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The Colonel's Lady
In 1779, when genteel Virginia spinster Roxanna Rowan arrives at the Kentucky fort commanded by Colonel Cassius McLinn, she finds that her officer father has died. Penniless and destitute, Roxanna is forced to take her father's place as scrivener. Before long, it's clear that the colonel himself is attracted to her. But she soon realizes the colonel has grave secrets of his own—some of which have to do with her father's sudden death. Can she ever truly love him?
406 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
413 people are currently reading
5820 people want to read
About the author
Laura Frantz
21 books2,762 followersLaura Frantz is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Frantz lives and writes in a log cabin in the heart of Kentucky.According to Publishers Weekly, "Frantz has done her historical homework." With her signature attention to historical detail and emotional depth, she is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant, Literary Agent & Founder, Books & Such Literary Agency of Santa Rosa, California.Readers can find Laura Frantz at www.laurafrantz.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 549 reviews
September 12, 2021
...I LOVED this book.
I am stumbling to find the words to properly describe what it was like to read it. To put it simply, I felt like it was all happening to me. I became so caught up in the story and romance. The emotions triggered were so intense that I had trouble concentrating during the day. I needed to get back to the story and find out if everything was going to be okay! I loved and hated the strong emotions I felt! My heart was twisted with all the feelings! Love...seemingly unrequited love, sorrow, grief, anger ... this book exhausted me! My words cannot do it justice but it was beautifully written and so intense! I didn’t want it to end but I also NEEDED to know if everything would be okay!! AMAZING character development. This book left a mark on me...I won’t stop thinking about this story, the characters, their romance for awhile! This is going on my keeper shelf for sure!!
I am stumbling to find the words to properly describe what it was like to read it. To put it simply, I felt like it was all happening to me. I became so caught up in the story and romance. The emotions triggered were so intense that I had trouble concentrating during the day. I needed to get back to the story and find out if everything was going to be okay! I loved and hated the strong emotions I felt! My heart was twisted with all the feelings! Love...seemingly unrequited love, sorrow, grief, anger ... this book exhausted me! My words cannot do it justice but it was beautifully written and so intense! I didn’t want it to end but I also NEEDED to know if everything would be okay!! AMAZING character development. This book left a mark on me...I won’t stop thinking about this story, the characters, their romance for awhile! This is going on my keeper shelf for sure!!
January 12, 2024
This book had it all - breathless romance (seriously, I sometimes held my breath along with Roxie lol), puzzling mystery (The ending took me completely by surprise), heartwarming friendships, and threads of God's redemption and grace woven throughout. This was my first read by Laura Frantz - it won't be my last!
January 14, 2025
I finished this, and it was a super easy read and fun to get into! Clean romances with actual plot have been fun lately and I loved the early settler's Kentucky setting!
November 12, 2014
Oh my goodness this was amazing!!!
I don't even think I can write something decent to honour it.
I was wrong, so wrong when I said after reading Heyer's The Nonesuch, that my next read might seem poor in comparison.
Poor this certainly was not. It is undoubtedly the most breathtaking, passionate romance since Jane Eyre. Many aspects reminded me of it; we have an orphaned heroine who faces struggle after struggle, never wavering in her faith in God, a tormented hero constantly fighting within himself, as brave and courageous as a colonel could be (and as good-looking and sexy as we can hope!), a fierce, poignant love story and many symbolisms. We have the colonel's domain, the stone house situated outside the fort, which represents everything Roxanna longs for: a home, a loving husband, a family and peace. Just like Thornfield-Hall was a haven of refuge to Jane. There is even Abby, a cute five year old who is mute due to a traumatism, who is most taken care of by Roxanna, as Jane was taking care of Adele. There were many similarities between both novels and I strongly recommend The Colonel's Lady to any Jane Eyre fan.
And then,there is the locket. My personal favourite. Such a beautiful symbol. And such hope it held for the man who kept it!
For some reason, I love the title of this book. The Colonel's Lady. It's simply perfect!
When 28 year old Roxanna Rowan arrives to Fort Endeavor where she hopes to reunite with her father, she is far from suspecting all the tragedy, heartache and pain she will have to suffer. Far too is she from suspecting the effect Colonel Cassius McLinn will have on her. Because whether or not she wishes to remain in Fort Endeavor, she is trapped inside its walls as is it far too dangerous to try to escape. And the more she stays, the harder she is attracted to the handsome Irish colonel, and the harder it will be to leave... This novel was incredibly sad. Sad, with a dark atmosphere tensed by the fear of war, treachery and miserable conditions. And not to mention fraught with high sexual tension. For a Christian novel, I must say that the book was intensely passionate even though there were no explicit inappropriate scenes.
Laura Frantz certainly knows how to deliver a character's point of view. We know exactly what goes on into Roxanna's and Colonel McLinn's heads, as Frantz takes the time to do a profound analysis of their emotions and she lets us know exactly how they feel. I loved that aspect. There was no ambiguity as to what they thought. Their feelings were certainly complicated, but Laura Frantz took the time to voice them, and her characters came alive.
There wasn't much dialogue in this novel, which is the main reason why I struggled a bit with it at the beginning (that and the fact the beginning is pretty confusing because of all the flashbacks) and why I read it at such a slow pace. It was a different experience for me, but I loved it. It was so beautiful. I mean, the characters hardly ever speak to each other; her two main protagonists deliver most of their feelings through intense looks, slight touches, prayers, even gifts... they don't have that much conversation. I loved how the author was able to create an atmosphere where what is left unsaid says much more than what actually is... As for the secondary characters, there is barely any conversation between them when either of the protagonists aren't there. This is an area which I thought was a bit lacking. I would have liked dialogue between the Redstone women, Bella and Hank, and a few scenes where we could have been given insight into the enemies' whereabouts.
The story moves ever so slowly. I would have become seriously annoyed had it not been due to the fact that Frantz was taking her time developing the love story and doing such a wonderful job at it.
Colonel McLinn is definitely my new obsession. I admit that I have always had a soft corner for military men (as my dad is military himself) and he was just...perfect. I loved everything about him. Except his name. Cassius. It made me think of the French "cassis", which a fruit and well, it just bothered me. But since he was most of the time referred to as Cass, the Colonel, or Colonel McLinn, it wasn't all that bad.
