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Heart of the Frontier #2
Beloved Hope
A Compelling Novel of Forgiveness and Hope from Leading Author Tracie Peterson
Hope Flanagan survived the massacre at the Whitman Mission, but at terrible personal cost. Safe now in Oregon City, she lives with her sisters, Grace and Mercy, and Grace's new husband, Alex. As she spends her days tending their flock of sheep, Hope's mind and soul are slowly healing. Yet, though she was once surrounded by suitors, she has no interest in giving her heart again after the man she loved died in her arms.
Hope's precarious new peace is shattered when those responsible for the massacre are captured and put on trial. She is asked to testify against them, but she's not sure she can bear to relive the events of those horrific days.
As Hope struggles to free herself from the pain of her past, Lance Kenner, an Army lieutenant, brings an unexpected ray of light into her life. But what will Lance think of her if he learns the truth behind her anguish? And what secrets lie in his past?
Hope Flanagan survived the massacre at the Whitman Mission, but at terrible personal cost. Safe now in Oregon City, she lives with her sisters, Grace and Mercy, and Grace's new husband, Alex. As she spends her days tending their flock of sheep, Hope's mind and soul are slowly healing. Yet, though she was once surrounded by suitors, she has no interest in giving her heart again after the man she loved died in her arms.
Hope's precarious new peace is shattered when those responsible for the massacre are captured and put on trial. She is asked to testify against them, but she's not sure she can bear to relive the events of those horrific days.
As Hope struggles to free herself from the pain of her past, Lance Kenner, an Army lieutenant, brings an unexpected ray of light into her life. But what will Lance think of her if he learns the truth behind her anguish? And what secrets lie in his past?
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 4, 2017
About the author
Tracie Peterson
222 books2,852 followersTracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.
pen name: Janelle Jamison
pen name: Janelle Jamison
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
November 16, 2019
Šī triloģija par māsām, kuras pārceļas uz dzīvi Mežonīgajos rietumos, kuros vēl ir aktuāli konflikti ar indiāņiem un dzīve nudien nav labiekārtota, ir patiešam brīnišķīgs nejaušais atklājums.
Zināju, ka Houpas grāmata man liksies ļoti interesanta, jo viņai ir jātiek galā ar nudien sarežģītām lietām (pirmajā grāmatā indiāņi viņas acu priekšā nogalināja pirmo mīlestību, viņu pašu vairākkārt izvaroja, kā rezultātā viņa dzemdēja bērnu, kuru atdeva audzināt citiem). Viņas tēls nudien ir izstrādāts un viņas dziedināšana neliekas neloģiska un pēkšņa: pamazām, pamazām... Protams, ka šī ir kristīgā lubene, tāpēc nekristietitm tās dziedināšanas ticībā va būt par daudz, bet man patiešām leikas, ka šī ir laba grāmata gan kristīgajā, gan sekulārajā plaknē.
Jaunākās māsas grāmatu gan gribu, gan negribu lasīt, jo viņa likās tāda pārāk pareiza. Taču tā kā autorei ir izdevušās jau 2 izcilas sava žanra grāmatas, cerība, ka varbūt tomēr būs laba un ne pārāk moralizējoša manai gaumei tomēr ir.
Zināju, ka Houpas grāmata man liksies ļoti interesanta, jo viņai ir jātiek galā ar nudien sarežģītām lietām (pirmajā grāmatā indiāņi viņas acu priekšā nogalināja pirmo mīlestību, viņu pašu vairākkārt izvaroja, kā rezultātā viņa dzemdēja bērnu, kuru atdeva audzināt citiem). Viņas tēls nudien ir izstrādāts un viņas dziedināšana neliekas neloģiska un pēkšņa: pamazām, pamazām... Protams, ka šī ir kristīgā lubene, tāpēc nekristietitm tās dziedināšanas ticībā va būt par daudz, bet man patiešām leikas, ka šī ir laba grāmata gan kristīgajā, gan sekulārajā plaknē.
Jaunākās māsas grāmatu gan gribu, gan negribu lasīt, jo viņa likās tāda pārāk pareiza. Taču tā kā autorei ir izdevušās jau 2 izcilas sava žanra grāmatas, cerība, ka varbūt tomēr būs laba un ne pārāk moralizējoša manai gaumei tomēr ir.
July 31, 2018
Wow! It is hard to find the words to express the emotions that I am feeling at the end of this book. Tracie Peterson has taken a difficult subject and left me with a feeling of peace. The first book in the series was hard to read, the characters suffered at the hands of others. It was a book of understanding. This book is one of healing.
The book starts as Hope is asked to testify against the men responsible for the Whitman Massacre. The range of her emotions is understandable and reasonable. It is hard not to hate the man who repeatedly raped you and killed the man you love. Army Lieutenant Lance Kenner keeps her from making a mistake that would effect the rest of her life.
The romance starts slowly. They are friends. I loved that it wasn't rushed, part of that was Hope's need to heal and come to terms with her past. Lance is understanding, sympathetic, and very good for her.
Hope has an excellent support system. The bond between the sisters has grown stronger and they truly love each other. It would be nice if everyone who had gone through trauma had sisters like Grace and Mercy.
I feel as if Tracie Peterson was able to establish the feelings between the white man and the Native American in a fair way. Tensions were high in the Oregon Territory in the 1840's. The white man encroached on Indian territory and threatened their way of life. Both sides of the dispute are presented. This story is from the view point of a white settler victim, but some of the characters have Native American friends. I felt compassion for all of the people in the story.
This story has a strong Christian theme. Hope is learning to have a better relationship with God and to trust Him as she struggles with her fear and hatred. I love how this was presented. There is so much hope and forgiveness in this book. It is inspiring.
The book does have some violence and the mention of rape in the past.
Source: I receive a complimentary copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
The book starts as Hope is asked to testify against the men responsible for the Whitman Massacre. The range of her emotions is understandable and reasonable. It is hard not to hate the man who repeatedly raped you and killed the man you love. Army Lieutenant Lance Kenner keeps her from making a mistake that would effect the rest of her life.
The romance starts slowly. They are friends. I loved that it wasn't rushed, part of that was Hope's need to heal and come to terms with her past. Lance is understanding, sympathetic, and very good for her.
Hope has an excellent support system. The bond between the sisters has grown stronger and they truly love each other. It would be nice if everyone who had gone through trauma had sisters like Grace and Mercy.
I feel as if Tracie Peterson was able to establish the feelings between the white man and the Native American in a fair way. Tensions were high in the Oregon Territory in the 1840's. The white man encroached on Indian territory and threatened their way of life. Both sides of the dispute are presented. This story is from the view point of a white settler victim, but some of the characters have Native American friends. I felt compassion for all of the people in the story.
This story has a strong Christian theme. Hope is learning to have a better relationship with God and to trust Him as she struggles with her fear and hatred. I love how this was presented. There is so much hope and forgiveness in this book. It is inspiring.
The book does have some violence and the mention of rape in the past.
Source: I receive a complimentary copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 2, 2020
This story perfectly followed up Treasured Grace in the Heart of the Frontier trilogy. The consequences and after-effects of the heinous crimes in book one were on display in book two. In the midst of these consequences was a ray of hope that included compassion, mercy, and forgiveness, which beautifully expressed God’s love for us. I am loving the rich faith in these books, and I’m sad the trilogy is coming to a close after the next story. Hope’s journey was just as beautiful and emotional as I expected. It’s the romance she deserved after what she went through in the previous installment. I’m glad I guzzled this one in a single day, but I’ll be sure to take my time next go-round, to catch even more details.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley, but I read a paperback while listening to the audio version. This review is my honest thoughts.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley, but I read a paperback while listening to the audio version. This review is my honest thoughts.
June 28, 2017
This being the second in the series you definitely want to make sure to read the one prior so you can understand the full scope of the story, heartache, strength, loss and everything in between that Peterson is throwing at her readers upon the pages of this emotionally powerful piece of Christian Fiction.
Hope Flanagan is the kind of woman that if I lived back in those times (thank GOD I don’t because me without WIFI and Starbucks is not pretty) would hope to befriend. She’s that person who will help keep you strong, fight challenges with a quiet yet ferocious tenacity, and use her head to survive another day. She’s the epitome of strength on the frontier. At the same time as we see when this story picks up, Hope has faced some truly terrible and deep heartbreak that is enough to shatter any one. We find ourselves shedding tears as she goes through the grieving process, cheering her on as she begins to heal, and wanting to hug her to make sure she knows she’s not alone.
I love how Peterson writes characters that feel as if they could be your real friends, you can’t help but become emotionally invested in her stories. One of the other things I like about reading her books is that even though they are fiction she does a great job tending to details so you become transported back to a much harsher time period. You can practically feel the dust get kicked up on your legs from the unpaved roads, the sweat fall down your skin from the lack of A/C – then again I’m reading this in Texas during the summer so some of that could actually be from the environment around me lol.
Even when she begins to throw a bit of possible romance in, the storyline is done with respect to Hope’s grieving process so it feels real instead of like okay one day she’s sad but she met this hot guy so he has completely won her over and healed her heart just with a snap of his fingers. Thankfully you can count on Peterson to create a decent story instead of one you want to roll your eyes at.
Hope Flanagan is the kind of woman that if I lived back in those times (thank GOD I don’t because me without WIFI and Starbucks is not pretty) would hope to befriend. She’s that person who will help keep you strong, fight challenges with a quiet yet ferocious tenacity, and use her head to survive another day. She’s the epitome of strength on the frontier. At the same time as we see when this story picks up, Hope has faced some truly terrible and deep heartbreak that is enough to shatter any one. We find ourselves shedding tears as she goes through the grieving process, cheering her on as she begins to heal, and wanting to hug her to make sure she knows she’s not alone.
I love how Peterson writes characters that feel as if they could be your real friends, you can’t help but become emotionally invested in her stories. One of the other things I like about reading her books is that even though they are fiction she does a great job tending to details so you become transported back to a much harsher time period. You can practically feel the dust get kicked up on your legs from the unpaved roads, the sweat fall down your skin from the lack of A/C – then again I’m reading this in Texas during the summer so some of that could actually be from the environment around me lol.
