Unflinching and plainspoken, Tessa Swan is not your typical 18th-century woman. Born and bred on the western Virginia frontier along with her five brothers, she is a force to be reckoned with. Quiet and courageous, Clay Tygart is not your typical 18th-century man. Raised by Lenape Indians, he returns a hero from the French and Indian War to the fort that bears his name, bringing with him Tessa’s … him Tessa’s long-lost friend, Keturah, a redeemed Indian captive like himself.
Determined to avoid any romantic entanglements as fort commander, Clay remains aloof whenever he encounters the lovely Tessa. But when she is taken captive by the tribe Clay left, his hand–and heart–are forced, leading to one very private and one very public reckoning.
Intense, evocative, and laced with intricate historical details that bring the past to life, An Uncommon Woman will transport you to the picturesque and dangerous western Virginia mountains of 1770.
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I loved this book!
The characters were fantastic…Tessa being my favorite, of course.
It was very exciting for me to read this book set in my home among the hills. West Virginia is a seldom explored setting for stories such as this, but Frantz meets all expectations for capturing the essence of this wild frontier of time past. She truly captured the mountaineer spirit.
P.S. I love the fact that I need to keep a dictionary handy when I read her books!
Rich Historical Fiction at its Best!
Laura Franz has a way of transporting the reader to another place in history from the very first page! I immediately felt that I had entered into the life of Tessa as she was trapped on the river with her brother between two warring Indian tribes while arrows flew by them. Franz portrays the reality of life on the frontier. The characters go through loss and live in a world where it’s a struggle to stay alive. In spite of the heartache and loss, there is hope for a different future and love.
Franz’s novels are always well-researched with vivid descriptions, deep characterization and well developed stories, and there’s always a top-notch romance to add icing to the cake! I highly recommend this novel! I was thoroughly drawn into the story of Tessa and Clay!
I received a review copy of this novel from the publisher, Revell. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Rich, active, and sensory, this romantic and adventuresome yarn set in 1770 western PA and VA put me in mind of immersion into a mountain river. “Betimes,” it took my breath away. “Ofttimes,” I found myself rereading a sentence twice or thrice, just to get the weft and warp and full weight of it. Laura Frantz has a way of stating things a notch or two beyond the normal, and also of capturing a depth of what’s going on beneath the surface, in the mood and emotions of the characters, in a succinct yet subtle way. The details described of life on the frontier during this period were amazing — and a welcome escape from the modern environment. I couldn’t wait to visit Fort Tygart at the end of every day. These are the reasons I rated this novel at five stars.
That said, the ending left me feeling a bit as though I’d been running full out and suddenly stopped, unsure of where I was. I won’t reveal any spoilers, but it seemed some of the issues were summed up in far less time than it would’ve actually taken. Minds were changed in a day for no apparent reason. And the intense romantic tension did not come to quite the satisfying resolution I had hoped for. Granted, the danger and loss of the frontier snatched away many a tender feeling in 1770. However, I yearned for the hero and heroine to find a deep and abiding solace in each other in the face of that. In the same way, I wanted to see the heroine find that deep and abiding solace in God, enough that it firmed her to stand rather than want to flee unless certain matters were concluded satisfactorily. That can only make so much sense unless you read the book, which I firmly recommend you do. It’s masterful writing which we can all learn from and be blessed by.
Another beautifully written historical by this author. She just has a way with words, almost lyrical. Getting a glimpse into life during that time is a joy when it’s researched and written so well. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All views stated here are my own.
Absolutely loved this newest book by Laura Frantz! The story, the characters, the setting, the history — all of them shine. And this is a great testament to the author’s master wordsmithing and storytelling. I love a story with some grit and meat to it and this one fits the bill. Highly recommend.
An Uncommon Woman is an uncommon book. From the onset Tessa intrigues the reader with her no-nonsense upbringing and her earthy approach to life. She is a survivor and in the rugged country where she lives that is a life changing quality. She thinks on her feet and swallows her pain to be free to help others who are hurting. Can’t say enough good about this story. And now there’s an epilogue!
As Colonel Clay Tygart travels to take command of a frontier fort, he’s charged to return an Indian captive to her family. At first he thinks this blonde beauty is an uncommon woman, until he meets her friend Tessa Swan.
Author Laura Frantz captures the tension of 1770 western Virginia and an uncommon love story. Don’t expect to get much sleep – settlers and Native Americans are locked in a battle to the death.
Once again, Laura Frantz brings to life the early American frontier, introducing the Swan family and Colonel Clay Tygart. Tessa has spent all of her life dodging Indian arrows, haunted by the capture of a dear friend and the death of her father. She longs for a peaceful life beyond the wilderness that was all she knew. Clay Tygart, raised by Lenape Indians and Philadelphia Quakers, he takes command of the fort bearing his name, quickly earning everyone’s respect.
Both determined not to marry, they become an unlikely couple. But when Tessa and her brothers suddenly face grave danger, their love and endurance is tested. They set out on a quest to be rid of the frontier dangers and recover a life dear to Tessa.
