The Bride Price

Civil War Brides #1

by Tracey Jane Jackson, Piper Davenport (Pen Name)

Is love timeless? Does only one true love exist for each person?Can the course of history be changed in order to save a future generation?Sophie Ford, awaiting a heart transplant, thought she was sleeping in the arms of her beloved husband, Jamie, however, she has woken to find herself in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 1863, without explanation as to how she got there, or where her husband is. She finds refuge with a doctor and his family, but develops a volatile relationship with their neighbor, Richard Madden. His expectations become difficult to ignore, and Sophie must figure out a way to hold off his advances. When a soldier shows up looking identical to Jamie, but not knowing who she is, Sophie decides she must make him remember. Will her love for him help him remember? Will they rediscover their love in the new century, or will Richard threaten their chance to reunite? Will Sophie survive the threat against her life and destiny?

Genres: Romance, Time Travel, Historical Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Civil War

243 pages, Paperback

First published September 26, 2017

Reviews

[Natalie · Rating 1 out of 5]

One star merely for the fact that the book took place during the Civil War and it was a time travel piece. The characters were completely one-dimentional and I couldn't really grab hold of either Sophie or Jamie...as both seemed to have no backstory whatsoever. Richard's character was totally confusing! I could never grasp his point nor why he was even in the book. But, the worst part about the book would have to be the dialogue! It was choppy, unrealistic, and corny. There was very little in terms of plot except they napped and ate a lot. Sophie and Jamie gave up the notion (in fact, I'm not sure they even considered it come to think of it) of ever returning to modern times despite leaving behind dear friends and family. The other characters seemed like nothing more than fillers (Michael, Nona, Christine, etc.) to move the poorly planned plot along. The one thing about time travel books that I don't like is how quickly people seem to accept the fact that they are from the future...as Christine and Andrew seemed to do. No one doubts this or considers it utterly crazy?? Another disappointing aspect to this book would be the lack of overall mention of the war itself (okay, a tiny mention about Gettysburg) and the laughable notion that Sophie would know SO MUCH about the Civil War that SHE would be the "chosen one" to go back and change events...why again? Sigh. This book took me forever to read simply because it annoyed me every time I set out to read. I always have a glimmer of hope that the ending would surprise me but even then it was a total disappointment. Pregnant, okay. Of course she is.

[Tracy · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is literally one of the worst books I have ever read in my life -- and that's saying a lot, because I have a read a good number of terrible books. The author of this book seriously makes Stephenie Meyer look like Shakespeare. Yes, that Stephenie Meyer, the Queen of Awful. Tracey Jane Jackson must have missed 6th grade writing class where you are supposed to learn that every story has 5 parts: introduction, rising action, climax, falling action and resolution. This book has...introduction and resolution. There is no rising action, no climax and no falling action. Hell, there's barely a resolution because NOTHING EVER NEEDS TO BE RESOLVED. It is the most self-indulgent crap I have ever read in my life. None of the characters have any real conflict, there is never any sense of impending danger or doom or...anything, and the whole book is tied up into a neat little bow.

Let me write a non-spoilery summery of this story: Boy loves girl. Boy and girl travel back in time. Boy loves girl. There are about 50 other characters that are totally non-developed, totally unimportant, totally pointless, add nothing to story, and serve no other purpose than to prove how much boy loves girl. Frankly, it's pathetic. The author should be ashamed.


And do not even get me started on the disgusting white privilege glaringly rampant throughout this "novel." I could write my own book -- and believe me, it would be a whole lot better than this garbage.

One last spoiler-y note: Girl finds out she's pregnant (which the reader has guessed eons before the character, since the author has no sense of subtlety) and decides to stay in the Civil War Era. Because it's so quaint, y'all!!!!!!! I mean, all of her children might contract dysentery or polio, and none of her daughters will ever amount to anything other than being housewives, but it's just so dang quaint!!!! Y'all!!!!!!!


GARBAGE.