Even when she begins to throw a bit of possible romance in, the storyline is done with respect to Hope’s grieving process so it feels real instead of like okay one day she’s sad but she met this hot guy so he has completely won her over and healed her heart just with a snap of his fingers. Thankfully you can count on Peterson to create a decent story instead of one you want to roll your eyes at.
January 17, 2019
5 Stars
Hope Flannagan has went through much in her young life she lived through a massacre at the fort she and her sisters were staying at, she lived through being held hostage, being violated and giving birth to her captures child. Now she’s facing the trial of her captor and others. Thinking of the child she gave up to family friends. She is scared and bitter but can she let it go ever?
Lance Kenner became a solider after he lost his father and he struggles with his own past and the horrors he’s been though losing one family member after another. Just as Lance is about to leave the army for civilian life he meets Hope but can either of them find love through the bitterness, and what happens when it is realized their lives are even closer tied then either ever expected.
I loved this book I read it almost all in one setting. yes some of it was hard to read all the heartache that both characters went though, it isn’t a book for the faint of heart that is for sure but the characters are so rich, it’s like being in the book with them. The love they share even through the pain has you rooting for all of them from the go. I love the sisters and I love Uncle Edward. The younger sister Mercy’s storyline was so so but I understand why it was set up for her book next.
This is the second book in a set of three and I will pick up one and three in a heartbeat. I love Tracie’s books and this one did not disappoint.
edit
Since writing this I have read the first book and reread this book. I still agree with everything I said here and am now off to reread the third book.
Hope Flannagan has went through much in her young life she lived through a massacre at the fort she and her sisters were staying at, she lived through being held hostage, being violated and giving birth to her captures child. Now she’s facing the trial of her captor and others. Thinking of the child she gave up to family friends. She is scared and bitter but can she let it go ever?
Lance Kenner became a solider after he lost his father and he struggles with his own past and the horrors he’s been though losing one family member after another. Just as Lance is about to leave the army for civilian life he meets Hope but can either of them find love through the bitterness, and what happens when it is realized their lives are even closer tied then either ever expected.
I loved this book I read it almost all in one setting. yes some of it was hard to read all the heartache that both characters went though, it isn’t a book for the faint of heart that is for sure but the characters are so rich, it’s like being in the book with them. The love they share even through the pain has you rooting for all of them from the go. I love the sisters and I love Uncle Edward. The younger sister Mercy’s storyline was so so but I understand why it was set up for her book next.
This is the second book in a set of three and I will pick up one and three in a heartbeat. I love Tracie’s books and this one did not disappoint.
edit
Since writing this I have read the first book and reread this book. I still agree with everything I said here and am now off to reread the third book.
June 18, 2018
Tracie knows how to stomp all over your heart and then make you feel good about it! I LOVE how she wrapped up Hope's story!
June 30, 2017
A man can't live without hope. Nor can a woman and in Beloved Hope by Tracie Peterson, Hope Flanagan comes face to face with her past she longed to forget that happened two years ago. The Whitman Massacre had led to the deaths of more than just Dr. Whitman and his wife, but also the only man Hope wanted to marry and loved with all her heart. Watching him being killed in front of her while she watched the life seep out of him was hard for her, but not before being taken captive by the Cayuse Indians who staged this. She was raped and left with an unborn child of the man who had taken more than just her innocence. She wanted nothing more out of life including her own. But after giving birth and placing that child into the hands of a couple who wanted a baby, Hope could not seem to find her way back to any normal sense of life. Even two years later, she built up such a wall around her, that all she wanted was to be left alone and far away from friends or even finding another man to love.
Now that she has been asked to testify in the trial of the five Cayuse Indians responsible for the murders of those at the Whitman Mission, she knows she can never let the possibility of the one man who took more than just her life away, walk away if they found him not guilty. In fact there was fear of that in light of those in the US government who wanted to grant peace between the white men and the Indians, even if it meant letting them go free. Hope was going to make sure the last thing this Indian did was to walk free. Perhaps that is why she managed to sneak past the armed guards and found her way into the jail cell that held the man who had taken everything from her. Now she was going to ensure he never lived another day, when she pulled the gun from her pocket. She just needed to find a way to pull the trigger and then it would all be over.
Lieutenant Lance Kenner wasn't about to let Hope make a mistake and when he saw her holding the gun on one of his prisoners, he assured her that this man's life wasn't worth her time. He knew that her and most of the women in Oregon City were trying to come to terms with what had happened and Hope was so sure that no man would want her ever again. But Lance Kenner was not like the men she had met before. Being from New Orleans and having lost his own family, all he was looking for when he met Hope was simply a friend to help get him through this trial so he could be done with serving his time and get back to running the plantation his family had left him. But it seems that they both might just need the right friend in order to gain more than just their hope back, but also to learn to trust God and understand that forgiveness isn't about letting someone off the hook, it's about letting go of the hurt they have caused you that you continue to carry with you every single day.
I received Beloved Hope by Tracie Peterson compliments of Baker Publishing Group and Net Galley. This is the second novel in the Heart of the Frontier Series which picks up two years later after the Whitman Massacre that Treasured Grace covered in the first novel. I can't imagine how difficult it would be to face your accusers and I understood the feelings of hatred and anger that Hope must have felt. You would hope there would be a release of those feelings once the guilty have been punished but as most of us know, it doesn't happen like we would want to believe it would. Unless we choose to let go of those past feelings and let God handle it, we will continue to drag around that chain until it grows too heavy for us and life simply continues to pass us by. I give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars and can't wait for the third novel that must revolve around Mercy's life, the youngest of the Flanagan sisters.
Now that she has been asked to testify in the trial of the five Cayuse Indians responsible for the murders of those at the Whitman Mission, she knows she can never let the possibility of the one man who took more than just her life away, walk away if they found him not guilty. In fact there was fear of that in light of those in the US government who wanted to grant peace between the white men and the Indians, even if it meant letting them go free. Hope was going to make sure the last thing this Indian did was to walk free. Perhaps that is why she managed to sneak past the armed guards and found her way into the jail cell that held the man who had taken everything from her. Now she was going to ensure he never lived another day, when she pulled the gun from her pocket. She just needed to find a way to pull the trigger and then it would all be over.
Lieutenant Lance Kenner wasn't about to let Hope make a mistake and when he saw her holding the gun on one of his prisoners, he assured her that this man's life wasn't worth her time. He knew that her and most of the women in Oregon City were trying to come to terms with what had happened and Hope was so sure that no man would want her ever again. But Lance Kenner was not like the men she had met before. Being from New Orleans and having lost his own family, all he was looking for when he met Hope was simply a friend to help get him through this trial so he could be done with serving his time and get back to running the plantation his family had left him. But it seems that they both might just need the right friend in order to gain more than just their hope back, but also to learn to trust God and understand that forgiveness isn't about letting someone off the hook, it's about letting go of the hurt they have caused you that you continue to carry with you every single day.
I received Beloved Hope by Tracie Peterson compliments of Baker Publishing Group and Net Galley. This is the second novel in the Heart of the Frontier Series which picks up two years later after the Whitman Massacre that Treasured Grace covered in the first novel. I can't imagine how difficult it would be to face your accusers and I understood the feelings of hatred and anger that Hope must have felt. You would hope there would be a release of those feelings once the guilty have been punished but as most of us know, it doesn't happen like we would want to believe it would. Unless we choose to let go of those past feelings and let God handle it, we will continue to drag around that chain until it grows too heavy for us and life simply continues to pass us by. I give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars and can't wait for the third novel that must revolve around Mercy's life, the youngest of the Flanagan sisters.
September 1, 2017
This was Book 2 in the Heart of the Frontier series. Loved this book. Glad that rape and assault were focal points. Should not be hidden in the closet.
Looking forward to the release of Book 3. Most likely will have to wait for awhile.
Looking forward to the release of Book 3. Most likely will have to wait for awhile.
August 18, 2017
"Hypeness" Rating: 5.0
Book received through the Bethany house in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
Hope Flanagan survived the massacre at the Whitman Mission, but at terrible personal cost. Safe now in Oregon City, she lives with her sisters, Grace and Mercy, and Grace's new husband, Alex. As she spends her days tending their flock of sheep, Hope's mind and soul are slowly healing. Yet, though she was once surrounded by suitors, she has no interest in giving her heart again after the man she loved died in her arms.
Hope's precarious new peace is shattered when those responsible for the massacre are captured and put on trial. She is asked to testify against them, but she's not sure she can bear to relive the events of those horrific days.
As Hope struggles to free herself from the pain of her past, Lance Kenner, an Army lieutenant, brings an unexpected ray of light into her life. But what will Lance think of her if he learns the truth behind her anguish? And what secrets lie in his past?
My Review:
In the second book of the Heart of the Frontier series, we learn that Hope Flanagan has survived the Whitman Mission. Unfortunately, like all things in life it cam at a great cost. She lost someone dear to her and paid a price that runs deeper than anyone can imagine. The aftermath of this event has Hope torn and sure that no man can be trusted again. Afraid of what happened to her, she decides to stay with her younger sister, Mercy, and with her older sister and her husband, Grace and Alex. To keep her mind off of that horrible event, she takes care of the sheep they have. In the middle of recovering from the past, Hope is asked to testify against the Cayuse, who were responsible for the massacre. She doesn't think she will be able to will herself to tell her side of the story but she doesn't want the attackers to be released either. Just like every historical fiction book, a person comes to the rescue and provides some sunshine and hope, of course, into her life. Lance Kenner, an Army lieutenant, is assigned to work at a jail where the attackers are being held until the trial is over. Lance in hoping to leave the army and go back home to New Orleans. When he meets Hope, things may just turn around for him as both of them help each other recover from their past... but they both have dark secrets that lie behind them. They must either let those events drag them down or help them become stronger. This book was quite surprising for me! Hope was a fascinating character to follow. Though she had her ups and downs throughout the book, by no means was she a weak character. Despite her past, she handled her emotions quite well. Lance tied the book up and played a big part in Hope's life. Lance supported Hope throughout the book and gave her the space she needed to recover. Hope's sisters were very dear and did whatever they could;d to help their sister. Grace, Hope's older sister, always assisted her younger sister at any cost and at any time. Mercy, Hope's younger sister, was the wise one in the household. Though Hope didn't bother to listen all that closely to Mercy's advice, Mercy was always giving her insight in every situation. Even though Mercy was young, people didn't bother to listen to her. I didn't read the first book in the series but I was able to easily understand what was happening in the book. I really recommend people to give this book a go. The next book in this series follows Mercy. I cannot wait to read it and I would like to thank Ms.Peterson for writing such a fantastic book. Thank you once more to the Bethany House for providing me a copy of this book!