But aside that, my gosh what a hero. Strong, brave, honest, noble, but complicated, tormented, and a bit rough around the edges. Sometimes acting the kind gentleman, sometimes the brooding Irish commander. And he was excessively handsome, red-headed, blue-eyed, tall and muscular. Ah! Swoon!
Roxanna was equally wonderful. One of my favourite heroines ever. Truthful, loyal, generous and loving. Her faith brought tears to my eyes. Her goodness was even more brought to life when compared to the Redstone women.
The Colonel's Lady. A story as fiery, passionate and haunting, as it is beautiful, pure and hopeful. Lord, what I wouldn't give for a love like that!
I will definitely be reading more of Laura Frantz' novels.
I don't even think I can write something decent to honour it.
I was wrong, so wrong when I said after reading Heyer's The Nonesuch, that my next read might seem poor in comparison.
Poor this certainly was not. It is undoubtedly the most breathtaking, passionate romance since Jane Eyre. Many aspects reminded me of it; we have an orphaned heroine who faces struggle after struggle, never wavering in her faith in God, a tormented hero constantly fighting within himself, as brave and courageous as a colonel could be (and as good-looking and sexy as we can hope!), a fierce, poignant love story and many symbolisms. We have the colonel's domain, the stone house situated outside the fort, which represents everything Roxanna longs for: a home, a loving husband, a family and peace. Just like Thornfield-Hall was a haven of refuge to Jane. There is even Abby, a cute five year old who is mute due to a traumatism, who is most taken care of by Roxanna, as Jane was taking care of Adele. There were many similarities between both novels and I strongly recommend The Colonel's Lady to any Jane Eyre fan.
And then,there is the locket. My personal favourite. Such a beautiful symbol. And such hope it held for the man who kept it!
For some reason, I love the title of this book. The Colonel's Lady. It's simply perfect!
When 28 year old Roxanna Rowan arrives to Fort Endeavor where she hopes to reunite with her father, she is far from suspecting all the tragedy, heartache and pain she will have to suffer. Far too is she from suspecting the effect Colonel Cassius McLinn will have on her. Because whether or not she wishes to remain in Fort Endeavor, she is trapped inside its walls as is it far too dangerous to try to escape. And the more she stays, the harder she is attracted to the handsome Irish colonel, and the harder it will be to leave... This novel was incredibly sad. Sad, with a dark atmosphere tensed by the fear of war, treachery and miserable conditions. And not to mention fraught with high sexual tension. For a Christian novel, I must say that the book was intensely passionate even though there were no explicit inappropriate scenes.
Laura Frantz certainly knows how to deliver a character's point of view. We know exactly what goes on into Roxanna's and Colonel McLinn's heads, as Frantz takes the time to do a profound analysis of their emotions and she lets us know exactly how they feel. I loved that aspect. There was no ambiguity as to what they thought. Their feelings were certainly complicated, but Laura Frantz took the time to voice them, and her characters came alive.
There wasn't much dialogue in this novel, which is the main reason why I struggled a bit with it at the beginning (that and the fact the beginning is pretty confusing because of all the flashbacks) and why I read it at such a slow pace. It was a different experience for me, but I loved it. It was so beautiful. I mean, the characters hardly ever speak to each other; her two main protagonists deliver most of their feelings through intense looks, slight touches, prayers, even gifts... they don't have that much conversation. I loved how the author was able to create an atmosphere where what is left unsaid says much more than what actually is... As for the secondary characters, there is barely any conversation between them when either of the protagonists aren't there. This is an area which I thought was a bit lacking. I would have liked dialogue between the Redstone women, Bella and Hank, and a few scenes where we could have been given insight into the enemies' whereabouts.
The story moves ever so slowly. I would have become seriously annoyed had it not been due to the fact that Frantz was taking her time developing the love story and doing such a wonderful job at it.
Colonel McLinn is definitely my new obsession. I admit that I have always had a soft corner for military men (as my dad is military himself) and he was just...perfect. I loved everything about him. Except his name. Cassius. It made me think of the French "cassis", which a fruit and well, it just bothered me. But since he was most of the time referred to as Cass, the Colonel, or Colonel McLinn, it wasn't all that bad.
But aside that, my gosh what a hero. Strong, brave, honest, noble, but complicated, tormented, and a bit rough around the edges. Sometimes acting the kind gentleman, sometimes the brooding Irish commander. And he was excessively handsome, red-headed, blue-eyed, tall and muscular. Ah! Swoon!
Roxanna was equally wonderful. One of my favourite heroines ever. Truthful, loyal, generous and loving. Her faith brought tears to my eyes. Her goodness was even more brought to life when compared to the Redstone women.
The Colonel's Lady. A story as fiery, passionate and haunting, as it is beautiful, pure and hopeful. Lord, what I wouldn't give for a love like that!
I will definitely be reading more of Laura Frantz' novels.
July 30, 2011
I couldn’t write this book review right after closing the final page of “The Colonel’s Lady”. Why? My heart was too full.
Ever read a book that all you want to do when you finish is go back to page 1 and start all over again? Ever read a book and want to savor every single word as it leaves the page and enters your heart? Ever read a book and never want it to end??
I can tally all of these qualities for Laura Frantz’s latest book and so much more that is impossible to include in a 200 word review.
When Colonel Cassius McLinn entered the scene, his troops weren’t the only ones jerking to attention. This hero commanded so much attention not only from his fellow characters, but from me as a reader. The beauty of Roxanna’s character and their romance together was enough to draw sparks and leave my heart racing. I can’t even document all the scenes that left me short of air.
Never in all the books have I read, have I come across an author who writes with more lyrical and beautiful quality than Laura Frantz.
Every time I am charmed, blessed and left bereaving the end of another of her stories.
I sing the praises of this book and her previous two, they only get better!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
**Available August 2011 from Revell, a division of Baker Publishers and your favorite bookstore**
Ever read a book that all you want to do when you finish is go back to page 1 and start all over again? Ever read a book and want to savor every single word as it leaves the page and enters your heart? Ever read a book and never want it to end??
I can tally all of these qualities for Laura Frantz’s latest book and so much more that is impossible to include in a 200 word review.
When Colonel Cassius McLinn entered the scene, his troops weren’t the only ones jerking to attention. This hero commanded so much attention not only from his fellow characters, but from me as a reader. The beauty of Roxanna’s character and their romance together was enough to draw sparks and leave my heart racing. I can’t even document all the scenes that left me short of air.
