With All My Heart

Discerning God's Best #2

by Heidi Gray McGill

Pete Manning moved to the western frontier in 1860 to avoid the law. Cleared of all wrongdoing, he longs to make his house a home. The one thing missing is the woman he met two years before and never forgot. He knew then that she was the one, but he hadn’t been brave enough to offer her his heart. Now, she and her people have moved on, leaving Pete alone with his regrets.

When Pete’s independent niece shows up unexpectedly, Lizzie’s desire to live outside society’s norms injects new energy and goals into Pete’s predictable life. Instead of simply surviving, performing daily chores, and ingesting barely edible food, Lizzy pushes Pete to make something of his land and himself.

But even when the woman of his dreams returns, love and happiness still seem out of reach.

Despised and rejected by her tribe, Singing Bird flees with her son, seeking shelter in the only place they have ever felt welcomed, appreciated, and protected. But in doing so, she places herself near the one man she has tried to forget. Despite her love for him, she knows he could never forgive her past.

Accepting love after rejection is a journey of its own.

“Through the twists and turns of this remarkable journey of faith, you’ll realize how alike we all are in our resistance to accept needed change, even when it leads to a better life.” – Amazon Reviewer.

Genres: Christian, Historical, Fiction, Audiobook, Historical Romance, Christian Romance

247 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2021

About the author

Selah Award finalist Heidi Gray McGill writes award-winning Christian fiction that draws readers into stories of hope, grace, and redemption. Her Discerning God’s Best series brings the American frontier to life with historical richness and biblical truth, while her contemporary novels explore modern struggles with the same heartfelt honesty. Blindness has not limited Heidi’s vision but refined her focus, shaping the way she writes about resilience and faith. She lives near Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband of more than thirty years and treasures her role as Grammie to three energetic grandsons. Connect with Heidi and receive a free prequel at HeidiGrayMcGill.com.

Reviews

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

With All My Heart is another A+ offering from master storyteller Heidi Gray McGill! Just like Desire of My Heart, the first book in the Discerning God’s Will series, this book touched my heart bringing tears and smiles. It captured my attention from the beginning and kept me invested to the end. Set in Missouri in 1860, the story moves quickly and flows smoothly with vivid descriptions and imagery that bring it to life. The memorable characters are well-developed and endearing. The romance is sweet and tender. Faith flows naturally throughout the story as the characters pray and seek God’s will and purpose for their lives. Sufficient background information is supplied for this book to work as a stand-alone, but I recommend reading Desire of My Heart first to get the full effect of the story and better connect with the characters and just because it is so good.
I won a copy of this book from the author/publisher but am under no obligation to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Heidi Hogan · Rating 5 out of 5]

So enjoy Heidi’s writing!! I appreciate clean historical romance books but Heidi’s books are so much more. She knows exactly how to weave in the Bible, prayer, that is so pivotal to our walk and growth in Christ. The conversations and real-life struggles in her books are situations anyone at anytime in history can identify with in some way. Her books encourage the reader to go to God in honest discussion and prayer.
Can’t wait to read her next book!
Thank you Heidi💞

[Beth Glass · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author reminds me so much of a modern day Janette Oke. I must confess though I found Charlie and Lizzy much more entertaining than Pete and Singing Bird. I was really looking forward to their scenes together more than Pete's and his sweethearts. I 💖LOVE how this book is all about God's purpose and timing for us. I 💖LOVED how adventourus Lizzy and Charlie were, but as they sought out God's plan their ideas changed. They were both still free spirited, but they had a sense of purpose after discovering what God's plan was for them was. It makes you think if you yourself are following His plans for you.
I absolutely recommend this book.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again this author has captured my heart with her love of scripture! This, book 2 of Discerning God’s Best series, is one of the best books I’ve read. God doesn’t look at skin color or outside appearance, but looks at the heart. She could have not done a better job of portraying this. What’s in a name? A lot when you turn your heart, mind and body over to the Creator! I can’t wait to see how this family evolves even more if there is a book 3 (a new name maybe?)