Book received through the Bethany house in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
Hope Flanagan survived the massacre at the Whitman Mission, but at terrible personal cost. Safe now in Oregon City, she lives with her sisters, Grace and Mercy, and Grace's new husband, Alex. As she spends her days tending their flock of sheep, Hope's mind and soul are slowly healing. Yet, though she was once surrounded by suitors, she has no interest in giving her heart again after the man she loved died in her arms.
Hope's precarious new peace is shattered when those responsible for the massacre are captured and put on trial. She is asked to testify against them, but she's not sure she can bear to relive the events of those horrific days.
As Hope struggles to free herself from the pain of her past, Lance Kenner, an Army lieutenant, brings an unexpected ray of light into her life. But what will Lance think of her if he learns the truth behind her anguish? And what secrets lie in his past?
My Review:
In the second book of the Heart of the Frontier series, we learn that Hope Flanagan has survived the Whitman Mission. Unfortunately, like all things in life it cam at a great cost. She lost someone dear to her and paid a price that runs deeper than anyone can imagine. The aftermath of this event has Hope torn and sure that no man can be trusted again. Afraid of what happened to her, she decides to stay with her younger sister, Mercy, and with her older sister and her husband, Grace and Alex. To keep her mind off of that horrible event, she takes care of the sheep they have. In the middle of recovering from the past, Hope is asked to testify against the Cayuse, who were responsible for the massacre. She doesn't think she will be able to will herself to tell her side of the story but she doesn't want the attackers to be released either. Just like every historical fiction book, a person comes to the rescue and provides some sunshine and hope, of course, into her life. Lance Kenner, an Army lieutenant, is assigned to work at a jail where the attackers are being held until the trial is over. Lance in hoping to leave the army and go back home to New Orleans. When he meets Hope, things may just turn around for him as both of them help each other recover from their past... but they both have dark secrets that lie behind them. They must either let those events drag them down or help them become stronger. This book was quite surprising for me! Hope was a fascinating character to follow. Though she had her ups and downs throughout the book, by no means was she a weak character. Despite her past, she handled her emotions quite well. Lance tied the book up and played a big part in Hope's life. Lance supported Hope throughout the book and gave her the space she needed to recover. Hope's sisters were very dear and did whatever they could;d to help their sister. Grace, Hope's older sister, always assisted her younger sister at any cost and at any time. Mercy, Hope's younger sister, was the wise one in the household. Though Hope didn't bother to listen all that closely to Mercy's advice, Mercy was always giving her insight in every situation. Even though Mercy was young, people didn't bother to listen to her. I didn't read the first book in the series but I was able to easily understand what was happening in the book. I really recommend people to give this book a go. The next book in this series follows Mercy. I cannot wait to read it and I would like to thank Ms.Peterson for writing such a fantastic book. Thank you once more to the Bethany House for providing me a copy of this book!
July 5, 2017
See Full Review at: www.joyofreadingweb.wordpress.com
After serving the Massacre at the Whitman Mission, Hope Flanagan has withdrawn from everyone but her immediate family. She prefers to spend time with the sheep and taking care of their wool. Hope has even withdrawn from God and struggles to understand how a loving God could have let something so awful happen to His children. Over time she begins to understand that it isn’t so much that God let bad things happen, but the freedom of choice that we all have, and sin itself has a negative effect on everything on this earth.
Lance Kenner has one assignment to finish and then his tour with the Army will be over. He is to guard the Native American prisoners until after their court hearing. Lance has plans to return to his family Plantation in New Orleans. One afternoon after the court hearing Lance is surprised to find a women holding a gun on one of the prisoners. He finds himself drawn to Hope and convinces her that he needs a friend.
I enjoyed the plot line and found the characters to be believable and realistic. The sweet romance in the story is slow, which is fitting for a character who had gone through a traumatic event. I did find the story a little slow at times. It could be due to the fact that I had not read the first book in this series. I would suggest that anyone picking up this book, be sure to read Treasured Grace (the first book). I’ve read other books by Tracie Peterson and feel that other fans of her writing will also enjoy reading Beloved Hope.
(I received a complimentary digital copy of this book for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
After serving the Massacre at the Whitman Mission, Hope Flanagan has withdrawn from everyone but her immediate family. She prefers to spend time with the sheep and taking care of their wool. Hope has even withdrawn from God and struggles to understand how a loving God could have let something so awful happen to His children. Over time she begins to understand that it isn’t so much that God let bad things happen, but the freedom of choice that we all have, and sin itself has a negative effect on everything on this earth.
Lance Kenner has one assignment to finish and then his tour with the Army will be over. He is to guard the Native American prisoners until after their court hearing. Lance has plans to return to his family Plantation in New Orleans. One afternoon after the court hearing Lance is surprised to find a women holding a gun on one of the prisoners. He finds himself drawn to Hope and convinces her that he needs a friend.
I enjoyed the plot line and found the characters to be believable and realistic. The sweet romance in the story is slow, which is fitting for a character who had gone through a traumatic event. I did find the story a little slow at times. It could be due to the fact that I had not read the first book in this series. I would suggest that anyone picking up this book, be sure to read Treasured Grace (the first book). I’ve read other books by Tracie Peterson and feel that other fans of her writing will also enjoy reading Beloved Hope.
(I received a complimentary digital copy of this book for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
August 7, 2017
The second book in the “Heart of the Frontier” series follows, Hope, the middle Flanagan sister. In the first book we saw how the attack on the mission she was in by a group of Indians affected her older sister, Grace.
Hope must heal in order to move forward in her life but she has to learn how. Enter, Lance, someone who also must learn to heal after having learn to hate for so long. How the stories and lives of the characters intertwine is remarkable. The power of forgiveness goes a long way not only in this fictional story based on some true events but also in reality.
I love how Ms. Peterson shows us the importance of forgiveness and how it really doesn’t hurt the one you hold a grudge against but it actually hurts you. I really enjoy reading books by Tracie Peterson. And I really enjoy reading fictional books that also have a back drop of real historical events.
Tracie has a way of intertwining the real with fiction in a way you don’t really know where one stops and the other begins. It flows well with each other. I am anxiously awaiting the third book in the series which will follow, Mercy, the youngest of the Flanagan sisters.
Hope must heal in order to move forward in her life but she has to learn how. Enter, Lance, someone who also must learn to heal after having learn to hate for so long. How the stories and lives of the characters intertwine is remarkable. The power of forgiveness goes a long way not only in this fictional story based on some true events but also in reality.
I love how Ms. Peterson shows us the importance of forgiveness and how it really doesn’t hurt the one you hold a grudge against but it actually hurts you. I really enjoy reading books by Tracie Peterson. And I really enjoy reading fictional books that also have a back drop of real historical events.
Tracie has a way of intertwining the real with fiction in a way you don’t really know where one stops and the other begins. It flows well with each other. I am anxiously awaiting the third book in the series which will follow, Mercy, the youngest of the Flanagan sisters.
October 2, 2017
First sentence: "You can't be serious," Hope Flanagan looked at the man who sat opposite her at her sister and brother-in-law's kitchen table. "You expect me to testify in the Cayuse trial."
Premise/plot: Beloved Hope is the second book in the Heart of the Frontier trilogy by Tracie Peterson. This historical fiction series is set in the Oregon Territory in 1850. In the first book, readers met three sisters: Grace, Hope, and Mercy. Hope and Mercy were at the Whitman Mission when the massacre occurred. (Grace, a doctor/healer, was not there.) Hope suffered greatly at the hands of her captors; she was raped and gave birth to a child whom she gave up for adoption. In the second book, Hope has been called upon to testify at the trial. In the weeks leading up to the trial, she meets a young soldier, Lance Kenner. Their meeting is quite dramatic. But over months the two settle down into a very comfortable friendship. But will they remain just friends?
My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I am not sure I loved it as much as I loved the first book, but, Hope was a difficult heroine to get to know. She survived a traumatic event, has been haunted by it for several years. The book is definitely a solidly good read. I look forward to reading the third book about the third sister, Mercy.
Premise/plot: Beloved Hope is the second book in the Heart of the Frontier trilogy by Tracie Peterson. This historical fiction series is set in the Oregon Territory in 1850. In the first book, readers met three sisters: Grace, Hope, and Mercy. Hope and Mercy were at the Whitman Mission when the massacre occurred. (Grace, a doctor/healer, was not there.) Hope suffered greatly at the hands of her captors; she was raped and gave birth to a child whom she gave up for adoption. In the second book, Hope has been called upon to testify at the trial. In the weeks leading up to the trial, she meets a young soldier, Lance Kenner. Their meeting is quite dramatic. But over months the two settle down into a very comfortable friendship. But will they remain just friends?
My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I am not sure I loved it as much as I loved the first book, but, Hope was a difficult heroine to get to know. She survived a traumatic event, has been haunted by it for several years. The book is definitely a solidly good read. I look forward to reading the third book about the third sister, Mercy.
September 18, 2017
This was such a powerful story. I couldn't imagine living with all that Hope endured. The truth is, she wasn't really living. She was full of sadness, hate and revenge-like feelings. To be honest, I'm glad the author chose to portray her in this manner, as I felt it made me connect with her character easier. Who's to say if we were in a similar situation that we wouldn't feel the same?
But then, there's that voice inside our head telling us to forgive, let go and move on. In this story, that voice belonged to sweet Mercy. I really enjoyed her character. She was so full of wisdom, certainly beyond her years in maturity. She quoted scripture so naturally and made no excuse for it. As much as Hope endured through the book, and was obviously the focus of the book, I really felt like Marcy was the star.
