The depth of beauty this novel holds is absolutely legacy writing. I have long been a fan of Tamera Alexander. Two of my favorite series penned by this author are the Fountain Creek Chronicles and Timber Ridge Reflections. These are the kind of black and white words that not only tell a story, but they touch the soul and come alive.
This new novel, With This Pledge, is one of those books that should be in the hand of every person that is unsure of their like in history. Place a book like this in the classroom of young adults and they will fall in love with history and with learning.
This is one of those rich and poignant novels that should be on the big screen. The amazing gift of Ms. Alexander is that she makes you feel as though you are on the front lines, in Carnton, and gives the reader a soul connection to every character. The emotion expressed through her writing is untouchable. She's the best of the best.
The writing is superb. The characters as real as it gets. The historical truth within these pages is remarkable. Oh, the research she must have lived and breathed is clearly shown in this incredible story. Love, principles, promises, honor, faith, it's all here. Friendship and brotherhood, family, lines drawn, protection of home and family, slavery and freedom, choices and coming to realize truth beyond all scope of what generations have taught us, these themes are all alive within these pages.
I can tell you that last night at midnight I closed this book and just a few short hours later I was dreaming of Carnton. When a reader dreams of the places, sights, and sounds that have come to life for them through a novel, well now, you know that's exceptional writing.
This one impacts the heart. It did for me. Generations back my family was plantation owners and owners of slaves. For me to be connected to more truths and read stories of soldier and slave it leaves a tremendous insight and a longing to know more.
I cannot wait to see what comes next for Ms. Alexander. I will patiently await book two. If you have yet to read a novel penned by this wonderful writer I encourage you to begin here with this treasure.
There is so much I can share about this novel, but it is my hope that you uncover its beauty page by page as I too did. The characters are unforgettable, the setting at Carnton is beautiful because war is all around, death and agony are present, but Carnton has a foundation of faith and that alone allows God to shine through all that isn't understood. There is a service in those at Carnton that should come alive in all of us. This is our time to shine in the midst of the unknown. The beautiful characters in this novel are rich in wisdom and carry such love for one another. They serve beyond themselves in knowing it is their calling. They are obedient to their Lord and in that nothing but love and compassion can flow.
I close this novel with such a rich gratitude for this story that has touched my heart and reminds me there is more to living than doing so for self. In our service, no matter where or what, when we allow God to move through us, change comes and love flows.
Grab your favorite coffee. Snuggle in for a while. You are in for a journey to another time and place, but has such reflection on our lives today.
Happy Reading! 💙💙💙💙💙
This novel was a gift from Thomas Nelson for sharing my review with you.
Tamera Alexander is a USA TODAY best-selling author and one of today's most popular writers of inspirational historical romance. Her books have earned her devoted readers worldwide, as well as multiple industry awards. Tamera and her husband make their home in Nashville not far from Carnton and other Southern mansions that serve as the backdrop for many of her critically-acclaimed novels.