Never in all the books have I read, have I come across an author who writes with more lyrical and beautiful quality than Laura Frantz.
Every time I am charmed, blessed and left bereaving the end of another of her stories.
I sing the praises of this book and her previous two, they only get better!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
**Available August 2011 from Revell, a division of Baker Publishers and your favorite bookstore**
December 26, 2021
I have read and own all Laura Frantz's books and I wish I could give this book 10 stars! It was that good. Not often do I continue to think about a book long after I've closed the last page, but I do with her books. She doesn't just write to give a reader something to read, a bit of fluff with a few scriptures thrown in. Her books cause you to think about your own walk with Christ.
Roxanna Rowan is heading to Fort Endeavor after her mother has died and her engagement is broken. She means to surprise her father who is scrivener at the fort. Circumstances happen and she finds herself at the fort with no place to go or means to get there. Colonel Cassius McLinn is commander of the fort and runs it with an iron hand. It seems everyone walks on egg shells around him, but Roxanna must trust him for her support now. I will not give away more of the story so as not to spoil it for other readers.
This book blew me away. Laura Frantz's books are not ones that,when you are finished with them, you donate, toss or put in a yard sale. They are books you put on your shelf and cherish to read again. She writes with such depth of feeling and unfathomable emotion from the very beginning and it only gets deeper as you continue to read. She plumbs the absolute depths of human emotion. Just when you think the emotional impact of the book can't go any further, yet it does!
She describes her characters so vividly and their psyche that you feel as if you're a part of them. Their pain, love, longings, heartaches. Here are two flawed individuals who have lost everything, basically, and yet they continue to feel as if there might be somethign for them. Yet their pride is almost their undoing. Then they both realize that surrendering to God is what they need and surrender they do in a most wonderful way.
Frantz writes with meticulous and rich attention to historical detail. I found myself researching some of the dishes her characters cooked in the fort kitchen like: apple tansy, coffin pie and cherry bounce. She writes so convincingly that I felt the dark wintry gray atmosphere in the fort when Roxanna first arrived and her heart was as gray as the winter skies. I love history and it's very clear she has done her research well. You feel yourself in the woods during battle scenes, feel fear as you walk through the trees and hear little sounds, knowing that Indians are probably watching your every move.
But what sets this book apart is the depth of feeling in Cass and Roxanna. You want to reach out and touch them and pray for them, it seems so real! There were scenes that had me in tears. I can't say enough good things about this book and I'm not articulate enough to describe it as it truly deserves. This book was a masterpiece and I am so glad that I bought it. I will continue to buy all Laura Frantz's books. I don't even have to read the synopsis. I know for a fact they will be worth it. I will be thinking about this book all day today and how good it was. It's hard to pick up another cause you know it won't measure up to the wealth in The Colonel's Lady.
This was a reread ten years later.
Roxanna Rowan is heading to Fort Endeavor after her mother has died and her engagement is broken. She means to surprise her father who is scrivener at the fort. Circumstances happen and she finds herself at the fort with no place to go or means to get there. Colonel Cassius McLinn is commander of the fort and runs it with an iron hand. It seems everyone walks on egg shells around him, but Roxanna must trust him for her support now. I will not give away more of the story so as not to spoil it for other readers.
This book blew me away. Laura Frantz's books are not ones that,when you are finished with them, you donate, toss or put in a yard sale. They are books you put on your shelf and cherish to read again. She writes with such depth of feeling and unfathomable emotion from the very beginning and it only gets deeper as you continue to read. She plumbs the absolute depths of human emotion. Just when you think the emotional impact of the book can't go any further, yet it does!
She describes her characters so vividly and their psyche that you feel as if you're a part of them. Their pain, love, longings, heartaches. Here are two flawed individuals who have lost everything, basically, and yet they continue to feel as if there might be somethign for them. Yet their pride is almost their undoing. Then they both realize that surrendering to God is what they need and surrender they do in a most wonderful way.
Frantz writes with meticulous and rich attention to historical detail. I found myself researching some of the dishes her characters cooked in the fort kitchen like: apple tansy, coffin pie and cherry bounce. She writes so convincingly that I felt the dark wintry gray atmosphere in the fort when Roxanna first arrived and her heart was as gray as the winter skies. I love history and it's very clear she has done her research well. You feel yourself in the woods during battle scenes, feel fear as you walk through the trees and hear little sounds, knowing that Indians are probably watching your every move.
But what sets this book apart is the depth of feeling in Cass and Roxanna. You want to reach out and touch them and pray for them, it seems so real! There were scenes that had me in tears. I can't say enough good things about this book and I'm not articulate enough to describe it as it truly deserves. This book was a masterpiece and I am so glad that I bought it. I will continue to buy all Laura Frantz's books. I don't even have to read the synopsis. I know for a fact they will be worth it. I will be thinking about this book all day today and how good it was. It's hard to pick up another cause you know it won't measure up to the wealth in The Colonel's Lady.
This was a reread ten years later.
December 8, 2016
I'm not sure why I didn't give this 5 stars before! Such an enjoyable listen :)
October 3, 2021
I didn't expect this to be a Christian HR, but the heroine's faith seemed to be part of her characterisation and appropriate for the era, so it did not overwhelm the story. The heroine started well, strong and capable, but unfortunately she ended up making many questionable and highly impulsive decisions that were really quite contrary to person she was initially portrayed to be. The hero fared slightly better, but I was disappointed that despite the author's note in the beginning introducing alcohol as a major problem for those fighting in the frontier, the author did not commit herself to going into depth about this issue. I feel that there was too much going on plot-wise and some of these side plots were not well-executed. The pacing was also rather slow in the middle which made finishing an arduous task, possible only due to the fact that this was buddy read so thank you, ladies.
July 27, 2011
Ok, I give this author gold stars for her obvious passion for Kentucky and for history. Her research is good. However, reading this, I cannot get into it as believability. I don't think Roxanna would just pick up and follow her father to his fort (and I think Frantz is sort of copying from The Last of the Mohicans with that one). Especially at the beginning of the book, the characters are stiff and very one dimensional. The conversations the two main characters have, are so convenient and formal. I get so tired of this formal, make believe talk--the scenes aren't written with ease. Her research is good, and some bits of this story have glimmers of intenseness that make one keep reading. But then in the end, it leaves me disappointed.