[Coco.V]

💝 FREE on Amazon today (3/16/2018)!💝

[raciekater]

Not sure about this one yet, It was a free book for Kindle. It's the first in a series. The Bride Price is a time-traveling story which I always struggle with. I lack the imagination to suspend my disbelief on most time-traveling stories but so far it seems good enough that I haven't put it down. The Bride Price reminds me of the romance stories I read in high-school considering I already know where the plot is going and have a good idea of how it will end up but I'm still reading it much to my own surprise. maybe I need a break from the heavier narrative as I'm plowing through this fluff pretty quickly. Currently on Chapter 10 27% in.
UPDATE I rarely give up on a book being so far into it but this story became repetitive (how many times can Sophie be attacked by Richard and saved by Jaime. really? BORING) The main character Sophie has become annoying and I really don't care what happens next at this point. After 64% and 20 chapters I'm on to another (better already!) book

[Linda B.D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bride Price This book was really very good. alsmost gave it a 5. I didn't just because it's so hard when I've read "the best". Don't be put off because it's time travel. A woman goes back in time to the Civil War. I can't say much more, no spoilers! It's really worth the read!! Plus, to it's great advantage, yes, it's a paperback, but not one of those tiny ones. (About 12in tall)Sofie is almost an expert on the Civil War. She does re-inacktments(sp?) in our time. She is wisped away back in time. The isbn number for this size book is 9781453660416. I would get this book. It is a real keeper. The more I think about it- I should have given it a 5!

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first read the summary of this book, I thought to myself, “Okay… how’s this going to work?” Time travel, Civil War battles, spouses reunited in another era… I was fascinated by the concept, but afraid it was all a gimmick. Luckily for me, Tracey Jane Jackson’s first novel in her Cival War Brides series delivers many more punches than just a time portal.

SUMMARY: When Sophie Ford wakes up in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in 1863, leaving behind her life-threatening heart condition and her husband in 2007, her problems are only just beginning. Of course, it’s nice to be healthy again, but there are a lot of questions that need to be answered. How did she get there? Where is her beloved husband Jamie? And how does she get back?

A Civil War aficionado, Sophie takes some comfort in knowing she’s on the winning side of the war, but knows that tough times are coming for the Wades and Simmonds families she’s grown to love and the area in general. She finds refuge with them, fights off the aggressive advances of their neighbor, and holds out hope that Jamie will find her… somehow. Then a soldier shows up looking just like him, with no memory of his life before waking up in 1863. Helping him remember is a challenge, but they get there together.

Without revealing too much or spoiling it for potential readers, Jamie and Sophie’s story is a heart-warming tale of love overcoming challenges and even time. Their bond is strong and, although it is greatly tested in The Bride Price, it will renew your faith that love conquers all.

As far as everything else is concerned, Jackson’s knowledge of her chosen era is impressive. She demonstrates an intricate understanding of the roles of men and women, the clothing of the period, the customs of courting and decency, colloquial speech, and the nitty gritty of the War Between the States. It all provides a colorful and engaging backdrop for this love story, one that is sure to evoke a few little tears from you on occasion.

Read more at Love On the Bookshelf: http://loveonthebookshelf.wordpress.c...

[Desiree reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second of the books and series i have read. Here you got a sick wife who is on her death bed and then the husband is helping her with the medical issue she is waiting for the heart and then she is giving special rub to make her more comfortable.

Well something is wrong she not in her bed were is she the husband is worried that she been taken form her and not being able to say good bye to her.You see my name is Sophia and my husband is Jamie that is what i called him when were together.Now back to me well i am under a tree but were some man is coming to me and pick me up all i have on is my night gown.Well he take me to a house that i see but i pass out again.I come two and then i still do not know where i am at but it look like the Civil War era and it weird i do not know how i got here or why.

Well i am getting better now but i do not have any heart problem you see i am invited to the party's and then the family i am staying with has a daughter who is becoming a friend and then she letting me use her clothes,Now i am tell them about the husband who i love and have his ring but there is the man who thinks he is to be my husband no matter what but i am married and will be true to Jamie.