[Monique Kilpatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clinging to every word and waiting for the next page was always a great anticipation when reading Heidi McGills books. Seeing the prairie life through her eyes was very magical. Although they had pain, suffering, laughs, and long days in the fields, there was always love and there was always God in the center. The families that she had living in the small towns were not perfect because none of us are. God showed them how to work together and except each other for who they are and rally around those in need. I truly loved getting to know each character because they came alive in my mind. Every detail down to the meals and and clothing were always so easy to see and feel like you were there because her writing is so smooth. God was in every detail of how the story rolled and how each character went through struggles and finding their way to love with with a spouse or God or even friendships. I loved the how these characters whom I now call friends on pages never gave up on each other and their love for God. I hope you find this book as enjoyable as I did.

[Kimberly Russell]

I really looked forward to the continuing saga of all the folks I met in "Desire of My Heart" and I wasn't disappointed. The author wove in the various story lines in such a manner that it was fresh and exciting- anything but predictable. I especially enjoyed following Lizzie's journey to maturity and seeing her develop into a reformed tomboy while maintaining her spunk. Also, the transformation and struggles of Singing Bird were compelling. I will admit I was a bit disappointed when this one ended. Could there be a number three in the works? I'm hoping so.

[Dorothey Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

With All My Heart

This story was wonderful. I enjoyed it from start to finish. Pete shared his cabin with his niece Lizzy.. Clint shared his cabin with Charlie and Rachel. More and more people were added to this sharing family. just sit back and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.

[Claudette J Newland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good recommend to other. Rated a 5. A book for everyone to read. Good for people that like to read books back in wagon train style reading

[Patti Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second in this series and just as well written as the first. There were a few surprises too!

[Danica Lohmeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent follow-up to the 'Desire of My Heart'! I've been anticipating what might happen next in the lives of those I met in Book 1. My eyes hung on each word and I was able to read faster than normal because it was written so well.

I am inspired to hold steadfast to the promises of my faith. The author connects deeply to the heart, mind, soul, and spirit of each character in this story, which allowed me to as well. The reminder of how fulfilling our life can be, if we will recognize how God's path for each of us is orchestrated in a manner much greater than our own. Examples throughout of these people truly listening for God, in the many ways He 'speaks' to us, is awe-inspiring.

I felt like I would be a welcomed guest in each of their homes; excited to share some coffee, a chat, followed by a hearty meal, and a place to rest. This story emboldens me to be keenly aware of my own daily blessings and provisions and to share with others.

Rich, descriptive words ...
»" ... It was instantaneous, like shattered glass, never to be put back like before."
»"... And the tears she had not yet shed spilled over in abundance."

Another must read! I hope you enjoy your time with this book as much as I did!!

[Alicia Haney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved With All My Heart Book 2 of A Shumard Oak Bend Novel by Heidi Gray McGill. This story is very inspiring and with alot of twists and turns. I loved all of these characters who were all in Book 1 with a couple of new ones als. The characters were very real and very God fearing people. This book also pulls at your heart strings and you are right there in the middle actually feeling what the characters are feeling and even talking to them telling them what they should do. This story helps us understand that we all should be open to accept much needed changes in our lives for our own good. I love how this story helps us see that we all need God and other people and that we should not be too proud and accept other peoples help. Thank you once again Heidi for this Beautiful story. I recommend this book to everyone because it really makes us think how we shouldn't take anyone or anything for granted.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again, Heidi hit this out of the park! We get to read about Pete's and Charlie's story in this book and how Pete has finally surrendered his heart to God. He loves Singing Bird, but she's had so much trial and trauma in her past that she just can't trust him. She loves him, but has a lot of praying and thinking to do before she can learn to trust Pete. Charlie really wants adventure and thinks that means travel, but one day, adventure comes riding up to Pete's place while Charlie is staying there and it's a fun and exasperating thrill ride after that! Oh, how fun to read a clean book that truly describes how we struggle with trusting God to heal our hurts and teach us to love. When will the next book be ready?? I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. These opinions are mine.

