About the Book

Author: Sharlene MacLaren
Genre: Christian Historical Romance (Civil War)

Release Date: Jan 9, 2018

Levi Albright rebelled against his Quaker roots to fight for abolition in the Union army in the first year of the Civil War. Two years later, 19-year-old destitute orphan Josephine Winters, with her chopped hair, boy’s clothes, and new name, “Snipp,” enlists in the Union army out of desperation.

Just over five feet tall and barely weighing as much as a newborn calf, Snipp seems to Levi to be barely old enough to hold “his” gun. But despite being teased by the regiment, Snipp quickly earns admiration for skill with a musket and unequaled bravery. When Levi explains one night that he is a Quaker leading a regiment, it leads to a late-night discussion of faith and a developing friendship.

But Snipp’s secret can only be hidden for so long. After an injury forces Josie to reveal her real identity, Levi is angered by her deception. Worse, Josie is marched out of the company without a chance to explain—or even say goodbye. Will their friendship survive? Or will the hatred saturating the war-torn nation affect even the heart of a peace-loving Quaker?

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My Thoughts
It’s been some time since I read a Sharlene MacLaren novel, so when I saw the chance to review this, I jumped on it. I wasn’t disappointed! I fell in love with Levi and his Quaker family and “Gordon Snipp” was a fun character to get to know! 

I loved the historical detail to the Civil War era. Ms. MacLaren chiseled the scenes well, and I felt like I was transported to the heart of the story, the center of the war. All the feelings that Josie, Gordon Snipp, felt, I felt. I loved the way Josie fought for what she felt was right. 

Levi’s sweet character….oh was he swoon worthy as the Chaplain of his company. I love the way his friendship with “Snipp” blossomed, and later, his love for a beautiful young woman. It was so fun watching them together. 

This story of hope, longing, deception and forgiveness is beautifully created. It’s 4 star worthy, and I will definitely recommend it to all! Ms. MacLaren brought to life the action of the war, the romance of two God-fearing characters and messages from God of understanding and trust. This is definitely a keeper on my shelf! 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

About the Author

Born and raised in western Michigan, Sharlene MacLaren graduated from Spring Arbor University then traveled nationally with a contemporary Christian vocal ensemble. She married Cecil, with whom she’d grown up in Spring Arbor, and the couple had two daughters. Shar embarked on a teaching career that would span over 30 years. As she contemplated retirement, Shar sought God’s guidance, praying for a vocation that would provide the kind of fulfillment and joy she experienced as a teacher and mother. A lifelong gifted story teller, she began to write Christian romance novels. Her first book, Through Every Storm, published in 2007, was met with critical acclaim and brisk sales. The rest, as they say, is history. Whitaker House’s bestselling fiction author, she’s subsequently published 18 books, mostly historical romances. Shar enjoys reading, singing in her church choir and worship team, traveling, and spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. She’s very interactive on Facebook and Twitter. For more: www.sharlenemaclaren.com, www.facebook.com/sharmaclaren, Twitter @ sharzy_lu.

Blog Stops

History, Mystery & Faith, January 25
Genesis 5020, January 25
Inspiration Clothesline, January 25
ASC Book Reviews, January 26
Multifarious, January 26
Christian Bookaholic, January 27
Remembrancy, January 27
Carpe Diem, January 28
Inklings and notions, January 28
Blossoms and Blessings, January 29
Reading Is My SuperPower, January 29
The Fizzy Pop Collection, January 30
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 30
Moments Dipped in Ink, January 31
Mary Hake, January 31
Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 31
Daysong Reflections, February 1
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, February 1
A Baker’s Perspective, February 1
Pause for Tales, February 2
Have A Wonderful Day, February 2
Connie’s History Classroom, February 3
Cafinated Reads, February 3
proud to be an autism mom, February 4
Bibliophile Reviews, February 4
Red Headed Book Lady, February 5
My Wrtier’s Life, February 5
Simple Harvest Reads, February 5 (Guest Post from Mindy Houg)
Pursuing Stacie, February 6
A Greater Yes, February 6
Texas Book-aholic, February 6
Bigreadersite, February 7
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 7
Janices book reviews, February 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Whitaker House is giving away:

Grand Prize Package: Their Daring Hearts (Forever Freedom Series) #2 by Sharlene MacLaren; Summer on Sunset Ridge (Forever Freedom Series #1) signed by the author, Sharlene MacLaren, Abba Jerusalem Hyssop 6” Pillar Candle.
1st Place: Their Daring Hearts (Forever Freedom Series) #2 by Sharlene MacLaren; Heart of Mercy (Tennessee Dreams #1) by Sharlene MacLaren; Whitaker House/Anchor Coloring Book with Colored Pencils.
2nd Place: Their Daring Hearts (Forever Freedom Series) #2 by Sharlene MacLaren; Whitaker House/Anchor Coloring Book with Colored Pencils.!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c602