posts were starting all over the territory, much like the one that Sarah’s husband and brothers were building. Unfortunately the natives saw this invasion as hostile, causing the various groups to band together. This brought increasing conflict with horrific results.
Surviving one such attack, Sarah’s choice to live brought a number of difficult choices her way. Would hatred rot her from the inside out, or could she choose to heal not only herself but those around her? Do the sins of the father fall on his children? Do we believe George Santayana, philosopher when he states ‘Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it’? The author has done an incredible job of giving the reader a story that requires a great deal of retrospection.
This ARC was received through Spinner of Yarns Publishing. These thoughts and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
April 7, 2024
Good historical fiction on the Pennsylvania frontier, Sarah's Choice is a well-written novel that takes place during the 1763 siege of Fort Pitt in what is now the city of Pittsburgh.
November 14, 2021
Wow what a read. A great historical novel. Heartbreaking made more so by its historical accuracy. I’m glad I picked this book up on sale a few days ago. Great read
October 31, 2021
This book is set during my favorite colonial time period out on the frontier near Ft Pitt in present day Pennsylvania. When an Indian attack leaves young, newly married Sarah Feight all alone and wounded in more ways than physical, she finds refuge at Ft Pitt when a friend of the family, Leith McCully, finds her alone and desolate. Sarah's problems become compounded over the weeks as she begins to recover and use her nursing skills during the siege of Ft. Pitt. As she struggles to get back on her feet, she slowly learns to trust Leith McCully. As limited as options are on the frontier, will Sarah have a choice in her future if the Fort survives the siege by the Indians? I very much enjoyed the story and the characters. Great read!
June 21, 2021
I don’t even know how to describe my thoughts on this book! I loved it, but I feel that some people will need the warning that some parts of this story can be brutal. This book takes place during a really harsh time in history. I think that Pegg Thomas did a great job with this story. I really felt for Sarah and what happened to her. I also loved Cully! I really enjoyed this look at life on the frontier. I really look forward to reading more books from Pegg Thomas!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
August 25, 2021
3.5 stars
"If life was a choice . . . . . . ."
There were many days when Sarah Feight wondered why she had survived. Having experienced unspeakable horrors, she was haunted by the memory of losing her beloved husband and extended family in the dead of one night, crushing her idyllic life on Pennsylvania's wild frontier. Sarah's future could have been forever marred, but for the one who had rescued; a freighter named Leith McCully who arrived on the grisly scene, gently prying Sarah's hands away from her husband's lifeless body before carrying Sarah to the relative safety of Fort Pitt. If only that had been the whole of her story.
"If he was reading her right, she was choosing whether or not she wanted to live. What could he say to persuade her?"
Sarah Feight was exactly the kind of woman the frontier needed if she could overcome her debilitating sorrow. Leith McCully would be blind not to notice all of her outward attributes, but it was her strength of character that was even more attractive. Little by little it appeared that the young widow was beginning to trust him, but would it be enough? "The least he could do was to see after (her) welfare . . . he wasn't going to fail her".
This story embodies the essence of love and loss on the American frontier. Filled with real and imaginary characters. its pages boldly declare a tale of admirable tenacity in the face of a rapidly changing American landscape. Sarah faces many, many challenges and a myriad of choices; some of her decisions seem questionable but understandable. Others are nothing short of courageous. Enjoy this peek back in time, when nothing or no one but God himself stayed the same.
"She hadn't imagined anything good rising from the ashes of such a tragedy. How very wrong she'd been."
"If life was a choice . . . . . . ."
There were many days when Sarah Feight wondered why she had survived. Having experienced unspeakable horrors, she was haunted by the memory of losing her beloved husband and extended family in the dead of one night, crushing her idyllic life on Pennsylvania's wild frontier. Sarah's future could have been forever marred, but for the one who had rescued; a freighter named Leith McCully who arrived on the grisly scene, gently prying Sarah's hands away from her husband's lifeless body before carrying Sarah to the relative safety of Fort Pitt. If only that had been the whole of her story.
"If he was reading her right, she was choosing whether or not she wanted to live. What could he say to persuade her?"
Sarah Feight was exactly the kind of woman the frontier needed if she could overcome her debilitating sorrow. Leith McCully would be blind not to notice all of her outward attributes, but it was her strength of character that was even more attractive. Little by little it appeared that the young widow was beginning to trust him, but would it be enough? "The least he could do was to see after (her) welfare . . . he wasn't going to fail her".