While this book touches on some difficult topics that some readers may struggle with, I will say that it was done very tasteful. It was not too descriptive or offensive at all. Truth be told, these occurrences provided the necessary background to see how difficult things really were, as well as allow for us as readers to see just how much the characters really grew.
This book provides hope, and reminds us of our need for forgiveness. It is a must read!! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
But then, there's that voice inside our head telling us to forgive, let go and move on. In this story, that voice belonged to sweet Mercy. I really enjoyed her character. She was so full of wisdom, certainly beyond her years in maturity. She quoted scripture so naturally and made no excuse for it. As much as Hope endured through the book, and was obviously the focus of the book, I really felt like Marcy was the star.
While this book touches on some difficult topics that some readers may struggle with, I will say that it was done very tasteful. It was not too descriptive or offensive at all. Truth be told, these occurrences provided the necessary background to see how difficult things really were, as well as allow for us as readers to see just how much the characters really grew.
This book provides hope, and reminds us of our need for forgiveness. It is a must read!! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 24, 2023
Deel twee van deze serie gaat over Hope Flanigan. Samen met haar twee zussen is zij naar Orgeon Country gekomen en heeft ze hele heftige gebeurtenissen meegemaakt. Hierdoor is Hope getekend en verbitterd geraakt en ze houdt zich voor om zichzelf in het vervolg zo goed mogelijk te beschermen tegen elk verdriet of gevaar. Als haar dan ook wordt gevraagd te getuigen in een rechtzaak, zet dit haar leven behoorlijk op z'n kop. Oude wonden worden hiermee open gehaald en hier heeft Hope ontzettend veel moeite mee. Langzaam aan leert ze te Hopen op God en haar kracht en wijsheid daar te zoeken. Dit boek is indrukwekkend en sluit mooi aan op het vorige deel.
July 1, 2017
[Note: This book was provided free of charge by Bethany House. All thoughts and opinions are my own.]
Although I do not read many romance novels in the course of my voluminous devouring of volumes of material, from time to time romance novels do cross my path, and this is the second one by the author that has done so [1]. Given the generally high quality of romance novels that I read, I have to admit that this is the second time I have been disappointed by a Tracie Peterson novel. Simply because someone has written dozens of novels does not mean that their novelists are pleasant even to audiences that might be receptive to historical romances, in this case dealing with the Pacific Northwest in the area in and around Oregon City. This is, it should be noted, an area I know well, and this novel, like the preceding one, hit close to home. Perhaps it hit a little too close to home, as this novel features a sympathetic heroine in the PTSD-afflicted Hope, and her mysterious and decent and reluctant beau. Although the couple themselves worked out well, I just did not really enjoy this novel. The framing of the story and most of all, the heavy-handedness of it, kept me from getting in the story, as I kept on getting pulled out of it my my irritation with the author.
At its heart, this is a novel about divine providence. It features three orphaned sisters, who are adapting to life in Oregon City in the 1850's. The novel is set after the previous one, when the resumption of peace has led to some of the Cayuse to be tried for the crimes of rape and murder in the sack of the Whitman mansion. Hope, as a survivor of rape from one of the accused, is asked to try and finds herself unable to. Much of the novel deliberately keeps the hero and heroine apart, and forces characters to wrestle with honesty and moral courage before the inevitable ending. All of the barriers to happiness in this novel--Hope's PTSD, Grace's pregnancy and struggle with cholera, Alex's wounds from a bear attack, and so on--seem rather contrived, which is a fatal mistake in a novel that depends a great deal on the reader putting up with the most dramatic events being "off-screen," as it were. The dramatic events of the book are not shown, but told, and when they are told in such a heavy-handed way that serves the agenda of the author and not the pleasure of the reader, a great deal of the enjoyment of reading a novel is lost. If I wanted to read a narrow-minded examination on divine providence or theodicy, there are any number of books I could read, some of which I already have given my own personal struggles with the aftermath of trauma. I expect novels to be written with more grace and tact, and the author was not up to the task here.
During the novel, there are numerous occasions where characters are given the chance to avenge themselves on those who are tormenting them, and respond with a great deal of restraint. Unfortunately, even those readers who have a strong belief in divine providence will find the conflation between divine providence and authorial providence to be off-putting and irritating. At least I did. All of the action of this novel made it at least possible that there will be a third novel set in a couple of years after this one where Oregon is on the verge of statehood where Mercy, the annoying but bright third child, finds a suitable husband for herself after dealing graciously with a land-hungry and overly persistent would-be young lover here. Perhaps at least a bit of my frustration at this book is at the disconnect between the author's providence for her schizoid PTSD heroine and the distinct lack of providence in my own life. It is hard for me to cheer on the romantic bliss of someone who stands on ground very close to my own when I look at my own state. Novels should not be written to mock their readers, but rather to encourage, and this novel just does not satisfy this reader, even if it has many pieces that would make a good novel in more talented and compassionate hands.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
Although I do not read many romance novels in the course of my voluminous devouring of volumes of material, from time to time romance novels do cross my path, and this is the second one by the author that has done so [1]. Given the generally high quality of romance novels that I read, I have to admit that this is the second time I have been disappointed by a Tracie Peterson novel. Simply because someone has written dozens of novels does not mean that their novelists are pleasant even to audiences that might be receptive to historical romances, in this case dealing with the Pacific Northwest in the area in and around Oregon City. This is, it should be noted, an area I know well, and this novel, like the preceding one, hit close to home. Perhaps it hit a little too close to home, as this novel features a sympathetic heroine in the PTSD-afflicted Hope, and her mysterious and decent and reluctant beau. Although the couple themselves worked out well, I just did not really enjoy this novel. The framing of the story and most of all, the heavy-handedness of it, kept me from getting in the story, as I kept on getting pulled out of it my my irritation with the author.
At its heart, this is a novel about divine providence. It features three orphaned sisters, who are adapting to life in Oregon City in the 1850's. The novel is set after the previous one, when the resumption of peace has led to some of the Cayuse to be tried for the crimes of rape and murder in the sack of the Whitman mansion. Hope, as a survivor of rape from one of the accused, is asked to try and finds herself unable to. Much of the novel deliberately keeps the hero and heroine apart, and forces characters to wrestle with honesty and moral courage before the inevitable ending. All of the barriers to happiness in this novel--Hope's PTSD, Grace's pregnancy and struggle with cholera, Alex's wounds from a bear attack, and so on--seem rather contrived, which is a fatal mistake in a novel that depends a great deal on the reader putting up with the most dramatic events being "off-screen," as it were. The dramatic events of the book are not shown, but told, and when they are told in such a heavy-handed way that serves the agenda of the author and not the pleasure of the reader, a great deal of the enjoyment of reading a novel is lost. If I wanted to read a narrow-minded examination on divine providence or theodicy, there are any number of books I could read, some of which I already have given my own personal struggles with the aftermath of trauma. I expect novels to be written with more grace and tact, and the author was not up to the task here.
During the novel, there are numerous occasions where characters are given the chance to avenge themselves on those who are tormenting them, and respond with a great deal of restraint. Unfortunately, even those readers who have a strong belief in divine providence will find the conflation between divine providence and authorial providence to be off-putting and irritating. At least I did. All of the action of this novel made it at least possible that there will be a third novel set in a couple of years after this one where Oregon is on the verge of statehood where Mercy, the annoying but bright third child, finds a suitable husband for herself after dealing graciously with a land-hungry and overly persistent would-be young lover here. Perhaps at least a bit of my frustration at this book is at the disconnect between the author's providence for her schizoid PTSD heroine and the distinct lack of providence in my own life. It is hard for me to cheer on the romantic bliss of someone who stands on ground very close to my own when I look at my own state. Novels should not be written to mock their readers, but rather to encourage, and this novel just does not satisfy this reader, even if it has many pieces that would make a good novel in more talented and compassionate hands.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
November 2, 2017
This was the second book in this series about the massacre at the
Whitman Mission and the people who survived. The main character is Hope
and her sisters Grace and Mercy. Hope struggles to overcome the past
and searches for healing and love with all that happened to her. This is
a warm and tender tale set in the wilderness of Oregon. An enjoyable light
read with history of that period.
Whitman Mission and the people who survived. The main character is Hope
and her sisters Grace and Mercy. Hope struggles to overcome the past
and searches for healing and love with all that happened to her. This is
a warm and tender tale set in the wilderness of Oregon. An enjoyable light
read with history of that period.
March 1, 2020
Loved this second book in the series. It was well written and I loved the characters and the Inspirational theme. I'm excited to begin reading the next book in this series.
September 20, 2021
There’s some cheesiness involved, but I actually really love the faith-based relational aspects of these books.
July 31, 2017
I love this sequel!
I am absolutely in love with this series so far. I love the prairie setting and the characters. I was happy to see that Tracie also included characters from Treasured Grace (and they were a pretty big part of it, in fact!).
To me this story is filled with journeys.
Hope’s journey, Grace’s continuing journey, Mercy’s journey (I loved how we get a view of her before her story comes out!), Lance’s journey, etc.
When I was done I had a moment of WOW. We went from anger, pain, misery, bitterness–to sweet, loving, trusting in God. This is so amazing. But let’s get a little specific here…
Hope is a lovely character
In the first book we see her as somewhat fickle and flighty. With her string of suitors and her flirtatious mannerisms. But wow! Character development, people.
She’s gone through a lot (read the other book for that) and it shows. I am glad I got to peek into her story as I identified more with her than Grace 😉 .
Re-visitation of old characters
I love when people use their old characters. It’s not so much reusing them as revisiting them. Alex, Grace, Mercy, and other characters return.
Intro to Mercy
Mercy is the sister who seeks education. You have Grace–the healer, Hope the romantic, and now Mercy the learner. I fully expect her to find someone when she goes for school but…for now she’s single. 😉 She’s also very young at the moment. (but prairie days were different)
One thing I like about her is how she doesn’t just go with the flow and marry one of those random proposal guys. (there’s a shortage of woman and plenty of men who need-want wives 😆 .) There are several jerks where they live btw so expect it.