I did think the end with the battle was well done and interesting, aside from the multiple annoying 'No's to marriage' Roxie keeps saying to Cass. And then out of the blue she finally says yes. Not cool. The rejection was getting old. So were the reasonings of her character half the time.
I did think the end with the battle was well done and interesting, aside from the multiple annoying 'No's to marriage' Roxie keeps saying to Cass. And then out of the blue she finally says yes. Not cool. The rejection was getting old. So were the reasonings of her character half the time.
July 21, 2016
SUMMARY: In 1779, when genteel Virginia spinster Roxanna Rowan arrives at the Kentucky fort commanded by Colonel Cassius McLinn, she finds that her officer father has died. Penniless and destitute, Roxanna is forced to take her father's place as scrivener. Before long, it's clear that the colonel himself is attracted to her. But she soon realizes the colonel has grave secrets of his own-some of which have to do with her father's sudden death. Can she ever truly love him? Readers will be enchanted by this powerful story of love, faith, and forgiveness from reader favorite Laura Frantz. Her solid research and deft writing immerse readers in the world of the early frontier while her realistic characters become intimate friends.
REVIEW: Laura Frantz' knowledge of Kentucky during the colonial era is outstanding. It comes to life in this book as the Patriots fight the British in the Revolutionary War. The difficulties of life on the frontier, the hardships the military underwent, and the struggles of every day life are depicted so well that I felt I was right there in the midst of it all. This book is dynamic from start to finish.
The plot line is riveting, the characters are full of depth and interest, and there are enough twists and turns in the plot to make you wonder who exactly is doing what. The faith thread of Christianity is woven with such expertise that it feels perfect in each place it appears without becoming preachy or overly pious.
I loved Roxie's strength and perseverance even when things got difficult and her faith was tested. She was one gutsy lady to head out to the middle of nowhere in the midst of a military revolution. Her relationship with Cass helped them both develop strengths and more solid faith than either had alone.
I loved Bella and her sass and substance. Abby was a delight as a minor character who came alive with the love and warmth that both Cass and Roxie showed her.
Overall, a beautifully written, historical romance that definitely made my 2016 Favorites list.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "God is bigger than any evil you face."
"..the true measure of love is what one is willing to give up for it."
"Sometimes I feel I'm walking in a sort of darkness, as the Scripture says. But now I see I must simply trust Him, keep my eyes on Him, and have faith that all will come right."
REVIEW: Laura Frantz' knowledge of Kentucky during the colonial era is outstanding. It comes to life in this book as the Patriots fight the British in the Revolutionary War. The difficulties of life on the frontier, the hardships the military underwent, and the struggles of every day life are depicted so well that I felt I was right there in the midst of it all. This book is dynamic from start to finish.
The plot line is riveting, the characters are full of depth and interest, and there are enough twists and turns in the plot to make you wonder who exactly is doing what. The faith thread of Christianity is woven with such expertise that it feels perfect in each place it appears without becoming preachy or overly pious.
I loved Roxie's strength and perseverance even when things got difficult and her faith was tested. She was one gutsy lady to head out to the middle of nowhere in the midst of a military revolution. Her relationship with Cass helped them both develop strengths and more solid faith than either had alone.
I loved Bella and her sass and substance. Abby was a delight as a minor character who came alive with the love and warmth that both Cass and Roxie showed her.
Overall, a beautifully written, historical romance that definitely made my 2016 Favorites list.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "God is bigger than any evil you face."
"..the true measure of love is what one is willing to give up for it."
"Sometimes I feel I'm walking in a sort of darkness, as the Scripture says. But now I see I must simply trust Him, keep my eyes on Him, and have faith that all will come right."
September 30, 2021
2.5 stars. This one was a little slow for me and I did some light skimming in the second half. I quite liked Cass, the hero, but I found Roxanne a little problematical and didn't really connect with her character. She was too impulsive and made some silly decisions with no forethought, that ended up putting her in danger or a bad situation. I got frustrated with that.
I read this book for the Romance Across The Ages challenge, September 2021 American Revolution theme.
I read this book for the Romance Across The Ages challenge, September 2021 American Revolution theme.
April 9, 2016
Beautifully written love story that is rich in historical detail. The Colonel's Lady is set in Revolutionary War Kentucke Territory.
I highly recommend this novel for fans of Lori Benton.
I highly recommend this novel for fans of Lori Benton.
January 28, 2014
Well, this is my first, and likely my last "Christian" novel. And admittedly, this is a rant.
First, the heroine, Roxie, is just plain stupid. I know you need conflict for this story, but the conflict of a stupid person doing stupid things is not good. That's not conflict. It is stupid to set out alone for the frontier. It is stupid to decide to follow an army like a camp follower. It is stupid to simper.
Here is her character: Oh I will pray on it. Oh God help me. I am an old, plain, lame spinster not worthy of love. You don't love me. I need to pray. Barf. Girlfriend, if you need to pray that much, go find yourself a convent.
Lookit, sister, if you are good enough for God's love. You are good enough for an ordinary man, so if you truly believe in God and His love, then you shouldn't be all, I am not worthy of love BS. I don't care that she got jilted by a man she didn't love. She even said she pretended to love him, so that jilting shouldn't have "hurt" her to the point where she felt unworthy.
And Bella to Roxie saying she has something those other girls don't - purity. Barf. I knew she meant purity in spirit (not body) but barf. Purity is simple. This character is simple. Not complex.
Oh and she couldn't accept Cass until he confessed that he had accepted God into his life. Really? Judgey much? Why must a person confess it? Why can't they just live it? Why isn't that enough? And why isn't she smart enough to see him live it, rather than confess it to accept it? He gave up drink because she suggested it and saw the error of his ways, that the drink did not feed his soul. But that isn't proof enough. He has to say those stupid and irritating words to get her to believe him.
And all the damn praying. Blerg. It is as bad as traditional romances with all the sex. Yeah, I said it, the praying is just like the sex! Just skip right over it. It isn't enough that she the author says they prayed, but must repeat the same grace prayer over and over and over. I guess "Christian" is code word for preachy.
And that Greer character, when he proposed, said he prayed over it and felt that that was what God wanted. Really? B/c that isn't how it turned out. So God must not have wanted that. How wrong you were to interpret what God wants. How arrogant you are to presume to know what God wants.
How many acts and desires by men have been justified by "I prayed over it and this is what God wants?"
Just blerg. If I were reading this as a paperback, I would have thrown it across the room. My iPad did not deserve the abuse heaped upon it because of this stain in the written word.