The lady who is making out fit for me looks familiar but i can put my finger on it until something happen you see the north and the south are fighting and then i am helping in the hospital i think i see Jamie and he was wounded in the battle but how did he get here and why are we here are we to help with the war or what.


I enjoyed the book a lot and i am going to try to get the rest done and blog on them i love the series and wil keep reading yoru book keep up the good workd

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love books that have some time travel in them. The characters in the book are in one place and time and something happens and wham they wake up somewhere else compltely.....

That is what happened with Sophie Ford, she is waiting for a heart transplant and is pretty sick, she is lying on her bed with the love of her life her husband Jamie and the next thing she knows she wakes up and she is in 1863 with a man named Richard, she is right in the middle of the fight between the north and south....

Her husband is transported but when he wakes up, it is in another place completely and he has no idea who he is or that he is married. He doesn't remember anything of the past or anything about the war.
Sophie was obsessed with that time period and knew everything about it, and she still remembers. What heppens when Jamie eventually makes it across her path but has no idea who she is.....

Is she able to convince him he is her husband and what does she do with the man who wants her for his own and will do anything to make sure she becomes his...

I stayed up last night reading this book and finished it today. I loved it. I'm happy to know there are more books coming out in the Civil War Bride Series...

From the back of the book: Sophie Ford thought she was sleeping in the arms of her beloved husband, Jamie. However, she has woken to find herself in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 1863, without explanation as to how she got there, or where her husband is. She rejoices when a soldier, looking identical to Jamie, arrives. Can she break through Jamie's barriers and bring his memory back?

[Cayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a fun read! I thoroughly enjoyed it. Great character development! It starts off in the modern-day setting as Sophie is introduced to us as a weak, helpless, bedridden woman due to her medical condition. Her husband is very devoted to her and loves her so much. You can't help but admire him. I don't want to reveal anything, so I'll just say this: As I continue on in the book, I admire her determination. She's stronger than she looks. The girl has spunk! Definitely worth reading!

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this storyline of Sohpia and her beloved, Jamie. Civil War is the time period that I enjoy reading the most and this story was a little different in the beginning, but I ended up loving it. Thank you Ms. Jackson for your talent and bringing this story to life for me.

[Sharon Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting.

Nice story. Sometime a little long on details that are not necessary to plot. But fun to think about time travel.

[K. Ryner · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*.

[Janejellyroll · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is one of the worst books I've read so far this year. The characters have no depth, the plot is silly (and doesn't even really go anywhere until 80% into the book), and the author doesn't even seem to care that much about the Civil War.

Sophie and Jamie are a present-day married couple. She's very ill and is waiting for a heart transplant when one day she just totally vanishes. She's transported back to 1863 Pennsylvania while Jamie is left in Oregon wondering where she is. He tries to move on, even seeing a grief counselor.

When Sophie wakes up in 1863, her heart is no longer damaged. You might think that waking up suddenly in other era with no assets would be a problem, but Jackson isn't interested in exploring this at all . . . she's found by a local wealthy family and they simply decide she'll live with them for the rest of her life because . . . well, we're never told why. The people that we encounter in 1863 have no motivations or interior life, they're just there to make sure Jackson never has to think about how Sophie will actually survive. A local military trainer, Richard, falls in love with Sophie. In fact, almost everyone falls for Sophie in one way or another and most of the book is everyone praising her, falling in love with her, or simply just wanting to make her life easier.

Sophie is supposed to be a Civil War buff, but she's remarkably incurious about being transported to the era that is supposedly her favorite. We never see her discussing the war in detail, reading a newspaper, or trying to interact with the time in any meaningful way. She volunteers at a military hospital, but only because a new friend of hers spends a lot of time there. She doesn't seem to know anything about 1860s life. She's surprised people expect her to ride sidesaddle, she's astonished when people don't treat her like a 20th century woman, and she's incapable of understanding their standards of proper dress or avoiding using modern slang that confuses her new friends. Eventually Jamie shows up in 1863, but for reasons that are never explained, he doesn't remember who he is. For some reason, he has no memory of his modern life, but he was able to seamlessly integrate into 1860s life (despite the fact that it was Sophie who liked the Civil War and not him) and even jumps right into a role as a heroic Union officer (although his unit never really goes anywhere besides Gettysburg and he's always around to take Sophie on picnics).

