Reluctant debutante Keziah Montgomery lives beneath the weighty expectations of her staunch Confederate family, forced to keep her epilepsy secret for fear of a scandal. As the tensions of the Civil War arrive on their doorstep in Savannah, Keziah sees little cause for balls and courting. Despite her discomfort, she cannot imagine an escape from her familial confines–until her old schoolmate … Micah shows her a life-changing truth that sets her feet on a new path . . . as a conductor in the Underground Railroad.Dr. Micah Greyson never hesitates to answer the call of duty, no matter how dangerous, until the enchanting Keziah walks back into his life and turns his well-ordered plans upside down. Torn between the life he has always known in Savannah and the fight for abolition, Micah struggles to discern God’s plan amid such turbulent times.Battling an angry fiancé, a war-tattered brother, bounty hunters, and their own personal demons, Keziah and Micah must decide if true love is worth the price . . . and if they are strong enough to survive the unyielding pain of war.
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Tara Johnson’s debut novel, Engraved on the Heart, is a real treasure! She brought the Civil War era to life with a very engaging plot and characters. I look forward to reading her next novel! Highly recommended.
I was drawn into this story right from the start and blissfully held captive until the last page. Tara Johnson’s writing is so immersive that I felt like I was right there in the sticky heat of Savannah, Georgia. Take a journey back in time through the pages of this wonderful, story of faith. With a poignant reminder that we are all priceless treasures.
Keziah is such a gentle soul. She is soft-spoken and kind. She has a heart for others, especially those she see’s being treated unfairly, those being treated less than the beautiful creation of God that they are. Keziah suffers from epilepsy and has been made to feel that she isn’t worthy of love and a future because of her condition.
Dr. Micha Greyson has returned to Savannah after obtaining his medical degree in Philadelphia. Reunited with his old schoolmate, Keziah, he invites her to an Abolition meeting that will change the course of their lives. With secrets to uncover and dangerous Underground Railroad missions, you are sure to be kept turning pages!
I absolutely loved this poignant story and give it 5-stars! If you enjoy stories set in the civil war time period, you won’t want to miss this fresh story. I encourage you to purchase a copy for yourself.
(I receive complimentary books 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.)
If I could give this book more stars, I totally would! I absolutely loved it! This debut book from Tara Johnson is excellent! It’s very well written. She had me hooked from the beginning. There is such a positive message in this book. It’s set during a very dark time in U.S. history, but there is a light of hope in this. I love that it had to do with the Underground Railroad. I also love that the theme seems to be that God can use you for His plans even if you think you are too broken to be of any use. I highly recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Engraved On The Heart was filled with wonderful characters that drew you in from page one. Join Kizzie as she faces her fears and listen to God’s calling no matter the cost.
I only read Christian fiction and When I read her books they are so realistic I feel like I am there and seeing what is transpiring. I felt like I went through the Cicil War with the characters. One of my favorite authors.
A wonderful debut novel by author Tara Johnson! The author does a splendid job of capturing the tension and emotions of the times. Brace yourself for lots of twists and turns in this compelling Civil War love story with an ending that truly satisfies.
Engraved on the Heart by Tara Johnson is a novel set during the Civil War. Living in Savannah, Georgia during this tumultuous time Keziah Montgomery is not your typical Southern belle. Her dedicated Confederate family cling to their southern roots and she is forced to trail along until a classmate comes back into her life challenging her to think of others. Her prayer becomes, “Lord I want to make a difference. Help me to make a difference.” And her life is changed forever! This story brought the struggles of the Confederate South to life. Would I have had the courage to stand up for what is right regardless of the price? Engraved on the Heart had it all – laughter, romance, tears and at times utter nail-biting suspense. This story is worth numerous reads over and over. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Johnson writes next. “Think about all the good that can come from one person igniting a spark in a single man. One person’s life can touch so many.”
In her debut novel, Engraved on the Heart, Tara Johnson has authored a captivating story of courage and conviction in the face of hatred and danger. This book is truly an inspiring piece of historical fiction with memorable characters and significant themes that resonate with purpose and meaning.
Ms. Johnson’s thoughtful research and careful attention to historical details thoroughly enriches the story with depth and authenticity. The plot flows easily from scene to scene, effortlessly building to an ending that is utterly surprising yet intensely satisfying.