First, the heroine, Roxie, is just plain stupid. I know you need conflict for this story, but the conflict of a stupid person doing stupid things is not good. That's not conflict. It is stupid to set out alone for the frontier. It is stupid to decide to follow an army like a camp follower. It is stupid to simper.
Here is her character: Oh I will pray on it. Oh God help me. I am an old, plain, lame spinster not worthy of love. You don't love me. I need to pray. Barf. Girlfriend, if you need to pray that much, go find yourself a convent.
Lookit, sister, if you are good enough for God's love. You are good enough for an ordinary man, so if you truly believe in God and His love, then you shouldn't be all, I am not worthy of love BS. I don't care that she got jilted by a man she didn't love. She even said she pretended to love him, so that jilting shouldn't have "hurt" her to the point where she felt unworthy.
And Bella to Roxie saying she has something those other girls don't - purity. Barf. I knew she meant purity in spirit (not body) but barf. Purity is simple. This character is simple. Not complex.
Oh and she couldn't accept Cass until he confessed that he had accepted God into his life. Really? Judgey much? Why must a person confess it? Why can't they just live it? Why isn't that enough? And why isn't she smart enough to see him live it, rather than confess it to accept it? He gave up drink because she suggested it and saw the error of his ways, that the drink did not feed his soul. But that isn't proof enough. He has to say those stupid and irritating words to get her to believe him.
And all the damn praying. Blerg. It is as bad as traditional romances with all the sex. Yeah, I said it, the praying is just like the sex! Just skip right over it. It isn't enough that she the author says they prayed, but must repeat the same grace prayer over and over and over. I guess "Christian" is code word for preachy.
And that Greer character, when he proposed, said he prayed over it and felt that that was what God wanted. Really? B/c that isn't how it turned out. So God must not have wanted that. How wrong you were to interpret what God wants. How arrogant you are to presume to know what God wants.
How many acts and desires by men have been justified by "I prayed over it and this is what God wants?"
Just blerg. If I were reading this as a paperback, I would have thrown it across the room. My iPad did not deserve the abuse heaped upon it because of this stain in the written word.
July 17, 2011
Nobody writes frontier romance like Laura Frantz! The Colonel's Lady is yet another example of Christian fiction at it's finest. This book is not simply a historical romance but a story of loss, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit. The beautiful and dangerous Kentucke territory has never been more alive to me and characters have never spoken to me more in any Christian book I've read. From the first shocking accident of an on edge militia to the tender ministrations and care of a lover to his beloved on her sickbed to the final shocking revelation, The Colonel's Lady will leave your heart topsy turvy. If Cass and Roxanna's unfolding relationship doesn't keep you riveted to the page nothing will. Be prepared to stay up long into the night even after the final page is turned thinking about all that happened, not just between the hero and heroine, but at Fort Endeavor and on the battlefield. Make room for The Colonel's Lady on your keeper shelf right beside The Frontiersman's Daughter and Courting Morrow Little.
*I received my complimentary review copy from Revell in exchange for posting my honest review.*
*I received my complimentary review copy from Revell in exchange for posting my honest review.*
February 4, 2023
The romance level was a little much for me, as is typical with Laura Frantz’s books, but once again she has wowed me with her complex, vivid portrayal of military and frontier life in the 1770s. The setting truly came to life, with plenty of rich detail and no attempts to gloss over the hardships of fort life. The frontier politics of British and Native American warfare were handled well, especially given the author’s note on how complicated those politics could be. The characters were all strong and well drawn, even when they were frustrating. Cass made an excellent military hero, and I appreciated the way Roxie’s faith was obviously a part of who she was. I wish her faith had played into the romance more; the focus seemed almost purely physical instead of spiritual, with Roxie’s emotions deeply in love before Cass was showing any signs of a life of faith. That climax, though—I couldn’t put it down. The military and historical storyline was what attracted me to this book, and that plot definitely delivered. Romance lovers will enjoy this book more than I did, but as always the writing style and historical details were perfection.
June 10, 2016
4 1/2 stars
Laura Franz always writes an engrossing tale! She's so difficult to put down! This book was no different.
I don't know why, but despite that I've yet to give one of Laura Frantz' books five stars. Don't let that put you off, while this didn't make five it was a solid four and there's nothing about the book that I didn't like. (The hero and heroine not being able to love each other because of goodness knows what, aside).
I had fun, even though I know when I pick up one of Frantz' books it'll be an emotional roller coaster ride. I enjoyed the details that made me feel like I was really there and how as in real life, not everything goes perfectly.
I'm late reviewing so I can't remember enough to add more, but I recommend this book, the heroine is one of my favorites.
PG Some fallen women, battle wounds, etc.
Laura Franz always writes an engrossing tale! She's so difficult to put down! This book was no different.
I don't know why, but despite that I've yet to give one of Laura Frantz' books five stars. Don't let that put you off, while this didn't make five it was a solid four and there's nothing about the book that I didn't like. (The hero and heroine not being able to love each other because of goodness knows what, aside).
I had fun, even though I know when I pick up one of Frantz' books it'll be an emotional roller coaster ride. I enjoyed the details that made me feel like I was really there and how as in real life, not everything goes perfectly.
I'm late reviewing so I can't remember enough to add more, but I recommend this book, the heroine is one of my favorites.
PG Some fallen women, battle wounds, etc.
October 1, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! My attention was captivated by it from start to finish. It had everything I’m looking for in a good historical fiction book— or any book for that matter. Faith, romance, history, and suspense as well as beautiful writing and great characters. This is the kind of book that makes you feel as if you’re in the book, living the story with the characters and I loved it! I loved the setting of this book and all of the history within these pages. 5/5 stars for me!🥰
I’d recommend it to older teens and up.
I’d recommend it to older teens and up.
July 21, 2024
Dit boek had ik in de helft van de tijd kunnen lezen als de schrijfster wat minder bijvoeglijke naamwoorden had gebruikt
January 1, 2012
"The Colonel's Lady" is, without a doubt, the best book I've read all year. Laura Frantz is an exceptional author.
The plot gripped me from the beginning, and the author lost no time revealing the book's theme of love, forgiveness, and war-time intrigue. Colonel McLinn has accidentally shot his scrivener while on campaign in the Kentucke wilderness during the American Revolution. His scrivener's dying request is for McLinn to take care of his only daughter, Roxie. Imagine McLinn's surprise and heartache when he returns to his post at Fort Endeavour and finds Roxie there -- penniless, destitute and teetering on the edge of spinsterhood despite her beauty. Her father was her only hope of a future. What will happen to her now?