[Phyllis Rundell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has once again brought us a story full of faith, love and the emotions and struggles and hardships of every day living in 1860 Missouri and of discovering who one really is and what God's plan is for their lives. This is Charlie and Pete's story. Charlie is now 16 years old and believes he is grown up and a man but has trouble accepting the fact Lizzie might very well be the love of his life. Pete longs for Singing Bird but is unsure if he will ever be able to convince her of his love or God's love. This is a very heartfelt faith filled story. I really enjoyed this story and know you will too.

[Pam C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first book of this series I had to read the next one! I believe you could read this as a stand-alone. Once again the author brings you to life in Missouri during the 1850s, as the characters must choose to trust God or live as they please. The struggles are real, heartfelt, and engaging and represent what life was like in the prairie. The author does a wonderful job of weaving the Word of God and the message of salvation into the story. I highly recommend this series.

[Janice Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING , A TRUE CHRISTIAN WRITER

I felt like i was right there on every page , A true Christian author that shares the gospel and i love how scripture was shared. I couldn't put the book down ,looking forward to more books .

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite in the series so far. I LOVED the way that someone got a new name! I also loved the sense of community and the willing of Clint and Rachel to love people like Jesus. Very well done!!!

[Esther N · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great story! While a sequel, it could safely stand alone I think as the author does tuck little reminders through the text.

The only thing I kept "tripping over" was that I had gotten the impression that Charlie and Lizzy were both about 16, maybe 17. Maturity considerations aside, Lizzy's idea to get married so she can buy her own property wouldn't have worked out because Charlie wouldn't have been old enough to buy land. I know there's a couple years between the first two books, so I must've lost track of Charlie's aging up. I thought he was 13 or so when we first met him in book 1. I'll have to go back and check.

Setting up a double wedding twice in a row feels a little unrealistic, but from a practical standpoint, travel was not as easy then as it is now, and it would make sense to perform all religious ceremonies while you had the minister available.

I really appreciate the spiritual focus Heidi weaves throughout the book. I have very much fallen in love with this author's writing style and characters and I look forward to reading the rest of the series!

[Leann Arave · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the series. I highly recommend reading book one first,it just adds more depth and background. This story revolves primarily around Pete and Charlie and the direction their lives take. The story takes place in the mid 1800s on the American West frontier. It continues to be a beautiful faith promoting, God loving, inspiring story. I am captivated with the characters their love a devotion to each other and to God. Inspiring beautiful story.

[Hannah Barclay · Rating 4 out of 5]

loved the snippets of Charlie and Lizzie in this one

[Grams · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet book with wonderful characters

I chose a five star rating because this book had excellent character development, without errors and gave a glimpse into what life was like living far away from the nearest town. This is one of the best cozy books I've read.

I like for each person to read the book and form their own opinion on rating the book. I will say that I highly recommend this book to everyone. I encourage people to read this book!

[Medenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the story of Pete Manning and Singing Bird along with Lizzie and Charlie’s story. This has become one of my favorite series I have ever read.

[Heidi McGill]

NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR

When writing With All My Heart, I requested help from my readers to locate a period-appropriate recipe. I was thinking of cake or cookies, but Joan Archibald shared her great-great-grandmother’s recipe for Healing Salve, and I knew it had to be a part of the story. This unique recipe, or one like it, was often used in the late 1800s American West.