Eventually we find out why Sophie and Jamie are in the past and it's ridiculous . . . she was sent back because she's responsible to making sure that another group of modern people -- aligned with the Confederacy -- don't change history so the Union loses the war. How this mysterious group that controls the "time portal" chose Sophie makes no sense. We're told that it is because she knows so much about the war -- but keep in mind that this is a woman who didn't even realize the Battle of Gettysburg was approaching until she overheard some people saying that it looked like the Confederacy was planning to attack there.

You might think that Jamie and Sophie might have some meaningful conversations on how they could help their new friends (or their nation) given her historical knowledge, but no. Sophie has no interests other than riding a horse and sneaking off with Jamie. Oh, she also sings, regularly, to rapturous applause each time (at one point we're told that a group of dying soldiers are mesmerized by her singing and beg her to come back the next day). At about 80%, the author seems to realize that she forgot to have much of a plot so some bad guys show up and presumably the plot is continued in future books.

Even if you can set aside Sophie's ignorance of the era she supposedly loves, the author herself doesn't seem to know much about the era. For example, at one point, a character (not from the future) refers to "Miss America," which didn't even exist until the 1920s. Unless you totally buy into Sophie and Jamie's supposedly great love, there's just nothing here for the reader (and if I had to read "Ten Cow," his stupid nickname for her, one more time, I think I would have thrown my Kindle at the wall).

[Janine · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, theoretically this could be read as stand-alone. However, there is a larger story that is not tied up by the ending. In fact, there are several questions, including no clear reason for why Sophie was brought back in time. She is supposed to be important, and watch out for whoever is brought back in time in the future. The plot was interesting enough to keep me reading, and wanting to see what happens next. Fairly well edited.

Sophie lives in 2017 with her husband, Jamie. Sophie has a heart condition, and is slowly dying. One day, Sophie simply vanishes. One minute she is lying in bed while Jamie steps out to speak to Sophie's sister. The next minute, Jamie steps back in to find an empty bed. While Jamie frantically searches for his wife, Sophie awakens to find herself in a snow, just outside a barn. She is found and brought into the home of Dr. and Mrs. Michael Wade. They care for her, checking her health and providing food, shelter, and clothing appropriate for 1862. Wait, what? Somehow, Sophie has not only found herself outside in the snow, but also on the other side of the country - she started out in Portland, Oregon and is now near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania - but also in another time. Sophie spends several months with the Wade's, missing Jamie and fighting off the advances of the neighbor, Richard Madden. Meanwhile, Jamie is desperate to find his wife until one day he steps into his library and finds himself shot in a field in another time. Fortunately, he had just so happened to have put on his wedding clothes - which just so happened to have been those of a Union lieutenant. (Long story) Anyway, when Jamie wakes up, he doesn't remember who he is. Eventually, Sophie and Jamie cross paths. Sophie recognizes Jamie, but he has no memory of her. Will he remember his wife in time to save her from Richard? Will Sophie and Jamie figure out why they have been brought back in time?

This is interesting enough to look forward to seeing where the plot will go. So many questions remain to be answered - chief among them, why has Sophie ultimately been brought back? The answer seems to be to keep history on track, but how exactly is she supposed to do that? I guess we will have to keep reading to find out. Enjoy.

[E Oygard · Rating 2 out of 5]

Annoying and superficial

I had not realised when I began this book that the ending was unresolved and questions left unanswered. I presume you need to read the next book to discover the answers. I don't like this habit by authors as I think it is a way to make more money from a reader.

I found everything too shallow and repetitive in the story. Too many continual references to going in for meals, popping to the stables to see the horse Samson. Much was sickly sweet, for example the actions of the family members that took Sophie in. Nothing was too much for them to do, providing clothes, ball gowns, when actually she was a ride pain in the neck. Sophie's immediate attitude to Richard Madden was unexplained.