The characters came alive, causing me to care about what happened to them. Even the main character, Roxie, had a refreshing personality! I have read so many books spotlighting "cookie-cutter" heroines, where the writing focuses on her reactions to the hero and her circumstances, leaving her uniqueness as an individual in shadows. Roxie is anything but "cookie-cutter", and by the time I turned the last page, I felt as if I knew her personally. And the hero, McLinn! He's more than the gruff but gentlemanly soldier. He's haunted by his secrets, and an evil twin brother. What I loved about him (besides his Irish heritage and good looks) is that even in the face of rejection, he allows himself to be vulnerable.
The pace was a bit slower that what I usually like, but never once did the story lose my attention, demonstrating the author's skill. The day-in and day-out aspects of the story made it more real and life-like. I was transported to the Kentucke territory during the time of the American Revolution, and I learned so much about how they lived. What they ate. What they did to pass the time in a lonely wilderness fort hemmed in by the danger of war.
I was blown away by the beauty of Frantz's writing voice, and her eye-opening descriptions. How many times have I read a book and lost track of what the scene looked like during fast-paced action or dialogue? Never happened in "The Colonel's Lady". Just as I began to lose the scene in my mind's eye, Frantz would bring it back in riveting clarity.
My favorite parts of the story were "Fort Smitty" and "The Cribbage Game". (That was for Laura and those who have read the book -- I'm not saying anything further. :-)
Five stars (if that wasn't already obvious). I'm a new fan of Laura Frantz, and will be collecting all of her books. She currently has two others out there: "The Frontiersman's Daughter" and "Courting Morrow Little", and she's currently working on a series entitled "The Ballantyne Legacy". I can't wait to read them!
The plot gripped me from the beginning, and the author lost no time revealing the book's theme of love, forgiveness, and war-time intrigue. Colonel McLinn has accidentally shot his scrivener while on campaign in the Kentucke wilderness during the American Revolution. His scrivener's dying request is for McLinn to take care of his only daughter, Roxie. Imagine McLinn's surprise and heartache when he returns to his post at Fort Endeavour and finds Roxie there -- penniless, destitute and teetering on the edge of spinsterhood despite her beauty. Her father was her only hope of a future. What will happen to her now?
The characters came alive, causing me to care about what happened to them. Even the main character, Roxie, had a refreshing personality! I have read so many books spotlighting "cookie-cutter" heroines, where the writing focuses on her reactions to the hero and her circumstances, leaving her uniqueness as an individual in shadows. Roxie is anything but "cookie-cutter", and by the time I turned the last page, I felt as if I knew her personally. And the hero, McLinn! He's more than the gruff but gentlemanly soldier. He's haunted by his secrets, and an evil twin brother. What I loved about him (besides his Irish heritage and good looks) is that even in the face of rejection, he allows himself to be vulnerable.
The pace was a bit slower that what I usually like, but never once did the story lose my attention, demonstrating the author's skill. The day-in and day-out aspects of the story made it more real and life-like. I was transported to the Kentucke territory during the time of the American Revolution, and I learned so much about how they lived. What they ate. What they did to pass the time in a lonely wilderness fort hemmed in by the danger of war.
I was blown away by the beauty of Frantz's writing voice, and her eye-opening descriptions. How many times have I read a book and lost track of what the scene looked like during fast-paced action or dialogue? Never happened in "The Colonel's Lady". Just as I began to lose the scene in my mind's eye, Frantz would bring it back in riveting clarity.
My favorite parts of the story were "Fort Smitty" and "The Cribbage Game". (That was for Laura and those who have read the book -- I'm not saying anything further. :-)
Five stars (if that wasn't already obvious). I'm a new fan of Laura Frantz, and will be collecting all of her books. She currently has two others out there: "The Frontiersman's Daughter" and "Courting Morrow Little", and she's currently working on a series entitled "The Ballantyne Legacy". I can't wait to read them!
August 21, 2018
I was lukewarm on this one. There were parts that were stellar, and other times when things fell apart. There were also threads left hanging.
July 25, 2021
4.5⭐
Solid five star read, but oy vey that h! Some of her choices left me flabbergasted and frustrated!
Solid five star read, but oy vey that h! Some of her choices left me flabbergasted and frustrated!
January 20, 2024
My heart. Can I just say this story shook me? Days ago I finished and still the story, the characters, the themes… they haunt me.
I think the problem with my reading all of Laura’s books in rapid succession is that all my thoughts start feeling like a broken record, haha. Seriously, she doesn’t disappoint! Each story feels better than the last and suffice to say, I’m hooked!
Cass McLinn is an enigma. Hard and taciturn and yet he dances with a child and gifts a grieving woman a beautiful tea cup. Roxanna is a steady woman of strong, unwavering faith, who is a true friend. The way Roxie & Cass go toe to toe in their banter and sparring is perfection.
This book dealt with some of the harder/harsher realities of fort life in terms of loose morals among women who dallied with soldiers (and the physical consequences of that), the perils of over-imibing on alcohol, and the like. All was handled well & delicately, though the content was definitely more for an adult audience.
There’s a mystery, a spy, and so much betrayal; my heart was on the line the entire way through!
I think the problem with my reading all of Laura’s books in rapid succession is that all my thoughts start feeling like a broken record, haha. Seriously, she doesn’t disappoint! Each story feels better than the last and suffice to say, I’m hooked!
Cass McLinn is an enigma. Hard and taciturn and yet he dances with a child and gifts a grieving woman a beautiful tea cup. Roxanna is a steady woman of strong, unwavering faith, who is a true friend. The way Roxie & Cass go toe to toe in their banter and sparring is perfection.
This book dealt with some of the harder/harsher realities of fort life in terms of loose morals among women who dallied with soldiers (and the physical consequences of that), the perils of over-imibing on alcohol, and the like. All was handled well & delicately, though the content was definitely more for an adult audience.
There’s a mystery, a spy, and so much betrayal; my heart was on the line the entire way through!
February 7, 2017
Originally posted to https://christianshelfesteem.wordpres...