The history of the recipe

Sarah Roper Dimmick, Joan’s great-great grandmother, lived in Fayette, Utah. Sarah’s parents immigrated from England and then traveled across the United States, pushing and pulling a handcart. Salves and liniments of this time would have been topical preparations generally used to treat common skin, scalp, and hair problems. I can imagine many blisters, splinters, and rashes on that journey. These first-aid ointments were the precursors of today’s products, such as Mentholatum, Bag Balm, and White Cloverine. Did you know Robert Chesebrough’s petroleum jelly recipe under the name Vaseline was patented in 1872?

Ingredients

The recipe calls for a piece of pine tar the size of a walnut, which Joan remembers her grandfather and uncles collecting. Joan also remembers using the salve on a splinter covered by a bandage, and it would draw out the sliver in less than a day.

Instructions

Keeping with family tradition, Joan’s mother taught her to cook on a wood-burning stove, and she knows how difficult it is to make items, especially baked goods, turn out correctly—something Rachel (MC of Desire of my Heart) never mastered.

Rachel and Singing Bird work together in With All My Heart to whip up a batch of this special salve. If you want to know how they used it, read Book Two in my Discerning God’s Best series.

Healing Salve Recipe

¾ cup Lard
¾ cup Mutton Tallow
Sticky pine gum, egg-sized
Beeswax, egg-sized
Pine tar, the size of a walnut
1 tsp allspice
2 Tbsp sugar
1 oz sulfur
3 oz rosin
1 oz borax

Put in a pot in the order given here. Do not stir. Melt together on the back of the stove.

I knew most of the ingredients but had to look up rosin. According to Wikipedia, rosin, or colophony or Greek pitch, is a solid form of resin from pines and other plants, mostly conifers, produced by heating fresh liquid resin to vaporize the volatile liquid terpene components. It is semi-transparent and varies in color from yellow to black.

I always enjoy having readers contribute to my stories, but this recipe made the scene with Singing Bird and Rachel in the kitchen feel real. If you’d like to contribute to one of my stories, please sign up for my monthly newsletter, where you’ll receive a FREE book and opportunities to get behind-the-scenes sneak peeks and insider information. https://heidigraymcgill.com/free_book/

With All My Heart may be purchased in eBook or paperback formats from Amazon using ASIN# B08XWHG6MP.

[Jeannette Harbottle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new name.

Charlie has grown up and is looking for adventure. Pete is regretting his decision to return Singing Bird to her tribe but both really just want to do what pleases God. I love the challenge in these books to listen to God's voice and then to act on it.

[Kelly Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this series!! Been listening online and the narrator brings everyone to life!! Can't wait for #3!!

[Lana Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read Heidi Gray McGill’s first book in this series, Desire of my Heart, I couldn’t wait to read this second installment! It was everything and more than I had hoped for! If you didn’t get to read the first book, this book is a standalone book. I personally would want to go back and read the first one, after I’d finished this one, just because it’s that great of a book! Then, I’d probably go ahead and read this one again! Haha Every page brought back all of the familiar, friendly, marvelous, precious characters: Rachel, Charlie, Thomas, Cecilia, Clint, Pete, Singing Bird, her son, and now we have added characters. They are just as great as the older ones we lost in Book One. There are the new baby, Serafina, Delphina and her baby, the silly Finnegan twins (who are both so in love with Lizzie), who come over with Pete’s beautiful niece, Lizzie, who I would say is the second lead in this book. Oh, my goodness, you’ve got to get this book! I get so excited just trying to remember what all I want to tell you! Lizzie is a sassy, talkative, talented horse-training GIRL, who can outshine the FELLERS! This girl has such dreams-just like her counterpart, Charlie. However, she has to tell Charlie what he’s thinking most of the time! Lol They are both 17 years of age, as the book progresses. And, all of the amazing animals! The horses are so smart and beautiful! I can see them just as if I were standing there with them! The landscape and scenery are so well described. I don’t want to move to Missouri, but it sure looks tempting and beautiful the way Heidi tells of it. Constant change, just as in real life, is what this book is about, and we get to see it all happening, day by day, through the pen and eyes of Ms. McGill’s brilliant imagination! The love of our Savior and the love of family and friends is spelled out on each and every page of this tender hearted book! Even though I am on the review team and was given a copy of the book, I was instructed to give my honest opinion, and folks I would definitely give it 10 stars if that were an option! Please don’t miss out on this glorious heart warming book. I cannot wait for the NEXT installment!! 🙏♥️

[Marbeth Skwarczynski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mimicking the quick settlement of the frontier, the second book of the Shumard Oak Bend series brings in characters thick and fast. Fortunately, all are intriguing with well-developed backstories and clear motivations.