The main characters are endearing and unforgettable. Having a genuine vulnerability that makes them wholly relatable and inspiring, they possess the strength and determination to survive and thrive despite the many physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges they face. As the story unfolds, the characters struggle through real, heart-wrenching trials that test their faith exceedingly. Yet, even as the struggles grow darker and more desperate, the light of God’s grace and mercy shines through with purpose, acceptance, hope, and love.
Well-written and extremely compelling, this book is perfectly enthralling. Engraved on the Heart is tender, emotionally stirring, and ultimately uplifting. It is a novel that I will not soon forget. The impression it has forged on my thoughts and on my heart is sure to be a lasting one. This novel was enjoyable, thought-provoking, and moving. I recommend it enthusiastically.
*I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
This is a beautiful and heartwarming debut novel from Tara Johnson!
I wasn’t sure what to expect but the cover and the blurb were so atractive for me because I love Civil War novels.
Well this book didn’t disappoint, and I’m amazed a debut novel could be so good.
Keziah Montgomery has been misunderstood so many years because of her epilepsy spells. Her parents see her as a week and limited person who must be shielded from the hardships of life. Yet she dreams of a life full of love that seems so out of reach… until her schoolbum appears as a grown man, a physician none the less. Micah has been in love with Kizzie since childhood but has always feared of telling her. Her family is Confederate and his father fighted for the abolitionists. This one of the reasons her family despises him and ignores his suggestions for treating Kizzie’s malady. Meanwhile Micah opens her eyes to the situations most slaves endure and quite unexpectedly Kizzie starts to function, with great sangre, as a conductor of slaves to freedom “underground railroad”. At the same time the war developes and Kizzie’s brother is reported dead. Her father falls ill and on her deathbed makes Kizzie promise she’ll marry an older and despicable man to ensure her and her mother’s care. Micah Words for the “underground railroad” too and he’s shocked when he realizes Kizzie is also part of it. I won’t spoil you the story, but things get very complicated… I was so captivated with this book that I couldn’t put it down!
I loved the characters: Micah with his passion for the cause and his generous heart, Keziah has an impacting transformation through out the story. She turns from inescure to a compassionate and strong woman ready to defend what she believes to be true, even at the cost of her life.
The romance between Micah and Kizzie is tender and clean. I think there’s more drama and suspense than romance in it, and I like that.
The secondary characters are so endearing, especially Hiriam, he’s my favorite and Ma Linnie is hilarious, so she added a bit of humor to the story. This novel has everything: love, forgiveness, drama, adventure and suspense.
And it has an enlighting message behind: about trusting God and letting Him guide you in your choices. About prayer and trust in God.
I loved when Kizzie realizes that God is enough for her, she can lack anything else if that’s His Will, but He’ll never forsake us but quite the contrary, He loves us madly.
I would definitely s book to anyone who likes historicals. It’s a beautiful story that will surely touch your hearts. And you’ll shed a tear or two…
This will be one that I’ll reread from time to time.
Well done Tara Johnson! Looking forward to reading more of your books!
Hopefully Micah and Kizzie will continue to appear in a sequel. I would love to know what happens to Kizzie’s family after the war ends…
Engraved on the Heart by Tara Johnson
After having her eyes opened to the plight of the slaves, Keziah found herself in a conundrum. Helping the slaves would endanger herself and her family. And, if her family ever found out, they would most likely consider it treason, especially with her brother fighting the Yankees. I found myself wondering if I would have the courage to make the choices she did.
Micah was a noble hero. He could have lived a much easier life but chose to sacrifice for those in need. The way he had always loved Keziah was very sweet, as was the way he tried to protect her and help her in every way he could.
While there were elements of romance, there was more suspense and conflict. An arranged marriage to a much older (and despicable) man, Keziah’s epilepsy, a cousin who came at the worst possible time, deception, fear, death, and ultimately hope fill the pages.
I loved the way the author related the story of this dark era in such a way that it was not dark. It was appropriately somber yet with faith and hope intermingled with the struggles. It was heartwarming and a pleasure to read.
This review was originally posted on AmongTheReads.net.
