"It's a blessed child who's carried close to a mother's heart through Christmastime. Soakin' up all that love and goodness."
Title: Christmas at Carnton
Series: Carnton, Prequel
Author: Tamera Alexander
Publisher: Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction
Release Date: October 3, 2017
Genre: Inspirational Historical Fiction / Novella
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Recently widowed, Aletta Prescott struggles to hold life together for herself and her six-year old son. With the bank threatening to evict them, she discovers an advertisement for the Women's Relief Society auction and applies for a position—only to discover it's been filled. Then a chance meeting with a wounded soldier offers another opportunity-- and friendship. But can Aletta trust this man?
Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffered a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Women's Relief Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of "crinolines" isn't his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies—one, in particular—is far more than he bargained for.
Set against the backdrop of the real history of Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored at Christmas.
Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffered a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Women's Relief Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of "crinolines" isn't his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies—one, in particular—is far more than he bargained for.
Set against the backdrop of the real history of Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored at Christmas.
MY THOUGHTS
I love the new start of a series. I look forward to meeting new characters, experiencing a new setting, and most of all, a new adventure. If you haven't picked up a story by Tamera Alexander, you really should, and what better time than with a new novella? Christmas at Carnton is also a prequel to a new series by the author, set to release in the Fall of this year.
Christmas at Carnton brings us to the Carnton plantation in Franklin, Tennessee during the Civil War period. A quick and lovely read from the start, the author managed to give us a story of hope and faith - in people and in God. During a time when women need to step into the shoes of men, newly widowed, Aletta has a lot on her plate, including finding a job. Whereas injured Confederate soldier, Jake would rather be in the battlefield with his comrades than being safely tucked in Nashville. Both characters have their hearts set on certain things, and only trusting themselves. I enjoyed the personal development of each, and even the eventual romance between the two. Then the other characters are also a delight, especially Tempy and Mrs. McGavock, the matron of Carnton.
All in all, a solid introduction to a glimpse of what we can expect of more stories set at the Carnton plantation.
Christmas at Carnton brings us to the Carnton plantation in Franklin, Tennessee during the Civil War period. A quick and lovely read from the start, the author managed to give us a story of hope and faith - in people and in God. During a time when women need to step into the shoes of men, newly widowed, Aletta has a lot on her plate, including finding a job. Whereas injured Confederate soldier, Jake would rather be in the battlefield with his comrades than being safely tucked in Nashville. Both characters have their hearts set on certain things, and only trusting themselves. I enjoyed the personal development of each, and even the eventual romance between the two. Then the other characters are also a delight, especially Tempy and Mrs. McGavock, the matron of Carnton.
All in all, a solid introduction to a glimpse of what we can expect of more stories set at the Carnton plantation.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
Please note, if planning to share quoted quotes (quote graphics OK), please verify with release copy, since it was taken from an uncorrected proof copy (ARC). Thank you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tamera Alexander is a bestselling novelist whose works have been awarded or nominated for numerous honors, including the Christy Award, the RITA Award, and the Carol Award. After seventeen years in Colorado, Tamera and her husband have returned to their native South and live in Tennessee, where they enjoy spending time with their two grown children.
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I've read this one and LOVED it. I'd highly recommend it.
ReplyDeleteYay Kay!! Woohoo!!
DeleteExcellent review, Annie!
ReplyDeleteThanks Caryl!
DeleteWonderful review, Annie. Loved the book can't wait to read more of the series!
ReplyDeleteI'm with you on that Deanne! Looking forward to the series!
DeleteI have read this and many if Tammy’s books. They are excellent. Can’t wait to read the series. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteYay!! I know! Waiting is the hard part!
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