Pete Manning originally moved to the western frontier while running from the law. Now, his name is cleared, and he longs to make his house a home. The one thing he's missing is the woman he met two years before and never forgot. But she and her people, the Arapaho had moved on. He'd missed his chance. When his independent niece shows up unexpectedly, Lizzie's desire to live outside of society's norms injects new energy and goals into Pete's predictable life. Instead of simply surviving, performing daily chores, and ingesting barely edible food, Pete is pushed to make something of his land and his life. He even contemplates seeking Singing Bird, the woman he loves, and offering her his heart.

The story of The Shankles, from book one of the series, continues as they grow their land, their family, and their extended circle of friends. Despite the outside conflicts of racism and sexism, The Shankles make it clear to everyone who crosses their threshold that not only does their family believe the Bible's teaching that we are all of one blood and that all people are made in the image of God, who has no regard of race, they put that belief into practice. With All My Heart is a refreshing anti-racist book set in the antebellum U.S. The interwoven stories of the characters offer a rare glimpse of true Christianity played out on the frontier.

[Regina Bassett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotiontionally charged and a reminder about trusting God during tragic times.

I really enjoyed reading this second book by this author! I loved hearing about the continuing stories of Rachel, Charlie & Pete. I just loved the addition of the strong and feisty Lizzy! She knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid to go for it! It was fascinating to read about the hardships and challenges of homesteading and life in the 1800's. I loved how God worked in their lives and how they matured in their relationships with him even though it was very difficult at times they kept their faith strong. These families are so amazing and hard working and they make time for God every day even when they are both physically & mentally exhausted! A must read! I can't wait for the continued story! Proverbs 3:5-6

[Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is wonderfully written and shows a beautiful transformation of the characters through experiences and growing together. You see the characters grow in their relationships with God and each other as they experience the difficulties of life on the frontier. You will laugh and cry and maybe even feel a tugging on your heart as you read about the convictions they feel. It has lots of adventure and exploration along with romance and family life and nothing inappropriate. You could read this as a standalone, but I would highly recommend starting with book 1 so you can get the full introduction of the characters and enjoy that story as well.
This review was based on a complimentary pre-release copy. I was asked to give my honest opinion and was not compensated for my review.

[Jessica Grewe · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Discerning God’s Best series, With All of My Heart, was a delightful read. This inspirational book did not disappoint. It was a quick read for me because I felt so engaged with the characters and couldn’t wait to see how their stories unfolded. I love historical Christian fiction and this book is exactly that. Scripture is quoted, the path to salvation is explained, and reading about the daily trials the characters faced left me knowing that my Christian walk, even in modern times, is consistent with theirs (highs and lows). I loved the pacing of the book as well, it didn’t drag on. If you enjoy historical Christian fiction I know you will enjoy this book. I would, however, highly recommend reading the books in order.

[Michael Ann Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am really liking this author. I like her deep emotional personalities of her characters. In the first book, Rachel had a lot of emontional problems which she has matured and grown through in this book. I like seeing how Charlie came to be a man and finding his true love. I would have like to see a little more of his and Lizzy's trip moving cattle. It was a pertect ending with Pete and Singing Bird finding each other. I like how McGill brings different races together and hearing their stories. I would have liked to see more of the wedding day expanded. Looking forward to the next book that will probably tell more of their stories.