Falling back in time to the horrors of the war between the States was skipped over, trivialized as though it wasn't really happening. Popping down to the Battle of Gettysburg was brushed off in a couple of sentences. No real feelings from a 21st century woman of fear, anguish etc. For her husband. I couldn't help but think of what I would do if I was swept back to such a situation and my reactions would have been totally different.
Her help nursing injured soldiers was dealt with in a trivial manner and had no depth with no real mention of pain anywhere.

The whole story felt superficial with no real talent for conveying the thoughts and actions of the characters in words.

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't normally do time travel books, and I'll only make exceptions for my favorite authors. I adore Ms. Davenport's Cauld Ane series and know that she never lets me down. I was pleasantly surprised! I really liked Sophie and Jamie, and they really just "clicked" with me as a couple. This isn't really a second chance romance, but they are separated for a time and I just loved their reunion. It's hard to say too much without giving everything away!

I don't read a ton of historical romances, but I did think the history portion of this story was done well. It was interesting, felt authentic to the time period, and didn't leave me bored. The setting was also interesting and helped bring me into the story. I was also really impressed with the creativity behind this storyline. It felt fresh and innovative, which is a nice change from reading the same kind of tropes over and over again.

Overall, Sophie and Jamie really made me love this story, but the plot was interesting and different from what I normally read. It also did a good job of setting up book 2, so I will continue on with this series even though it isn't my usual genre! Can't wait to see what comes next!

*I received an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

[Allyson Sherwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can Sophia & Jamie find each other again through time, years of separation? Or will time and space swallow their love whole?

The Bride Price by Piper Davenport was magical and heartwarming. Piper knows just the right amount of words to enthrall you, pull you in and keep you eager for a HEA!

A little hesitant after reading the synopsis, since I am not a fan of time travel novels, however, Piper ensnared me with her mesmerizing characters, enchanting storyline and a romance to warm you for days.

As Sophie slumbers next to her love, Jamie, due to an illness, she awakens to a different year (1862), era, decade. Jamie is no longer beside her and she doesn't understand what has warranted this change. Can she find a way back in the arms of her husband?

A wonderful and different tale of what happens when love is lost, when love is found and what happens when love prevails! Piper Davenport is a great author and I encourage you to reach out and read her work. You won't regret it!

[Anne Seifert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was surprised by how much I liked this book, I couldn't put it down! I like reading time travel books, especially when they take place in a time period that I have enjoyed learning about in the past. I really enjoyed all the characters and I became invested in each character by the end. One of the twists that I liked was that Sophie was sent back in time for a purpose, she had a mission (although she didn't know it in the beginning.

This book takes place during the Civil War. Sophie, who is dying in the present day, suddenly finds herself in the 1860s. She has her memories of her life in the future, including that of her husband. Jamie, who is struggling without the love of his life, finds himself transported back in time too. But he has no memories of his future life, including that of his wife.

I love that this couple was able to get a second chance at their love story, even if it means they have to stay in the past. As they fall in love all over again, they end up forming a new family of friends that have helped them along the way.

One of the things that I really enjoyed about this book was seeing Sophie deal with the changes brought about by being a woman in the 1860s. She is somehow able to maintain some independence and strength that was not seen in women back then. She knows who she is and is determined to not sit on the sidelines.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbreaking beginnings, disappearances, discoveries, intrigue, love lost, love found, a second chance at life. These are just a few of the twists and turns The Bride Price takes you through. Honestly, one of the best books I've ever read. The time travel aspect of the book is a fresh take and is believable and interesting. Sophie is a Civil War buff who no longer has the strength to go to reenactments due to a heart condition. Jamie is Sophie's devoted Husband who took his wedding vows seriously. Add time travel, amnesia, and murder plots to the mix and you have a fantastic start to the series. I had never heard the story of the Bride Price before this book. It is such a romantic story! P.S. You will fall in love with Samson.

