First I must say that Tracie Peterson is the queen of historical fiction. She does her homework and sets the scene for the story. She makes it real and vivid as if we are being given the gift of going back in time and being there in person.
The Civil War has touched the lives of everyone and has left a scar on every heart in some form or fashion. Two sides. Who is right and who is wrong? There is more than just standing for what is right in this story. It's heart against heart. Hate is alive and real. But God reveals beauty within these pages. We find love and healing. We see characters that cling to your heart long after the story has ended. Why? Because of the message they give. To be yourself and to know your heart. To live faithful lives and surrender your anger for peace. Most of all we see growth. You either grow or stay stagnate and you sure can't touch the sky that way.
I loved all this book brought to my heart. The story is captivating, but it is hard. It's a time that seems never to pass fully. It's a time that is debated even today. But Tracie has brought the hearts of man to life. She gives us a glimpse of what has happened after the battle lines are drawn and shows us the battle within the heart. Forgiveness needs to happen. Sight needs to go beyond the color of skin and into the heart of man. Tracie has weaved a story within a story here and that is what is so grand.
This is book 2 of the Land Of The Lone Star Series. Book 1 doesn't have to be read first, but wow, you would miss out on another great read. This one was a superb read for me. Loved it!
This book was a gift from Bethany House for it's review.
Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. Visit Tracie's Web site at www.traciepeterson.com and her blog at www.writespassage.blogspot.com.