Get a preview of Engraved on the Heart at amongTheReads.net
I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers for giving me this copy of the book. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
What a great book to get lost in, and it held me to the end, and then I wanted more.
The author sets this book in the deep South, Savannah to be exact, and at the cusp of the Civil War, and we put faces to different points of view. We also find our main character, Kezzie suffers from a condition that could have her end up in an institution, and Micah has a father with abolitionist roots, not something either wants during this time in history.
This is not a sweet romantic novel, no this is a read that will have you wondering who is going to survive, a book with a lot of facts and action in it, and one that you will be screaming “No” to.
I received this book through the Tyndale Blog Network, and was not required to give a positive review.
The story line in this book grabbed my attention and my heart within the first thirty pages. Once my heart and mind was engaged, I was pulled through this read in one sitting losing sleep. ( As I’ve heard said, “ Who ever bragged about how much fun or memories the made sleeping.” Sometimes it’s overrated!)
I did enjoy the characters we are introduced to in this read. Some with great courage…so much so that it made me wonder what I would do with such circumstances. For Civil War buffs or those interested in the Underground Railroad, this will be a must read.
As usual, I find great reads hard to review and not reveal spoilers so just go buy the book! You will not regret it. This novel will touch your heart. Enjoy the quotes!
“It’s plain as plain can be, Doc. That pretty little thing has engraved her name on your heart.”
…where man sees limitation, the Almighty gave me a kind family to serve and a sweet girl to watch grow up..”
“Whatever God wills He will accomplish. I give myself to Him, however he would have me serve. “ Micah from Engraved on the Heart
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own
This one was wonderful!!! The story takes place in early Civil War era Savannah, and Keziah is working as a conductor for the Underground Railroad. Despite her epilepsy and the lack of understanding from her family, Keziah is determined to let her life count for something. Micah and Keziah’s love story is enduring and endearing, and the hand of God is so clearly involved in their calling. Tara Johnson wrote a masterful piece of historical fiction!
5 Stars. I’m always happy to find well-done inspirational novels to share with my students, and Tara Johnson’s debut novel fits that bill! Engraved on the Heart features a sweet love story set in the South during the Civil War time period. The hero and heroine face down family and culture to join the abolitionists in standing for the value of all people.
The main character works through her own issues on personal worth, as well. Instead of thinking of herself as “trash, addled, and worthless” she learns to trust God’s perspective. “‘But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us . . . I make you worthy, little one. You are loved. You are valued. You are my treasure, whom I purchased for a beautiful purpose. I am the God who sees you.’” A timely message for all readers!
“Don’t fail. Tonight of all nights, don’t fail.” This is the intriguing first line of a beautifully woven story that kept me captivated til the end! This richly written debut novel is a story of love, courage, and commitment with realistic characters who experience complications and danger as they grow in faith and hope. I loved the strong spiritual threads that weave the story together as Ma Linnie and Hiriam, share their faith and wisdom with Kizzie and Micah throughout the story and consequently with the reader also. I highly recommend this book–a must read for Civil War and Christian fiction fans! I have added Tara Johnson to my list of favorite authors.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher but was under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
This book fills my reader heart with satisfaction. Extraordinary and everyday heroes and heroines rise to the occasion, make difficult choices and do good despite the conflict and turmoil surrounding them.
Keziah Montgomery is a painfully shy young woman who seems trapped in a glass tower by her overbearing and perpetually disappointed family members and her embarrassing and misunderstood medical condition.
Childhood friend Micah Greyson reenters Keziah’s life like a ray of spring sunshine after a long, hard winter. This childhood friends to sweethearts romance and, be still my heart, precious terms of endearment have me walking through a fog of romantic contentedness.
What makes this book truly wonderful is the unapologetic representation of Keziah’s life experience in the South as she grows from a naive debutant into a courageous young woman. I highly recommend this story and eagerly anticipate this author’s future works!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Loved it!
Another aspect of living during civil war times and the courage of some people who followed their convictions in spite of their society’s expectations.
loved the premise of the story. Two people from a different social class and can’t be together because of it.,
start working for the underground railroad unbeknownst to each other. The story is nicely described and has unexpected twists and turns A very enjoyable read and always looked forward to reading more
Interesting.