She has dreams of her own, and yet she’s willing to conform her dreams to God’s will. Can’t wait for Cherished Mercy.
And then there’s Lance…
I wasn’t expecting much of a link with the main dude and the first book, so I was surprised when one occurred. This story is told in about the same perspective style as Treasured Grace. It switches from Hope to Lance on a regular basis.
I love the development between Lance and Alex. I am not going to spoil anything that the synopsis wouldn’t spoil so no more details. Just know I liked it. 😉
One part is ermmmmm…
When we get there…there’s a part right after someone gets married where I think it went borderline too close. I didn’t personally feel very comfortable at how close we got to ‘too much’. Basically, it was there to show how someone overcame their difficult past–but I think it could’ve been shown in other less suggestive ways.
note: I received a free copy of his book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
I am absolutely in love with this series so far. I love the prairie setting and the characters. I was happy to see that Tracie also included characters from Treasured Grace (and they were a pretty big part of it, in fact!).
To me this story is filled with journeys.
Hope’s journey, Grace’s continuing journey, Mercy’s journey (I loved how we get a view of her before her story comes out!), Lance’s journey, etc.
When I was done I had a moment of WOW. We went from anger, pain, misery, bitterness–to sweet, loving, trusting in God. This is so amazing. But let’s get a little specific here…
Hope is a lovely character
In the first book we see her as somewhat fickle and flighty. With her string of suitors and her flirtatious mannerisms. But wow! Character development, people.
She’s gone through a lot (read the other book for that) and it shows. I am glad I got to peek into her story as I identified more with her than Grace 😉 .
Re-visitation of old characters
I love when people use their old characters. It’s not so much reusing them as revisiting them. Alex, Grace, Mercy, and other characters return.
Intro to Mercy
Mercy is the sister who seeks education. You have Grace–the healer, Hope the romantic, and now Mercy the learner. I fully expect her to find someone when she goes for school but…for now she’s single. 😉 She’s also very young at the moment. (but prairie days were different)
One thing I like about her is how she doesn’t just go with the flow and marry one of those random proposal guys. (there’s a shortage of woman and plenty of men who need-want wives 😆 .) There are several jerks where they live btw so expect it.
She has dreams of her own, and yet she’s willing to conform her dreams to God’s will. Can’t wait for Cherished Mercy.
And then there’s Lance…
I wasn’t expecting much of a link with the main dude and the first book, so I was surprised when one occurred. This story is told in about the same perspective style as Treasured Grace. It switches from Hope to Lance on a regular basis.
I love the development between Lance and Alex. I am not going to spoil anything that the synopsis wouldn’t spoil so no more details. Just know I liked it. 😉
One part is ermmmmm…
When we get there…there’s a part right after someone gets married where I think it went borderline too close. I didn’t personally feel very comfortable at how close we got to ‘too much’. Basically, it was there to show how someone overcame their difficult past–but I think it could’ve been shown in other less suggestive ways.
note: I received a free copy of his book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
August 15, 2017
I struggled with this book. I liked it so much more than the first in the series. more than likely this is due to the massacre and aftermath. However I love that Hope did not settle. I don't want to spoil things so I will simply say that one needs to read A Treasured Grace prior to reading this one.
September 23, 2017
Just like Tracie Peterson's first book in this series, I absolutely loved this book right from the start! It was a great second book to the Heart of Frontier series. This is one of my favorite book series ever by Tracie Peterson! I loved her other book series that I read but this one is probably my favorite!
While the first book was about Grace, this one is about her younger sister Hope. Hope was actually one of the victims who was raped while they were held hostage by the Indians (right now at this moment I cannot remember the name of the tribe). Two years after the attack, she was asked to testify against the guilty indians that murdered and wronged so many of the women, she came face to face with her past. She tried as hard as she could to keep from breaking down during the trial, the only good thing about the trial was that Hope met Lieutenant Lance Kerners. They formed a friendship and promised each other that they would not fall in love with the other, but alsa God had other plans for their so called friendship. At the end of the book and after a few plot twists they ended up married (like no duh). One thing that I loved about this book was that we got to see Grace and Alex's marriage and how it had former over the past two years. In this book she even was pregnant.
This book was not only about the trial but also it was about how Hope and Lance had to find peace in God in order to put their pasts behind them. It was so amazing seeing how God can take away our burdens of even the worst things that have happened in our lived. Even though this book is fiction, the message of how God only can heal us and no one or nothing else is pure truth.
A highly recommended book! I have already started the second one! Hehehe.....
While the first book was about Grace, this one is about her younger sister Hope. Hope was actually one of the victims who was raped while they were held hostage by the Indians (right now at this moment I cannot remember the name of the tribe). Two years after the attack, she was asked to testify against the guilty indians that murdered and wronged so many of the women, she came face to face with her past. She tried as hard as she could to keep from breaking down during the trial, the only good thing about the trial was that Hope met Lieutenant Lance Kerners. They formed a friendship and promised each other that they would not fall in love with the other, but alsa God had other plans for their so called friendship. At the end of the book and after a few plot twists they ended up married (like no duh). One thing that I loved about this book was that we got to see Grace and Alex's marriage and how it had former over the past two years. In this book she even was pregnant.
This book was not only about the trial but also it was about how Hope and Lance had to find peace in God in order to put their pasts behind them. It was so amazing seeing how God can take away our burdens of even the worst things that have happened in our lived. Even though this book is fiction, the message of how God only can heal us and no one or nothing else is pure truth.
A highly recommended book! I have already started the second one! Hehehe.....
April 7, 2020
Beloved Hope expands on the story of second Flanagan sister, Hope, and the emotional and physical trauma she continues to endure from the sexual assault she suffered in Book 1. Now nearly three years have passed and the sisters have relocated to Oregon City to live near their uncle. Older sister Grace now owns a 140 acre property with her new husband, and Hope takes up residence there, working as a sheep herder. Just as she's starting to make the first steps to put her past behind her, she's asked to testify against the Cayuse Indians responsible for orchestrating the Whitman Mission Massacre.
In the few years since her attack, Hope's heart, once light and flirty, has now noticeably (and understandably) hardened. She initially has no interest in offering testimony --- and through that, she feels, a level of acknowledgement and forgiveness --- to her attackers. Though both Hope and younger sister Mercy survived the massacre, they don't see eye to eye on the topic of the fate of the Cayuse men being brought to trial for their actions. Hope wants revenge while Mercy firmly believes in forgiveness. Gradually, circumstances lead to a shift in Hope's stance.
Army Lieutenant Lance Kenner serves as head of courtroom security at the trial. While it might not necessarily be love at first sight...of the back of Hope's head (his very first sight of her)... it's at least curious interest. A meeting between them soon takes place, where Kenner offers his friendship. Naturally, Hope is a little skittish around male attention. She doesn't promise anything much beyond the polite civility etiquette dictates, but Kenner takes what he can get. Since her attack, Hope has convinced herself that no decent man could ever overlook her body now being "unpure". Lance's brilliant reply is, "No decent man would hold that against you." Of course the more he spends time with her and gets to know her, the more he wishes for the relationship to grow, but to his credit, he has an unwavering patience that eventually pays off, convincing Hope that he is surely a man she can safely let her guard down around.
Beloved Hope addresses, from a historical perspective, the various aspects of what we often now refer to as rape culture. So many of Hope's concerns and conflicted decisions are driven by how society perceives (or at least how she imagines they perceive) her as "damaged goods", rather than the weight and blame being placed on the attacker (ie. victim shaming). There's quite the arc of emotional growth to her character, as she goes through the process of learning that, when it comes to trauma, forgiving doesn't mean forgetting, and that the purpose of forgiving is often more for the victim than the attacker. It's a means of release rather than letting your abuser have any extra power over you or your future. Through the friendship (and ultimately, kind love) of Lance Kenner, Hope begins to see that while she might partly be damaged inside, she's certainly still very much worthy of love, not only of the romantic kind, but from her sisters as well. There's a fair amount of depth to this novel, and the reader goes on quite the emotional rollercoaster with Hope as she figures things out, but it's nice to see her come back around to finding a sense of joy once again. It doesn't mean that the past doesn't still hurt on some level, but just that she's allowing herself the space to bring smiles through again. It's a beautiful thing when a trauma victim is able to come back to that place and I applaud Peterson for addressing this in a historical setting.
If you haven't read the first book, Peterson does a pretty good job of covering the highlights from that story in this one, so technically the series can be started from any book and you'll probably get the gist of whichever other books in the series you missed, but because of certain moments in the story --- for instance, a reference to a skeleton in Alex Armistead's closet (introduced in the first book) --- it's probably best to read these in order, to get the best reading experience of the series.
FTC Disclaimer: Bethany House Publishers kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
In the few years since her attack, Hope's heart, once light and flirty, has now noticeably (and understandably) hardened. She initially has no interest in offering testimony --- and through that, she feels, a level of acknowledgement and forgiveness --- to her attackers. Though both Hope and younger sister Mercy survived the massacre, they don't see eye to eye on the topic of the fate of the Cayuse men being brought to trial for their actions. Hope wants revenge while Mercy firmly believes in forgiveness. Gradually, circumstances lead to a shift in Hope's stance.
Army Lieutenant Lance Kenner serves as head of courtroom security at the trial. While it might not necessarily be love at first sight...of the back of Hope's head (his very first sight of her)... it's at least curious interest. A meeting between them soon takes place, where Kenner offers his friendship. Naturally, Hope is a little skittish around male attention. She doesn't promise anything much beyond the polite civility etiquette dictates, but Kenner takes what he can get. Since her attack, Hope has convinced herself that no decent man could ever overlook her body now being "unpure". Lance's brilliant reply is, "No decent man would hold that against you." Of course the more he spends time with her and gets to know her, the more he wishes for the relationship to grow, but to his credit, he has an unwavering patience that eventually pays off, convincing Hope that he is surely a man she can safely let her guard down around.