Originally published in August 2011, The Colonel’s Lady by Laura Frantz is now available as an audiobook. Set in 1779, the story opens with five women and a child huddled in a cave attempting to evade a band of Indian raiders. Among the group headed to Ft. Endeavor in the Kentucky Territory is Roxanna Rowan. She has travelled all the way from Virginia to meet her father, who is about to resign his commission. Upon their safe arrival, Roxanna learns her father has been killed by friendly fire. With his dying breath, he placed Roxy in the charge of Colonel Cassius McLinn—the man who shot him.
I enjoy the way Frantz invites readers into a scene! Whether she is painting a sweeping landscape or an intimate scene between two characters, her imagery and attention to historic details are all-absorbing. Also, the woman can write a kiss… This is not something I would usually comment on, but the way she builds the chemistry between Cas and Roxy is commendable! In a story rife with conflict, I would have liked the author to leave her characters with some flaws–in my opinion the ending was too tidy. Allowing a character to extend grace and then erasing the need for that grace undermines the gravity of the action.
I thank Laura Jennings, the narrator, for this Audible recording of The Colonel’s Lady. I often do not revisit an author when a previous work has failed to capture my imagination. In contrast to Frantz’s Love’s Reckoning, this story had just the right amount of danger and romance to keep me engaged. All the way through, Jennings’ narration enhanced the urgency or intimacy of the scenes accordingly. While the story was a bit long (13 hours and 8 minutes), I never fatigued of Jennings voice or cadence. She also assigned enough distinction to each character’s voice that my focus was always rightfully placed. Through her voice performance, Jennings has reignited my interest in Frantz’s other stories.
Originally published in August 2011, The Colonel’s Lady by Laura Frantz is now available as an audiobook. Set in 1779, the story opens with five women and a child huddled in a cave attempting to evade a band of Indian raiders. Among the group headed to Ft. Endeavor in the Kentucky Territory is Roxanna Rowan. She has travelled all the way from Virginia to meet her father, who is about to resign his commission. Upon their safe arrival, Roxanna learns her father has been killed by friendly fire. With his dying breath, he placed Roxy in the charge of Colonel Cassius McLinn—the man who shot him.
I enjoy the way Frantz invites readers into a scene! Whether she is painting a sweeping landscape or an intimate scene between two characters, her imagery and attention to historic details are all-absorbing. Also, the woman can write a kiss… This is not something I would usually comment on, but the way she builds the chemistry between Cas and Roxy is commendable! In a story rife with conflict, I would have liked the author to leave her characters with some flaws–in my opinion the ending was too tidy. Allowing a character to extend grace and then erasing the need for that grace undermines the gravity of the action.
I thank Laura Jennings, the narrator, for this Audible recording of The Colonel’s Lady. I often do not revisit an author when a previous work has failed to capture my imagination. In contrast to Frantz’s Love’s Reckoning, this story had just the right amount of danger and romance to keep me engaged. All the way through, Jennings’ narration enhanced the urgency or intimacy of the scenes accordingly. While the story was a bit long (13 hours and 8 minutes), I never fatigued of Jennings voice or cadence. She also assigned enough distinction to each character’s voice that my focus was always rightfully placed. Through her voice performance, Jennings has reignited my interest in Frantz’s other stories.
September 13, 2023
Roxanna comes to the Fort where her father is stationed with some ladies and young girl. After arriving she finds out her father was killed in battle. There she meets Colonel Cassius. Cassius has instant attraction to Roxanna and lets her stay in at the fort. He develops a friendship with her and wants there to be more but he has a secret, he shot her father accidentally.
This was a really good story. I really liked Cassius and felt bad for him at times. He is very sweet, kind and brave. Roxanna is kind and a hard worker. Her major flaw is being too untrusting at times. I really liked how they interacted with each other. The kissing scenes were make outs. Still clean though. Overall great read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
This was a really good story. I really liked Cassius and felt bad for him at times. He is very sweet, kind and brave. Roxanna is kind and a hard worker. Her major flaw is being too untrusting at times. I really liked how they interacted with each other. The kissing scenes were make outs. Still clean though. Overall great read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
April 19, 2016
I always love a good historical fiction that includes loads of great research! I truly enjoy travelling to different eras through the books I read, and this one got me fully immersed in frontier Kentucke. Cass and Roxanna were both vivid characters, and I loved seeing this hero fight to become the man Roxie needed. I also love stories of older heroines, so it was nice to have Roxanna a mature young lady of twenty-eight. The ending especially had me on the edge of my seat!
April 13, 2016
Beautiful Colonial story about Kentucke Territory. I feel like I was at the remote fort and experiencing all that took place first hand . This novel is so rich in historical detail that I find myself asking myself why I didn't read this sooner instead of waiting til it was the group book read of the month. This is my 5th Laura Frantz book read and I think there are 2 books left of hers I haven't read yet and I hope to have a chance to read them sooner rather than later.
January 14, 2023
Good book! Had an interesting premise and kept my interest fairly well, though I admit to skimming a couple times in the middle when nothing seemed to be happening.
November 14, 2022
Another fantastic read by Laura Frantz. One of my reading goals has been to go back and catch up on her backlist and I have just one more left to go after reading this one. I will miss having her backlist to dive into every now and then :) I love her books so much. She is a master storyteller for sure and reading her prose is always a treat. Like enjoying a fine dessert. If you haven't discovered Laura's books yet and you like historical fiction, do yourself a favor and start reading them asap :)
July 26, 2015
Beautiful cover, ridiculous story. I am a big time sucker for 18th century romance like Anne Greene's Masquerade Marriage. I don't mind if it's mildly cheesy. I am forgiving if it's sappy. But this book was just plain dumb.
Actually, it was so dumb I loved reading it. ;)You gotta give Laura Frantz some credit--she is something more than the usual tepid fluff written by so many authors. She manages to make her fluff special, unique--gloriously cheesy. ;)
The plot is supposedly about a brave woman's Revolutionary War era love story with a hunky colonel at a military fort.
