Cristina Stiles is left to fend for herself and her two young children while her husband goes off to fight in the Confederate army. She also has to deal with two rogue Yankee soldiers who’ve beaten her, stolen her food, and keep coming back to cause more trouble. Jack Fuller is a God-fearing Christian fighting for the Union. During a surprise encounter, he shoots and kills a Rebel soldier. In his … In his final breaths, the Rebel asks Jack to deliver a letter to his wife—and he agrees. But when he arrives at Cristina’s small farm in West Virginia, she assumes Jack is one of the Yankee trouble-makers, trains her rifle on him, and fires. As he lies on the ground bleeding, he explains the purpose of his visit, and out of a sense of obligation, she decides to nurse him back to health.
What will happen when Cristina discovers Jack is the one who made her a widow? Will her rebel heart forgive him—or finish him off?
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It has been awhile since I have read an author MacLaren book and this one hit the spot. This was a story of survival, family, and romance during the Civil War. The author does not shy away with some of the grittiness, the deaths, the evil of some men which makes these characters feel all the more precious.
War is horrible and tiring and Union soldier Jack Fuller has seen enough of it. So has apparently Rebel soldier Orville Stiles. When they meet that fateful day on the battlefield, Orville’s actions reverberates through Jack’s life along with those of Orville’s wife and two children.
This is not a story of a rich plantation owner or a debutante looking for a gentleman, this is a story of a widow who is doing her best to survive and make sure her children survive the war.
The characters came alive to me and I especially felt for 10-year old Elias who is growing up way too fast and doing and thinking too many man’s thoughts.
Jack was a noble hero, who was forgiving and brought a calm to this hurting family, even though he carried a dark, dark secret.
Cristina was a tough, no-nonsense woman who would fight for all she holds dear. We meet her in a very dangerous predicament and that opening scene will stand out to me as one of the most harrowing I have read in a long time. I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
I received a copy of this novel from the author through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Civil war romances have long been a favorite genre of mine. I’ve been reading about the civil war since I was eight and reading picture books to my siblings. I have always loved learning about the civil war and how it changed America. While it is such a sad and hard time it was also a good time.
The blurb told me that I would enjoy the book, I knew that I may be slightly annoyed with the romance but I wasn’t, not at all, I did dislike that Jack and Cristina kissed when they did, I felt that it was too soon, not to mention inappropriate since they barely knew each other and he had given her the news of her husband’s death.
The kids, oh, my heart broke for the kids who were without their father and lived in a fearful time, but, my, Elias was brave for a kid and I loved how he took care of everything he could for his family and how he let his sister follow along even when h didn’t want to have her follow. It was so sweet.
Jack, sweet Jack! He really needed some help at times. Between being shot, giving the news of Cristina’s husband’s death, and being around a boy that hated him he really could have used a friend … Which he had in God, I liked Jack’s simple faith. He was a truly good character.
I liked the way the whole book tied together, and the slight mystery was well added though I didn’t love the way the bad guy was so nasty. While he made a good bad guy since you know, he was a bad guy and you weren’t supposed to like him. I didn’t need his point of view.
A sweet romance that is perfect for a rainy day.
Better for older readers given the bad guy.
This book was provided courtesy of the author, through Interviews & Reviews.
Her Rebel Heart is a stirring story of love, faith, and forgiveness amidst the backdrop of the civil war. The writing style put me right into the middle of the action and stirred up my emotions from the very start.
I loved Jack’s character. He’s a man of conviction who sticks by his faith even in the midst of the evils of war. When he shoots a rebel soldier who makes a request of him with his last breath, he has no choice but to follow through.
He meets Cristina Stiles from the wrong end of a gun and ends up convalescing in her home full of rebels. As he recovers he finds himself praying for this little family, and becoming intertwined in their lives. Jack is not afraid to share his faith, but he is afraid to tell Cristina that he’s the one who killed her husband.
Can Christina’s newfound faith, and forgiveness along with some divine intervention build a foundation for a new life for both Jack and the family he’s come to love?
This story has depth to the characters that you don’t find in every
book. Elias grabbed my heart with his loyalty to his mother, and his desire to be the man of the house in his father’s absence. Christina’s sincere desire to care for her family, and explore her faith in a real way endeared her to me. Clara made me smile with her no nonsense personality, and I wanted to jump in the book and take out the antagonists myself.
Overall this is a great historical read that I recommend.
This book was given to me by the author through Interviews and Reviews and this is my honest assessment of the book.
What I think you should know:
Her Rebel Heart by Sharlene MacLaren is Christian Historical Fiction. It is set in 1863 West Virginia. Christina Stiles is the wife of a Confederate soldier, who now lives in Union occupied territory. When Christiana mistakes Union Lieutenant Jack Fuller for Yankee raiders she shoots him, only to find out he was there to notify her of her Husband’s death.
What I think about this Book:
What a beautiful story! I loved how MacLaren portrayed Jack and Christiana, showing that even though they were seperated by sides of the war they were still people. Elias and Catherina were heartbreaking to see what they experienced. Mrs. Clara was such a fun character, who I could easily picture as my grandmother. I loved how Jack was able to introduce Christina to God. This is a touching story of God’s love and faithfulness in no matter our surroundings. If you have never read MacLaren, this is a great place to start!
I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
This is an enjoyable Civil War novel. I enjoyed the characters of Jack and Christina and her children. This showed some of the worst and the best parts of a war. I love how people help each other when there is a crisis. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
I love Sharlene MacLaren and her books. I jumped at the opportunity to read and review her first installment from her Hearts of Honor series, Her Rebel Heart. I was by far disappointed with this story. It is probably my favorite I have read by her to date.