Beloved Hope addresses, from a historical perspective, the various aspects of what we often now refer to as rape culture. So many of Hope's concerns and conflicted decisions are driven by how society perceives (or at least how she imagines they perceive) her as "damaged goods", rather than the weight and blame being placed on the attacker (ie. victim shaming). There's quite the arc of emotional growth to her character, as she goes through the process of learning that, when it comes to trauma, forgiving doesn't mean forgetting, and that the purpose of forgiving is often more for the victim than the attacker. It's a means of release rather than letting your abuser have any extra power over you or your future. Through the friendship (and ultimately, kind love) of Lance Kenner, Hope begins to see that while she might partly be damaged inside, she's certainly still very much worthy of love, not only of the romantic kind, but from her sisters as well. There's a fair amount of depth to this novel, and the reader goes on quite the emotional rollercoaster with Hope as she figures things out, but it's nice to see her come back around to finding a sense of joy once again. It doesn't mean that the past doesn't still hurt on some level, but just that she's allowing herself the space to bring smiles through again. It's a beautiful thing when a trauma victim is able to come back to that place and I applaud Peterson for addressing this in a historical setting.
If you haven't read the first book, Peterson does a pretty good job of covering the highlights from that story in this one, so technically the series can be started from any book and you'll probably get the gist of whichever other books in the series you missed, but because of certain moments in the story --- for instance, a reference to a skeleton in Alex Armistead's closet (introduced in the first book) --- it's probably best to read these in order, to get the best reading experience of the series.
FTC Disclaimer: Bethany House Publishers kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
August 6, 2017
In this second book in the Heart of the Frontier series, we learn that Hope has survived the Whitman massacre. However, just because she survived doesn't mean that she doesn't carry very deep scars of the event. Hope is not sure she will ever trust anyone again, especially a man. After what she's endured, Hope doesn't seem to have a lot of hope for her future. She's living with her sister, Grace and her husband, Alex, as well as her younger sister, Mercy. Hope spends her day tending to their flock of lambs.
It's time for the trial of the Cayuse who caused the trauma that happened at the Whitman plantation. Hope is expected to testify against those who wronged her and many other women in the community but she's not sure she can do it.
There's a new guy in town named Lance who's working at the jail that's holding the Cayuse until they go to trial. Lance is about to get out of the military and he's contemplating returning home to New Orleans to start his law practice and continue to run his family's plantation. After a chance meeting with Hope, Lance isn't sure he wants to go back home. There's a lot of factors that go into this though, including his secret past that he's not sure he could share with someone.
In this novel, Tracie Peterson picks up where she left off in the first book of the series, Treasured Grace. I have not yet read this book but it's my next read as this one was so captivating. I had to download it immediately!! I have also learned that Cherished Mercy, the third book in this series, is set to release in Sept. 2017!! How exciting to read more about this family!
I really fell in love with this book pretty quickly. The story captivated my attention, even though there were a few moments that I was unclear on having not read the first book. For the most part, this is an easy read in terms of picking up pieces though. It is a bit of a heavy read learning of Hope's situation and all she endured while being captured by the Cayuse. For that reason, I would not recommend this book to tender aged readers. There are several "adult" issues faced in this book that might be difficult for a younger crowd.
I loved the story of Lance as well. The way that he handled the past issues he faced was done with much grace. I am not sure I could have been as forgiving as he was (or Hope either for that matter). The overarching theme of this book is forgiveness as well as hope. I felt I could identify with both Lance and Hope on some level and I appreciated the ways in which they handled their issues. My only real issue with this story is that the path to salvation was shortened by a few steps. I do believe that one must Hear the Word (Romans 10:17), Believe on the Word (Matthew 16:16, John 8:24, Acts 16:30-31), Repent of those sins (Luke 24:47, 2 Cor. 7:10, Acts 2:37-38), Confess their sins publicly (Matt. 16:16, Matt. 10:32-33; Romans 10:8-10; Acts 8:35-38), and be Baptized (immersed) (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Col. 2:12; Acts 22:16) for the forgiveness of sins. Then and only then do I believe, as the Bible points out, that one is saved (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). In this story, Lance was strongly encouraged to hear the Word, believe on the Word, and ask for forgiveness. He was not encouraged to follow through with baptism for the remission of his sins.
Many thanks to Bethany House publishers, as well as Tracie Peterson, for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The thoughts written here are my own and I was allowed to read this novel in exchange for my personal thoughts.
It's time for the trial of the Cayuse who caused the trauma that happened at the Whitman plantation. Hope is expected to testify against those who wronged her and many other women in the community but she's not sure she can do it.
There's a new guy in town named Lance who's working at the jail that's holding the Cayuse until they go to trial. Lance is about to get out of the military and he's contemplating returning home to New Orleans to start his law practice and continue to run his family's plantation. After a chance meeting with Hope, Lance isn't sure he wants to go back home. There's a lot of factors that go into this though, including his secret past that he's not sure he could share with someone.
In this novel, Tracie Peterson picks up where she left off in the first book of the series, Treasured Grace. I have not yet read this book but it's my next read as this one was so captivating. I had to download it immediately!! I have also learned that Cherished Mercy, the third book in this series, is set to release in Sept. 2017!! How exciting to read more about this family!
I really fell in love with this book pretty quickly. The story captivated my attention, even though there were a few moments that I was unclear on having not read the first book. For the most part, this is an easy read in terms of picking up pieces though. It is a bit of a heavy read learning of Hope's situation and all she endured while being captured by the Cayuse. For that reason, I would not recommend this book to tender aged readers. There are several "adult" issues faced in this book that might be difficult for a younger crowd.
I loved the story of Lance as well. The way that he handled the past issues he faced was done with much grace. I am not sure I could have been as forgiving as he was (or Hope either for that matter). The overarching theme of this book is forgiveness as well as hope. I felt I could identify with both Lance and Hope on some level and I appreciated the ways in which they handled their issues. My only real issue with this story is that the path to salvation was shortened by a few steps. I do believe that one must Hear the Word (Romans 10:17), Believe on the Word (Matthew 16:16, John 8:24, Acts 16:30-31), Repent of those sins (Luke 24:47, 2 Cor. 7:10, Acts 2:37-38), Confess their sins publicly (Matt. 16:16, Matt. 10:32-33; Romans 10:8-10; Acts 8:35-38), and be Baptized (immersed) (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Col. 2:12; Acts 22:16) for the forgiveness of sins. Then and only then do I believe, as the Bible points out, that one is saved (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). In this story, Lance was strongly encouraged to hear the Word, believe on the Word, and ask for forgiveness. He was not encouraged to follow through with baptism for the remission of his sins.
Many thanks to Bethany House publishers, as well as Tracie Peterson, for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The thoughts written here are my own and I was allowed to read this novel in exchange for my personal thoughts.
August 29, 2017
First off, this book it the second in the “Heart of the Frontier” series. It can be read and understood without reading the first of the series. The events of this book do tie into the events of the first, however, Peterson does a good job of providing enough of a recap that new readers do not find themselves lost.
I wanted to like this book. Upon receiving a copy of this book, I was pleasantly surprised to find a list of dozens of other novels written by Peterson on the flyleaf. I love finding new, engaging authors who already have a long repertoire of books to go through; but that is not the case here.
This book can be categorized in a number of ways: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance.
Let’s start with the redeeming part of this book: It was historically accurate. The information about the Whitmore Massacre is accurate, most of the names given of those who perished are actual people who were killed, and dozens of women and children were taken captive. The time frame between the massacre and the trial is accurate, the outcome of the trial is accurate, the sentencing and execution are accurate, the dates used are accurate—you get the point. And while I love historical accuracy in stories like this, it is not enough to overcome some of the other faults.
As a work of romance, I don’t have too many issues. Hope and Lance’s story is cute. Grace and Alex’s relationship is established in the first novel in the series, and continues to expand and grow throughout this novel. And youngest sister, Mercy, takes her first steps into the field of romance and learns a lot about who she wants to be.
BUT! Hope is suffering from PTSD, and the steps she goes through to overcome that are not necessarily accurate or enough. By this I mean, Lance gives hope space, he lets her make the decisions about what she wants their relationship to be. And that’s great, but the main “crutch” to Hope overcoming her PTSD is faith. And I have a very, VERY, hard time believing that in the midst of a trial that drags up all those awful memories, that faith alone is enough.
Which brings us to the religious aspects of this novel. I fully understand that this is Christian Fiction. But this was overkill. While reading I often felt that Peterson made a list of verses and passages from the Bible that fit in with the messages she wanted to include, and then shoved every. single. one. into this book. At one point, instead of just including the words of passages she goes as far as to state that the passage comes from Psalm 56:3. Now this documentation isn’t inherently bad, but as the novel wore on there was a definite thickening of religious messages included, and in the final 60 pages, suddenly it was all important to actually state where in the Bible these words were coming from.
It was just too much. This novel started out as lighthearted as one can be when dealing with a rape survivor, and continued on a path that actually gave that character, Hope, a personality and a future. She wasn’t just a victim and she wasn’t portrayed as being helpless, but as the novel came to a close suddenly is wasn’t about the progress Hope made, but about the messages of faith that pertained to her situation.
I just felt like I was reading a list of biblical messages that pertained to fear and faith. I did enjoy the relationships presented between the characters, and the historical aspects of the plot. But overall, this one missed the mark for me.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to like this book. Upon receiving a copy of this book, I was pleasantly surprised to find a list of dozens of other novels written by Peterson on the flyleaf. I love finding new, engaging authors who already have a long repertoire of books to go through; but that is not the case here.
This book can be categorized in a number of ways: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance.
Let’s start with the redeeming part of this book: It was historically accurate. The information about the Whitmore Massacre is accurate, most of the names given of those who perished are actual people who were killed, and dozens of women and children were taken captive. The time frame between the massacre and the trial is accurate, the outcome of the trial is accurate, the sentencing and execution are accurate, the dates used are accurate—you get the point. And while I love historical accuracy in stories like this, it is not enough to overcome some of the other faults.
As a work of romance, I don’t have too many issues. Hope and Lance’s story is cute. Grace and Alex’s relationship is established in the first novel in the series, and continues to expand and grow throughout this novel. And youngest sister, Mercy, takes her first steps into the field of romance and learns a lot about who she wants to be.