The actual story is about a self dramatizing dork who has a major crush on an implausibly patient and distinctly plain, carrot-headed military man.( It doesn't help I tend to think red hair on men is not attractive). The book was much too long for the content. It was impossible to believe this witless woman would not have been married to the colonel in a matter of months, and equally impossible to believe she would not have been better supervised and guided by a guy as supposedly stern and imposing as he is. In real life, he would have made her a wife in no time at all, leaving no room for the ceaseless and increasingly tedious plot perambulations. Supposedly the book has a spy plot thread and a few battles, some religion, and intense scenes of action. None of these areas felt particularly real. The meat of the book lay in a few specific scenes:
1: The ( by now inevitable in Christian romance fiction) scene introducing several " researched" prostitutes. Researched--maybe. Convincing...no. ;)
2: The hilarious scene where the Colonel dances with Roxanna and she removes his hair ribbon--then throws a fit cuz HIS HAIR IS LOOSE and makes him run out the door. OH THE DRAMA. ;)
3: The tantrum Roxie threw when she thought--on little evidence, I might add--that McLinn was going to have sex with a gorgeous Shawnee princess.
4: Roxanna taking poison when the Colonel had been poisoned and was gravely ill-- oh, she must take some of the attention back to herself, mustn't she? ;) Poor McLinn.
5: A striking but cheesy plot twist of McLinn's evil, carrot-haired twin brother making a mess of things on the frontier.
6: And, finally, an outrageous area where Roxie accuses McLinn of fathering an illegitimate red-haired child---based on the fact that his hair is also red and that a dishonest woman who nobody particularly esteems claims the story is true.
Ok, now you see why this poor book was funny.
Not a harmful read. Just like the worst episodes of Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman. Badly diseased with underwear references and not historically plausible--because something like this doesn't happen among real people, 18th century or otherwise. And nobody goes around in the real world thinking about their underwear all the time. :)
Read it if you like that sort of thing. You could read worse.
Actually, it was so dumb I loved reading it. ;)You gotta give Laura Frantz some credit--she is something more than the usual tepid fluff written by so many authors. She manages to make her fluff special, unique--gloriously cheesy. ;)
The plot is supposedly about a brave woman's Revolutionary War era love story with a hunky colonel at a military fort.
The actual story is about a self dramatizing dork who has a major crush on an implausibly patient and distinctly plain, carrot-headed military man.( It doesn't help I tend to think red hair on men is not attractive). The book was much too long for the content. It was impossible to believe this witless woman would not have been married to the colonel in a matter of months, and equally impossible to believe she would not have been better supervised and guided by a guy as supposedly stern and imposing as he is. In real life, he would have made her a wife in no time at all, leaving no room for the ceaseless and increasingly tedious plot perambulations. Supposedly the book has a spy plot thread and a few battles, some religion, and intense scenes of action. None of these areas felt particularly real. The meat of the book lay in a few specific scenes:
1: The ( by now inevitable in Christian romance fiction) scene introducing several " researched" prostitutes. Researched--maybe. Convincing...no. ;)
2: The hilarious scene where the Colonel dances with Roxanna and she removes his hair ribbon--then throws a fit cuz HIS HAIR IS LOOSE and makes him run out the door. OH THE DRAMA. ;)
3: The tantrum Roxie threw when she thought--on little evidence, I might add--that McLinn was going to have sex with a gorgeous Shawnee princess.
4: Roxanna taking poison when the Colonel had been poisoned and was gravely ill-- oh, she must take some of the attention back to herself, mustn't she? ;) Poor McLinn.
5: A striking but cheesy plot twist of McLinn's evil, carrot-haired twin brother making a mess of things on the frontier.
6: And, finally, an outrageous area where Roxie accuses McLinn of fathering an illegitimate red-haired child---based on the fact that his hair is also red and that a dishonest woman who nobody particularly esteems claims the story is true.
Ok, now you see why this poor book was funny.
Not a harmful read. Just like the worst episodes of Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman. Badly diseased with underwear references and not historically plausible--because something like this doesn't happen among real people, 18th century or otherwise. And nobody goes around in the real world thinking about their underwear all the time. :)
Read it if you like that sort of thing. You could read worse.
August 2, 2017
2.75 stars.
I enjoyed many aspects of this book. The masterful portrayal of this period of American history was interesting and engaging to the end. The author did a wonderful job bringing this time period to life, conveying the raw beauty and lurking danger of the Kentucke frontier. The angst and the conflict between the MCs was also poignant and lovely. Instead of contrivances that are seemingly present in almost all romance these days, the circumstances surrounding this story felt like they could have really happened. I loved the message of forgiveness and finding peace in God instead of circumstances. And the epilogue at the end was very sweet.
That being said, I couldn't bring myself to rate this any higher. Why? I basically couldn't stand the h. She was almost 30 years old but her whiny inner monologue and ridiculously impetuous actions made her seem like a teenager. Have you ever read a character whose every big decision makes you wonder "Why did she do that? Is she crazy or something?" That would be how I felt about Roxanna, the h. Her decisions made no sense and were, I hate to say it, mostly stupid. She was also annoyingly obsessed with living in the H's stone house and couldn't stop pointing out how she felt stuck in the filthy, uncouth fort. (We get it already. It was really dirty there and you weren't grateful for the protection it afforded you at all.) Add to that the fact that she jumped to conclusions all the time. And the h's attraction to the H was disappointingly superficial, especially in the beginning of this story.
Overall a worthwhile historical romance that's pretty clean with a strong Christian message...as long as you can tolerate an h like Roxanna.
I enjoyed many aspects of this book. The masterful portrayal of this period of American history was interesting and engaging to the end. The author did a wonderful job bringing this time period to life, conveying the raw beauty and lurking danger of the Kentucke frontier. The angst and the conflict between the MCs was also poignant and lovely. Instead of contrivances that are seemingly present in almost all romance these days, the circumstances surrounding this story felt like they could have really happened. I loved the message of forgiveness and finding peace in God instead of circumstances. And the epilogue at the end was very sweet.
That being said, I couldn't bring myself to rate this any higher. Why? I basically couldn't stand the h. She was almost 30 years old but her whiny inner monologue and ridiculously impetuous actions made her seem like a teenager. Have you ever read a character whose every big decision makes you wonder "Why did she do that? Is she crazy or something?" That would be how I felt about Roxanna, the h. Her decisions made no sense and were, I hate to say it, mostly stupid. She was also annoyingly obsessed with living in the H's stone house and couldn't stop pointing out how she felt stuck in the filthy, uncouth fort. (We get it already. It was really dirty there and you weren't grateful for the protection it afforded you at all.) Add to that the fact that she jumped to conclusions all the time. And the h's attraction to the H was disappointingly superficial, especially in the beginning of this story.
Overall a worthwhile historical romance that's pretty clean with a strong Christian message...as long as you can tolerate an h like Roxanna.
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