Beautifully woven together, An Uncommon Woman will have you turning pages from the very first line about a desired petticoat, to the last page leading into a new life.
An Uncommon Woman, written by Laura Frantz, tells the tale of Tessa Swan and Clay Tygart, two atypical people living in the 18th-century western Virginian wilderness near Buckhannon River.
For the complete review, please go to https://kindredconnection.wordpress.com/2020/03/29/uncommon-woman/.
Tessa Swan is a young frontier woman, living in the territory that will eventually become West Virginia in 1770. Native Americans are a real and deadly threat. There is a fort nearby, but otherwise there is little protection from them. Tessa’s father was killed in an Indian raid, and her older brother Jasper has a deep and bitter hate toward Indians as a result. Tessa lives with her mother and brothers. Her best friend when she was younger was captured by Indians, which has left a void in her life ever since. Word has been received that a commander is on the way for the fort speculation among the settlers rises as to who might be a likely candidate for his wife. Many think Tessa will fill that role. However, upon his arrival, another woman may become Mrs. Tygart.
Clay Tygart is a man who was captured by Indians as a child, then returned to a Quaker family not his own. He has served in the Seven Years War valiantly. The local fort in the West Virginia territory is named after him. He has left civilization for the fort to take command of the fort, organize the settlers and hopefully keep everyone safe. Along with him on the trail are his two African American friends, who are freed slaves, Mattie and Jude, as well as a former captive of the Lenape tribe who is to be reunited with her family after several years in captivity. However, not everyone is accepting of the newly returned woman, especially Tessa’s brother Jasper. She fears what he might do to this woman who still speaks the Lenape language and conducts herself as a Native American.
I enjoy this author’s works because of the rich details included about the time period, the setting/landscape, the food, the clothing and the way of life lived at that time. I like history and learning and find the colonial time period in the early formation of America interesting. This story was a little slow with lots of conversation and rehashing of events. I would have liked the romance to play a little more of a role in the story and perhaps a little more action, but this was still a good historical novel. I look forward to reading this author’s next historical work, which will be filled with interesting history!
This is a story that I will remember and it is a book that I will read again! Author Laura Frantz swept me away with Clay and Tessa’s adventure and as I read it, I kept thinking “Movie, movie, this needs to be movie.” I grew up watching TV westerns and An Uncommon Woman has it all: a hero who was kidnapped by Indians, returned to civilization, and is now the commander of Fort Tygart; a brave but very stubborn young girl who has turned into a true frontier woman; and the hardships of frontier life in 1770. Clay Tygart is very hesitant but he soon experiences a strong attraction to Tessa Swan and she also feels their connection but their relationship faces many obstacles. Frantz’s ability to paint with words illustrates the differences in courtship then and now and she also paints a vivid description of 18th century Virginia and the dangers that were always present. Best of all, however, she offers us a view of the faith and determination that was needed to survive during those perilous times.
If you enjoy Christian historical fiction filled with danger, adventure, and romance, you will certainly want to read An Uncommon Woman by Laura Frantz. It is indeed a keeper!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation to post a review and I am voluntarily sharing my own thoughts.
Reading a Laura Frantz story guarantees a realistic, romantic trip into the past. An Uncommon Woman is another historical romance gem from a gifted author. The characters are so real they’re breathing off the page, and the romance is tender and true.
Tessa and Clay are a wonderful match. Their chemistry was lovely and the strength they both possessed authentic during such a difficult period of our nation’s history. I especially appreciate the author’s ability to give readers an unbiased window into the conflict between the encroaching white man and the Native Americans, and how this affected the characters’ lives.
Laura’s books are meticulously researched and authentically written, her prose so lyrical I often reread portions. She’s a master storyteller with a heart for sharing spiritual truths within the pages of her books. If you’re a fan of inspirational historical romance, you must read An Uncommon Woman and ALL of Laura’s stories
This is my first title with Laura Frantz and I loved it. I felt completely immersed in the story. The way the life on the frontier was described and work involved was done in a way that held my interest. Great attention to detail and accuracy while staying realtable to modern audineces. I guess I got an small general history lesson told through a wonderful story. I wouldn’t catagorize it as a history lesson dressed up in a romance so don’t be scared off if you just want a good, clean historical romance. The author introduced certain challenges, attitudes and dangers of the day through her characters in a natural and real way. I really felt the pain, sorrow, love the h felt in the story. I thought her brothers and the other secondary characters were fabulous. The people & story were multi-dimensional. I loved the H. I would welcome it if this turned into a series and followed the h’s brothers.