BUT! Hope is suffering from PTSD, and the steps she goes through to overcome that are not necessarily accurate or enough. By this I mean, Lance gives hope space, he lets her make the decisions about what she wants their relationship to be. And that’s great, but the main “crutch” to Hope overcoming her PTSD is faith. And I have a very, VERY, hard time believing that in the midst of a trial that drags up all those awful memories, that faith alone is enough.
Which brings us to the religious aspects of this novel. I fully understand that this is Christian Fiction. But this was overkill. While reading I often felt that Peterson made a list of verses and passages from the Bible that fit in with the messages she wanted to include, and then shoved every. single. one. into this book. At one point, instead of just including the words of passages she goes as far as to state that the passage comes from Psalm 56:3. Now this documentation isn’t inherently bad, but as the novel wore on there was a definite thickening of religious messages included, and in the final 60 pages, suddenly it was all important to actually state where in the Bible these words were coming from.
It was just too much. This novel started out as lighthearted as one can be when dealing with a rape survivor, and continued on a path that actually gave that character, Hope, a personality and a future. She wasn’t just a victim and she wasn’t portrayed as being helpless, but as the novel came to a close suddenly is wasn’t about the progress Hope made, but about the messages of faith that pertained to her situation.
I just felt like I was reading a list of biblical messages that pertained to fear and faith. I did enjoy the relationships presented between the characters, and the historical aspects of the plot. But overall, this one missed the mark for me.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2018
Beloved Hope by Tracie Peterson is a wonderful Christian historical romance which I loved. It is the second book in the Heart Of The Frontier series but can be read as a stand-alone as all the back story is incorporated into the book. However I would recommend reading book one Treasured Grace first.
The novel deals with the after effects of trauma. Her "scars weren't visible ones." Today we would diagnose PTSD but it was unheard of in 1850. Tracie Peterson explores the difficulties of living a life of fear. "I lost more than my innocence... They took my dreams of love and a family. They took my ability to feel safe." Home is no longer a refuge. Safety comes in withdrawing from people, hoping to feel better when... but it doesn't happen. Fear dominates.
Anger ties in with fear. An anger at God. He watched the (real life) Whitman Mission massacre and He did nothing to stop it. Our anger and fear need to be given to God because only He can truly heal us of our pain.
Major themes are grudges and forgiveness. Some characters find it easy to forgive, knowing "holding a grudge takes a great deal of strength." For others their pain and anger fuels them. Their physical health will suffer if they do not forgive. Forgiveness is not excusing. Forgiveness is not forgetting. Forgiveness is freedom for the one doing the forgiving.
The novel explores relationship with and trust in God. "Sitting in a church doesn't make you a Christian... it's about believing and confessing." Being a Christian is all about relationship with God and each other. It is not having religion which is following rules. Christianity is about grace given to all. None of us deserve it. We cannot earn it. Grace cost Jesus everything and it is His gift to us.
The novel shows the prejudice, hatred and anger towards the Native Americans. All Native Americans are charged with the actions of a few. Ignorant white people believe them to be savages and not worthy of knowing God. This also seems to be limiting God. "Is He not able to save the Indian?" Not everyone holds backward and prejudiced thinking, knowing "Not all Indians are bad and all whites good."
The novel is about family. Family in the microcosm and the macrocosm. Family that pulls together regardless of the colour of their skin.
Beloved Hope was another wonderful offering from Tracie Peterson who writes novels that inform, entertain and are grounded in God. I am loving this series. It's on to book three now, Cherished Mercy to find out what happens next. I cannot get enough of Tracie Peterson.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The novel deals with the after effects of trauma. Her "scars weren't visible ones." Today we would diagnose PTSD but it was unheard of in 1850. Tracie Peterson explores the difficulties of living a life of fear. "I lost more than my innocence... They took my dreams of love and a family. They took my ability to feel safe." Home is no longer a refuge. Safety comes in withdrawing from people, hoping to feel better when... but it doesn't happen. Fear dominates.
Anger ties in with fear. An anger at God. He watched the (real life) Whitman Mission massacre and He did nothing to stop it. Our anger and fear need to be given to God because only He can truly heal us of our pain.
Major themes are grudges and forgiveness. Some characters find it easy to forgive, knowing "holding a grudge takes a great deal of strength." For others their pain and anger fuels them. Their physical health will suffer if they do not forgive. Forgiveness is not excusing. Forgiveness is not forgetting. Forgiveness is freedom for the one doing the forgiving.
The novel explores relationship with and trust in God. "Sitting in a church doesn't make you a Christian... it's about believing and confessing." Being a Christian is all about relationship with God and each other. It is not having religion which is following rules. Christianity is about grace given to all. None of us deserve it. We cannot earn it. Grace cost Jesus everything and it is His gift to us.
The novel shows the prejudice, hatred and anger towards the Native Americans. All Native Americans are charged with the actions of a few. Ignorant white people believe them to be savages and not worthy of knowing God. This also seems to be limiting God. "Is He not able to save the Indian?" Not everyone holds backward and prejudiced thinking, knowing "Not all Indians are bad and all whites good."
The novel is about family. Family in the microcosm and the macrocosm. Family that pulls together regardless of the colour of their skin.
Beloved Hope was another wonderful offering from Tracie Peterson who writes novels that inform, entertain and are grounded in God. I am loving this series. It's on to book three now, Cherished Mercy to find out what happens next. I cannot get enough of Tracie Peterson.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
August 15, 2017
Tracie Peterson was one of the first Christian Fiction authors I ever read, and I have enjoyed reading most of her books since. And I must say that with Beloved Hope, the second in her “Heart of the Frontier” series, Ms. Peterson has written another great book.
It centers on Hope, a survivor of the Whitman Massacre, who is struggling to overcome what happened to her there when she’s asked to testify against her Indian attackers at their trial. She harbors anger and a desire for revenge toward them for what they did to her and the others. Hope is a great character. She’s determined to put it all behind her but she can’t, not even once the trial is completed. Hope struggles with leaning on God in the wake of this traumatic event and it is something that I deeply empathize with.
I also appreciated that none of the secondary characters, especially Hope’s two sisters, felt her feelings were necessarily wrong in and of themselves. They worried about the damage to Hope herself with her inability to move on from the tragedy by keeping a hold on those feelings.
Lance is the other main character, and he’s also a good character, though his development isn’t quite as noticeable as Hope’s is. He’s a soldier at the beginning of the book, tasked with making sure the Indians on trial for the massacre are kept safe during it. He and Hope develop a friendship that eventually blossoms into love.
Lance’s main struggle is trying to forgive the man who engaged in a duel with his brother, and to learn to lean on God. The journeys that Hope and Lance take throughout the book are thought provoking and believable.
The secondary characters, especially Hope’s sisters, Mercy and Grace, are excellently drawn. None of them feels as if they are a mere plot point. Grace is the heroine of the first book, and Mercy the heroine of the next one. I am definitely picking up both stories. Though they are a series, each book works perfectly well as a standalone.
Ms. Peterson always does an excellent job of setting the scene, and this one is no exception. You can definitely see Oregon City through the eyes of the characters.
I give this book 4/5 stars and recommend it to lovers of Christian Historical Romance who appreciate tough topics being handled deftly. There is one part of Lance’s forgiveness story that feels contrived, but it doesn’t distract from the overall themes and didn’t lessen my enjoyment of the story.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House. All opinions are my own.**
It centers on Hope, a survivor of the Whitman Massacre, who is struggling to overcome what happened to her there when she’s asked to testify against her Indian attackers at their trial. She harbors anger and a desire for revenge toward them for what they did to her and the others. Hope is a great character. She’s determined to put it all behind her but she can’t, not even once the trial is completed. Hope struggles with leaning on God in the wake of this traumatic event and it is something that I deeply empathize with.
I also appreciated that none of the secondary characters, especially Hope’s two sisters, felt her feelings were necessarily wrong in and of themselves. They worried about the damage to Hope herself with her inability to move on from the tragedy by keeping a hold on those feelings.
Lance is the other main character, and he’s also a good character, though his development isn’t quite as noticeable as Hope’s is. He’s a soldier at the beginning of the book, tasked with making sure the Indians on trial for the massacre are kept safe during it. He and Hope develop a friendship that eventually blossoms into love.
Lance’s main struggle is trying to forgive the man who engaged in a duel with his brother, and to learn to lean on God. The journeys that Hope and Lance take throughout the book are thought provoking and believable.
The secondary characters, especially Hope’s sisters, Mercy and Grace, are excellently drawn. None of them feels as if they are a mere plot point. Grace is the heroine of the first book, and Mercy the heroine of the next one. I am definitely picking up both stories. Though they are a series, each book works perfectly well as a standalone.
Ms. Peterson always does an excellent job of setting the scene, and this one is no exception. You can definitely see Oregon City through the eyes of the characters.
I give this book 4/5 stars and recommend it to lovers of Christian Historical Romance who appreciate tough topics being handled deftly. There is one part of Lance’s forgiveness story that feels contrived, but it doesn’t distract from the overall themes and didn’t lessen my enjoyment of the story.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House. All opinions are my own.**
August 21, 2017
When I received this book from Bethany House, I knew my mother, Gloria would be very excited because Tracie Peterson is one of her favorite authors. I immediately turned the book over to Gloria to read so everyone could learn about the book. Without anything further, here's Gloria's review:
"Beloved Hope is the second book in the Heart of the Frontier series, the first book was Treasured Grace.
I did not read the first book, but I feel I would have enjoyed the second one better if I had. The stories are about three orphaned sisters. Grace, Hope, and Mercy Flanagan. (Can you guess what the third book's title might be? )
In the first book we learned about Grace. Tracie Peterson picks up with the second one is about Hope, the middle daughter in the Flanagan family.
This story begins in Oregon City, Oregon in May, 1850. We learn that Hope survived the Whitman massacre and was asked to testify in the Cayuse trial. She does not believe she can do it. The five Cayuse men who was responsible for the Whitman massacre had been turned over to the army and was there to stand trial.