[Tess Ailshire · Rating 3 out of 5]

Perhaps because it's book 1, but there were way too many ends left unfinished, and way too many malapropisms for my taste. We never do learn any underlying reasons for any of the plot machinations; horrific actions have only minimal consequences, etc.

This was a fine afternoon-by-the-pool, no-redeeming-social-value story, but I found no compelling reason to go look for book 2.



(I did wonder why it is that time-travel novels always have the traveler arrive in a time s/he has studied for years. Why can't the civil-war historian arrive in, say, aboriginal Australia, or the Egyptian scholar find herself among the ancient Maya?)

[Georgette · Rating 4 out of 5]

So...I've never read a time travel book. Never even intended too.
But...
When Piper Davenport offered for me to read, I jumped at the chance. I got so caught up in her Caulde Ane series, I just needed MORE of her!
And let me tell you...
She did not disappoint me!
I really truly enjoyed the story of Sophie and Jamie. I wish it hadn't ended, I could've kept reading.
Piper has a power with words that captures you from beginning to end of a book. You feel all the emotions, good and bad.
I will most definitely continue to read this author!

[Kat Cup of Tea Bookblog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this read! I will be honest I am not normally a time travel person but I love this author so decided to give this book a read. I am so glad that I did! This book has romance, history and mystery. I read it almost in one sitting and could not put it down. Sophie and Jamie have an amazing love story that will have you rooting for them through out the book. Plus there are amazing host of characters in this book that make it a fun read. So if you like to read romance or time travel or historical books or just a really great book then this should be your next read!

[Elise Hargreaves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I could NOT put this book down! From the first chapter I was drawn into this completely unique story and I felt as though I was there living it along with the characters. Jamie and Sophie had such a strong bond that I couldn't help but smile whenever I read anything involving them and the secondary characters all added to the story to make it something truly special. I cannot wait to read the next book!!

~ I was provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review ~

[Bethani Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually don't like historical romance books, but I decided to give it a shot because it is by Piper Davenport, and I have loved everything she has written. I wasn't disappointed! The Bride Price was an amazing book. Sophie and Jamie have a once in a lifetime love that even space and time could not tear apart. This book makes you believe in true love and that love doesn't conquer all. I can't wait for the next book in the series!

[Hannah Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie's health is failing and her husband Jamie isn't leaving her side for anything...until she disappears! Sent back in time, Sophie finds herself in Harrisburg in 1863. Luckily for her, she was an avid civil war buff and quickly acclimatizes. She is however lost without Jamie. Can she figure out why she was sent back and will she ever be reunited with her husband? Fantastic story! Fell in love with all the characters and definitely looking forward to more!

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Piper has been expanding my limits as a reader. I am really not much of a time travel fan, how ever Piper has yet to write some thing that I didn't love, so I was more than willing to give it a try. Piper can pull the emotions out and she proves this in the very beginning. The start to this book is heart wrenching. I ask that you don't pass up any Piper book just because of its subject matter because she will surprise you every time

[Michelle Lambert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love time travel books! And this one does not disappoint! Sophie (dying of a failing heart in the present) is sent back to Civil War era Harrisburg, Pa. She leaves behind the love of her life, Jamie. And her beloved sister, Emma. Sophie is sent to maintain the timeline, as others have discovered how to time travel, with the intent to change history. A host of characters are introduced, most likeable, some, not so much. Nothing typical about this book!

[Courtney Wade · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! At first I was a bit iffy because I'm not a big reader of time travel but it sounded quite interesting and let me tell you I was not disappointed. I loved all the characters and the story line. Sophie and jamie are such a great couple and i instantly loved them! This is a must read and a great way to start this series I can't wait to see what comes next!

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think this would be the type of book I would enjoy. But I lived Piper's Cauld Ann series and I am so glad I gave this a good Loved It! I love kind of mystery and intrigue in a novel and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this one. If you are a fan of Piper's work, I highly recommend you read this book. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Piper Davenport book and though it was different from anything I have read before I found it to be a pretty great read. I did find myself a little lost at times but I liked the history aspect of the book and thought that the story was really original and thats what I really loved about the book.