This story embodies the essence of love and loss on the American frontier. Filled with real and imaginary characters. its pages boldly declare a tale of admirable tenacity in the face of a rapidly changing American landscape. Sarah faces many, many challenges and a myriad of choices; some of her decisions seem questionable but understandable. Others are nothing short of courageous. Enjoy this peek back in time, when nothing or no one but God himself stayed the same.
"She hadn't imagined anything good rising from the ashes of such a tragedy. How very wrong she'd been."
December 4, 2021
I really enjoyed this book.
This is a well-paced, well-written book about hardships in the frontier of Pennsylvania. Sarah is just starting her life with her husband David when tragedy strikes and she has to make a series of choices. I thought Sarah showed great strength. I was impressed with her character and the way she handled her situations. I enjoyed reading and getting to know the other cast of characters as well: Leith "Cully", Spotted Shell, Martha, Jacob.
I thought the names of some of the rivers were interesting: Monongahela and Youghiogheny Rivers. I did look up names and places on Google maps to give me a more visual appreciation of the setting. I also had to look up the word inoculation because it was unfamiliar to me and learned it's along the same lines as being vaccinated.
This book is based on facts that the author talks about in the "author's notes" at the end of the book. It answered some questions I had while reading.
Rating: PG-13: due to some low graphic content, physical assault, and implied swearing
Language: implied swearing (no words were actually spoken), clean read - an example: "Jacob had released another stream of curses."
Recommend: yes!
This is a well-paced, well-written book about hardships in the frontier of Pennsylvania. Sarah is just starting her life with her husband David when tragedy strikes and she has to make a series of choices. I thought Sarah showed great strength. I was impressed with her character and the way she handled her situations. I enjoyed reading and getting to know the other cast of characters as well: Leith "Cully", Spotted Shell, Martha, Jacob.
I thought the names of some of the rivers were interesting: Monongahela and Youghiogheny Rivers. I did look up names and places on Google maps to give me a more visual appreciation of the setting. I also had to look up the word inoculation because it was unfamiliar to me and learned it's along the same lines as being vaccinated.
This book is based on facts that the author talks about in the "author's notes" at the end of the book. It answered some questions I had while reading.
Rating: PG-13: due to some low graphic content, physical assault, and implied swearing
Language: implied swearing (no words were actually spoken), clean read - an example: "Jacob had released another stream of curses."
Recommend: yes!
March 21, 2022
3.75 rounded up
For some reason, I read the second one in this series first. I did like that one a little better than this one, but this one was still really good! There is more heartbreak and bigger issues surrounding the main characters. ( It is not for younger readers, first an FYI) It is very well written, I felt like I was looking right into the past, living the horrors that many pioneers lived. I did feel though that there was a stark silence in the realm of Faith. I know this isn't a Christian novel, but I do believe people in those times had a strong faith in God and He wasn't even once called upon in prayer... I believe His Grace got many of those people through all those horrid ordeals and that should have been acknowledged. The first half of the book was a little slower, building the story and the characters. The second half was hard to put down. There's a third in the series coming soon, and I'm very much looking forward to reading it!
For some reason, I read the second one in this series first. I did like that one a little better than this one, but this one was still really good! There is more heartbreak and bigger issues surrounding the main characters. ( It is not for younger readers, first an FYI) It is very well written, I felt like I was looking right into the past, living the horrors that many pioneers lived. I did feel though that there was a stark silence in the realm of Faith. I know this isn't a Christian novel, but I do believe people in those times had a strong faith in God and He wasn't even once called upon in prayer... I believe His Grace got many of those people through all those horrid ordeals and that should have been acknowledged. The first half of the book was a little slower, building the story and the characters. The second half was hard to put down. There's a third in the series coming soon, and I'm very much looking forward to reading it!
February 9, 2022
This is an excellent read. I loved the book from beginning to end although there is certainly events not to love in the story. However, it's the story and reality of our country's foundation, the story of a strong woman on the frontier. It's not a book full of foofoo and fluff, but one with real content, yet not at all boring. The author made the history as interesting as the 'story.'
August 12, 2025
This is not light reading. Thomas has written a very accurate, deeply detailed story based on the true story of the siege of Fort Pitt in the early days of the French-Indian War, but it doesn't gloss over the atrocities of war and the effects on the people who suffered through them. There is hope and healing, but there is a lot of heartbreak too.
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