I’m always amazed at how this author brings history to life and I feel transported to an era and location that I don’t think I would have done well in. What stood out to me was the fear of an Indian attack on a daily basis. It’s a fear for good reason, as we see in the novel, and the details about the differences between the various tribes were fascinating. The brutality that existed at the time is astounding to me. Tessa is tired of the constant anxiety and dreams of finer things, while also exhibiting a strength and confident sense of self. She is loyal to her family and still grieves the death of her father at the hands of natives. The variety of responses and the dynamics that emerged as Keturah returns to live with their family for a time were surprising and realistic. The story begins at a somewhat slow pace as we get to know the lifestyle the characters live in, but grows steadily as events begin to unfold until I couldn’t put the book down until I reached the last page. I enjoyed the developing romance, but more than that I appreciated coming to know such unique characters with all their layers. Highly recommend!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
Author Laura Frantz has a way of taking historical facts and weaving them into a compelling story that will draw you in. With well developed characters, both good and bad, along with wonderful descriptions of the western frontier, this book is one you won’t put down.
With twists and turns to the plot, there is plenty of danger, and we see that frontier life isn’t always romantic, as often is painted in books and movies. Yet there is also humor in this story, so don’t think it’s going to be entirely serious and heavy. After all, who doesn’t love a grandma?
I will say there were a few words that were very repetitive throughout the story, causing me to “speak” to the author while I was reading. I sure wish the editors had caught them. But it didn’t stop me from continuing on. Just made me flinch now and then. However if you enjoy historical fiction then you’ll enjoy all the history in this book. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
An Uncommon Woman was, without a doubt, one of the best historical fiction books that I have read in a long time. The beautifully unfolding romance captivated me and I was completely immersed in this dangerous and dramatic frontier setting.
The author did a wonderful job of crafting a story with rich details that made it easy for me to envision what life was like at this time in our history. There were so many interesting side characters in this story, too. I loved learning more about Keturah, as well as the various personalities of Tessa’s brothers.
Of course, my favorite parts of the novel involved the budding romance between Clayton Tygart and Tessa Swan. Even as Clay resisted his attraction to Tessa, it built anyway. The feelings between these two characters were so realistic. My only sadness upon closing the last page of this book, was that it was indeed the last page! I would have so loved an epilogue, showing more of Tessa and Clay’s life together a few months or years into the future. I was simply not ready to let go of these two amazing characters!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own.
With a sweep of her phenomenal quill, masterful wordsmith, Laura Frantz, has written a breathtaking, emotive novel set on the Virginia frontier—as hauntingly beautiful as it is heartrending.
The lovely, straightforward Tessa Swan, has no interest in courting as the threat of Indian ambushes and meeting the domestic needs of five brothers takes precedence over such. However, when Clay Tygart, raised by the Lenape Indians returns to the fort, she finds herself quite unwillingly intrigued. Tall, adorned with buckskins, long ebony hair, and unusual eyes, I was quite besotted myself! What ensues is “an uncertain dance, she and Clay, and she was unsure of the next step.” Sigh… ‘Tis such a hopeless romantic, I am.
Frantz’s poetic prose and vivid imagery immediately whisked me off to another place and moment—a place ofttimes heartbreaking, but with timeless characters and situations that I savored—occasionally rereading entire passages. The courage of these early settlers and the toil and hardships they endured is almost beyond comprehension and truly admirable. An Uncommon Woman is an intriguing, romantic, award-worthy historical that will stay with me for a very long time.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.*
Absolutely loved it! Laura Frantz does not disappoint.
An Uncommon Woman is yet another reason why Laura Frantz is one of my all time favorite and must read authors. It was great to be taken back in time to the eighteenth century, early American history. I felt like I was right there living the adventures and struggles Clay and Tessa were experiencing.
An Uncommon Woman is getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. Readers who love Revolutionary War era novels will not want to miss this one.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
A wonderful story!
There is such a beauty to Laura Frantz’s writing style that resonates with my soul. Slipping into her stories is like slipping into my coziest pajamas with a cup of hot chocolate. Evocative, beautifully descriptive, with the ability to transport me to a different time that is at once familiar and yet foreign. . .
I have to wonder if each new book of hers will automatically become my favorite. I loved An Uncommon Woman! For all the reasons I just mentioned and more. The language is so natural for the time, with a strong flavor of Scotch-American filled with “’twas” and “aye” and references to everyday objects from the time that I had to look up to figure out what they were – though I did understand from the context – I just like to know for certain.
I loved Tessa’s desire for fripperies like ribbons and fans and yet her ability to pole the ferry across the raging river and grind the meal for her huge family every day. She was a study in contrasts, a true frontier woman with a heart of gold.
Alternating between fear and faith, Tessa clung to what she knew about God amid the tragedies of her life.
Clay was fascinating as well, and not only because he had two differently colored eyes. The Lenape Indians had taken him when he was just a boy – after they massacred his family. After living with them for years, he was restored to his Quaker relatives. The ways this shaped his outlook was so interesting. Clay struggled with a fear that if he loved someone, he would lose them and therefore kept his distance from everyone.
Tessa’s Aunt Hester was a fun addition to the story. Despite being an ancient spinster, she had matchmaking on her mind and was convinced Clay and Tessa belonged together. Her not-so-subtle attempts and throwing them together were rather sweet.
An Uncommon Woman was full of adventure, suspense, romance and faith. If you enjoy stories with strong heroines, you will delight in this one!
Read my review of An Uncommon Woman by Laura Frantz at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.