Hope had survived, but after 21/2 years she still carried scars and knew she had lost trust in God and everyone else, especially a man. Hope had watched John Sager the man she loved and hoped to marry die in her arms. Hope is a survivor of rape from one of the accused and has no hope for her future. She is living with her 2 sisters and brother-in-law Alex and prefers to take care of the sheep and taking care of their wool. Over time Hope realizes God is not to blame. She is pregnant but does not want the child.
Lance Kenner is finishing up his tour with the Army but has one last assignment. He is to guard the five Cayuse men until their court hearing. One day after court hearings Lance found Hope holding a gun on one of his prisoners. After removing the gun from her hands he convinced her that she needs a friend. He is so drawn to her. Their friendship grew into a sweet romance that moved very slowly in this story.
How does the trial go and does Hope testify against the Cayuse five men? Lance has a secret past that Hope does not know? When will be share his past with Hope?
I enjoyed this book and look forward to the third book in this series, Cherished Mercy, that comes out September 5, 2017!
I received a copy of this book without cost from the publisher through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own, or in this case, my mother, Gloria's opinions.
"Beloved Hope is the second book in the Heart of the Frontier series, the first book was Treasured Grace.
I did not read the first book, but I feel I would have enjoyed the second one better if I had. The stories are about three orphaned sisters. Grace, Hope, and Mercy Flanagan. (Can you guess what the third book's title might be? )
In the first book we learned about Grace. Tracie Peterson picks up with the second one is about Hope, the middle daughter in the Flanagan family.
This story begins in Oregon City, Oregon in May, 1850. We learn that Hope survived the Whitman massacre and was asked to testify in the Cayuse trial. She does not believe she can do it. The five Cayuse men who was responsible for the Whitman massacre had been turned over to the army and was there to stand trial.
Hope had survived, but after 21/2 years she still carried scars and knew she had lost trust in God and everyone else, especially a man. Hope had watched John Sager the man she loved and hoped to marry die in her arms. Hope is a survivor of rape from one of the accused and has no hope for her future. She is living with her 2 sisters and brother-in-law Alex and prefers to take care of the sheep and taking care of their wool. Over time Hope realizes God is not to blame. She is pregnant but does not want the child.
Lance Kenner is finishing up his tour with the Army but has one last assignment. He is to guard the five Cayuse men until their court hearing. One day after court hearings Lance found Hope holding a gun on one of his prisoners. After removing the gun from her hands he convinced her that she needs a friend. He is so drawn to her. Their friendship grew into a sweet romance that moved very slowly in this story.
How does the trial go and does Hope testify against the Cayuse five men? Lance has a secret past that Hope does not know? When will be share his past with Hope?
I enjoyed this book and look forward to the third book in this series, Cherished Mercy, that comes out September 5, 2017!
I received a copy of this book without cost from the publisher through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own, or in this case, my mother, Gloria's opinions.
April 1, 2022
Title: Beloved Hope (Heart of the Frontier #2)
Author: Tracie Peterson
Pages: 332
Year: 2017
Publisher: Bethany Publishers
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars.
Hope Flanagan is the survivor of the Whitman Massacre just months ago, though she isn’t sure she can move past the tragedy. She has two sisters, Grace and Mercy, who reside in the Oregon Territory in a small cabin where they take care of a flock of sheep. Grace is now married to Alex, who readers are introduced to in the first book Treasured Grace and is expecting their first child. However, Alex has been sent on a mission by the governor and has no knowledge of the coming baby.
Hope gives Alex her word that she will help care for Grace until he returns. Grace is the healer of the family. She learned how to use healing herbs from her mother before coming west. Hope loves to work with wool, making yarn and selling it to the local woman. Hope’s life becomes unsettled when those responsible for the massacre are brought to trial and she is asked to testify. The trial brings to the forefront all that Hope experienced first-hand, and she isn’t sure she can move past the darkness in her heart.
Lance Kenner is in the Army, and he is tasked with seeing to the security and welfare of the defendants. When Lance helps Hope not to take matters into her own hands, he brings to Hope an unexpected friendship. In time, Lance and Hope must both face their pasts if they are even to have a chance at a future together.
Tracie Peterson has done a magnificent job of telling a story where forgiveness isn’t easy, but it is where true freedom from the pain of the past is found. I enjoyed seeing the relationship between the sisters be one where their uniqueness is highlighted as well as their dependence upon God and each other is shining. Hope’s is the one who suffered physically more than her sisters when the massacre happened, and it took time for healing to become a reality. The Heart of the Frontier series will keep readers mesmerized and turning pages until the very end. However, let me assure you that even then, the story will resonate in the heart of the reader for days afterward. I look forward to reading the story of the youngest sister, Mercy, in Cherished Mercy, the final book in the trilogy. Join the adventure by reading the books and sharing with family and friends!
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.
Author: Tracie Peterson
Pages: 332
Year: 2017
Publisher: Bethany Publishers
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars.
Hope Flanagan is the survivor of the Whitman Massacre just months ago, though she isn’t sure she can move past the tragedy. She has two sisters, Grace and Mercy, who reside in the Oregon Territory in a small cabin where they take care of a flock of sheep. Grace is now married to Alex, who readers are introduced to in the first book Treasured Grace and is expecting their first child. However, Alex has been sent on a mission by the governor and has no knowledge of the coming baby.
Hope gives Alex her word that she will help care for Grace until he returns. Grace is the healer of the family. She learned how to use healing herbs from her mother before coming west. Hope loves to work with wool, making yarn and selling it to the local woman. Hope’s life becomes unsettled when those responsible for the massacre are brought to trial and she is asked to testify. The trial brings to the forefront all that Hope experienced first-hand, and she isn’t sure she can move past the darkness in her heart.
Lance Kenner is in the Army, and he is tasked with seeing to the security and welfare of the defendants. When Lance helps Hope not to take matters into her own hands, he brings to Hope an unexpected friendship. In time, Lance and Hope must both face their pasts if they are even to have a chance at a future together.
Tracie Peterson has done a magnificent job of telling a story where forgiveness isn’t easy, but it is where true freedom from the pain of the past is found. I enjoyed seeing the relationship between the sisters be one where their uniqueness is highlighted as well as their dependence upon God and each other is shining. Hope’s is the one who suffered physically more than her sisters when the massacre happened, and it took time for healing to become a reality. The Heart of the Frontier series will keep readers mesmerized and turning pages until the very end. However, let me assure you that even then, the story will resonate in the heart of the reader for days afterward. I look forward to reading the story of the youngest sister, Mercy, in Cherished Mercy, the final book in the trilogy. Join the adventure by reading the books and sharing with family and friends!
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.
August 10, 2017
Beloved Hope is the second book in Tracie Peterson's Heart of the Frontier series. (See my review of book one, Treasured Grace).
This second book follows Hope, the middle sister of the three Flanagan girls who survived the Cayuse Massacre at the Whitman Mission in late 1847 (this story is told in book 1). Beloved Hope opens in May 1850, as Hope is wrestling with the memories of the massacre and subsequent captivity because she has been asked to testify in the trial against the Cayuse who were responsible for the deadly attack. At the mission, not only was Hope's beau John Sager (an actual historical figure) murdered, but she was taken advantage of multiple times during the captivity.
In the two years that has passed, Hope has maintained bitterness and unforgiveness against Tomahas-the Cayuse who stole her innocence--and wants nothing but revenge. She has closed herself to friendships and other relationships, and is convinced that she is no longer capable of loving or being loved.
Army Lieutenant Lance Kenner is stationed in the Oregon City area and has been assigned to keep order during the Cayuse Trial. He meets Hope when the young woman goes to the prison where Tomahas and the other braves are being held with a gun in an attempt to kill Tomahas herself. He is intrigued by this fiery young woman, but Hope has made it very clear that she wants no part in a relationship.
Meanwhile, Lance is struggling with his own feelings of resentment and unforgiveness, and he is stunned to learn that someone close to Hope has ties to the man who killed Lance's brother. Can Hope and Lance push aside the pain of the past and open themselves up enough to be loved? Or will their bitterness stand in the way of true happiness?
I liked this book quite a bit--it was not nearly as sad as the first book in the series, and instead focusing on hope, second chances, and forgiveness. I enjoyed getting to know Hope, rejoicing with Alex and Grace as Grace as she prepares to give birth to their first child, and watching Mercy mature into a lovely young woman. In fact, I am looking forward to the next book in the series, which I assume will follow Mercy.
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
This second book follows Hope, the middle sister of the three Flanagan girls who survived the Cayuse Massacre at the Whitman Mission in late 1847 (this story is told in book 1). Beloved Hope opens in May 1850, as Hope is wrestling with the memories of the massacre and subsequent captivity because she has been asked to testify in the trial against the Cayuse who were responsible for the deadly attack. At the mission, not only was Hope's beau John Sager (an actual historical figure) murdered, but she was taken advantage of multiple times during the captivity.
In the two years that has passed, Hope has maintained bitterness and unforgiveness against Tomahas-the Cayuse who stole her innocence--and wants nothing but revenge. She has closed herself to friendships and other relationships, and is convinced that she is no longer capable of loving or being loved.
Army Lieutenant Lance Kenner is stationed in the Oregon City area and has been assigned to keep order during the Cayuse Trial. He meets Hope when the young woman goes to the prison where Tomahas and the other braves are being held with a gun in an attempt to kill Tomahas herself. He is intrigued by this fiery young woman, but Hope has made it very clear that she wants no part in a relationship.
Meanwhile, Lance is struggling with his own feelings of resentment and unforgiveness, and he is stunned to learn that someone close to Hope has ties to the man who killed Lance's brother. Can Hope and Lance push aside the pain of the past and open themselves up enough to be loved? Or will their bitterness stand in the way of true happiness?
I liked this book quite a bit--it was not nearly as sad as the first book in the series, and instead focusing on hope, second chances, and forgiveness. I enjoyed getting to know Hope, rejoicing with Alex and Grace as Grace as she prepares to give birth to their first child, and watching Mercy mature into a lovely young woman. In fact, I am looking forward to the next book in the series, which I assume will follow Mercy.
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
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