Her Rebel Heart introduces readers to Cristina who trying to keep it together with her children at home while her husband is serving in the Confederate army. She finds herself having to deal with two terrible Yankee soldiers who has abused her and stolen from her. She wounds up shooting another, Jake, who was not there to cause her harm but to give her message from her dying husband. Cristina and Jake are drawn to one another as she nurses him back to health. I thought it was sweet how protective they became of one another. I was curious as to how Jake’s secret was going to affect Cristina.
I would love to give Her Rebel Heart one hundred stars if I could. I highly recommend it for readers who love a sweet historical set during the US Civil War.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
My thoughts on Her Rebel Heart:
I love history. If you’re new here you may not know that I reenact the Civil War and in fact, that’s how I met my husband. I’ll have to share that story sometime as it’s pretty fun. Anyway, long story short we reenact on the Confederate side but I’ve got some great Yankee friends too.
Seeing history brought to life in books is always fun. And it’s even more fun when they get most of their facts right. Of course, most people who are reading books like this don’t have as much knowledge as I do and won’t be as critical of the historical aspects as I am. I can’t help it!
Guys. I have to be honest. The cover made me cringe. That’s not what a Southern widow would be wearing. And the uniform is off too but that’s again something I would only know because I’ve reenacted since I was 7 and I’m in my mid-30s now.
So, I just flipped past that cover to read the book because hello I love a good book!
Now, I want to say I loved the book. The author has done her homework on the setting and the people of the area she’s depicting. I was impressed. Really the book was very well done. It’s easy to read, the characters reach out and grab you, and the storyline is unique. Also, I love that she didn’t use the all Confederates are bad and all Yankees are good mindset that I see a lot of.
This is one book I can highly recommend as the only bad thing I found about it was that I didn’t like the cover. I’ll definitely be following this author to see what else she has out.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Her Rebel Heart
Her Rebel Heart is a historical set in 1863 during the war. It was scary times. Cristina is left alone with her husband off to war. A bad soldier is after her. Jack shows up with some news but she shoots him because she think he is the bad one.
There is so much more to the story. I loved Jack and Cristina story. Another great book by the author. Cristina was so brave and a wonderful mother.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.
With a beautiful cover, a slowly-developing romance, delightful characters, and more, Sharlene MacLaren’s “Her Rebel Heart” is an absorbing, heartfelt read. Her writing won me over with “A Love to Behold” last year, and I was thrilled to be able to read “Her Rebel Heart.” Historical fiction has always been my first love when it comes to genres, and the additional fact that this novel features the Civil War made it appeal to me all the more. Exploring the narrative through a Christian lens is particularly enlightening when considering the big picture: how America as a country became so divided, and also the impact on families on both sides.
Several historical facts set “Her Rebel Heart” apart from other historical fiction written about thjs time period. For instance, I am very interested in learning more about the secession of West Virginia from Virginia, which as we know became permanent. I found it interesting to learn that some West Virginians maintained loyalty to the South, including the main character in this novel. In the spirit of historical accuracy and honesty, I give MacLaren kudos for two of the villainous characters, who are Union soldiers, because this demonstrates that not every Union soldier had good morals, nor did every Confederate have bad ethics. Also, by employing the dialect of the West Virginia town, the author adds authenticity and cultural flavor to the narrative.
As for Cristina’s newfound faith, she starts changing her habits, reading the Bible, and coming to Jesus when she realizes the negative effect that her attitude has had on her children, causing her son especially to feel callous toward others. As Jack comments, “Sure seems like you’ve got the hand of God on you, protecting you time and again, and I’m wondering whether you’ve been aware of that, or whether the idea’s entirely new to you.” Sometimes all it takes is a nudge in the right direction or a kind word to set someone on the right path, and we should all strive to offer that kindness to others. As in “Her Rebel Heart”, one never knows where it may lead.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Her Rebel Heart by author Sharlene MacLaren is a Christian Historical Romance set in West Virginia during the Civil War. It is an extraordinary book written by a master wordsmith. This is not a book to be missed.
Throughout the book the writing style is consistent and easy to read. The story easily grabbed my attention. From page one I was invested in this smooth flowing tale. This page turner had surprises along with twists and turns that made it difficult to stop reading. I loved every part of it.
This is the story of Cristina Stiles, mother of two. Her husband is off fighting Union soldiers while she is left at home to care for their children and farm. It is also the tale of Union officer, Jack Fuller. He is a strong Christian and soldier. Jack takes a message to Christina, and their story explodes off of the pages. Author MacLaren is a professional when it comes to breathtaking love stories.
Author MacLaren reminds readers that she is an award winning author with this book. The characters are multi-layered and realistic. Even secondary characters were lovable and detestable. Some of the horrendous things that happened during the Civil War are mentioned without going into details. Her novel is well researched and extremely well thought. It is so well written it was not difficult to travel back in time to West Virginia and feel like part of the story.
For me, conversation in a book is a major part. Dialog in Her Rebel Heart sounded authentic and flowed effortlessly. It was plentiful which added to my reading enjoyment. I could picture the characters talking. “My faith’s prob’ly smaller than that,” Cristina said quietly.
There are many life lessons to be learned in this riveting book. Trusting God, having faith, forgiving, and second chances are all common issues with today and the past. Author MacLaren does a beautiful job with each one of them. Faith is in the forefront without being hidden in her book. That is refreshing because not all Christian fiction books do that. Sometimes the inspirational message of faith and God is covered or subdued.
I enjoyed reading about and experiencing Christina’s faith journey. Many of the words brought a smile to my face as I read them. “Hearing the prayer, brief though it was, filled Cristina with a wonderful sense of peace and awe.”
I highly recommend this sweet, clean Christian romance. It is a lovely story that would be beautiful made into a movie. This would make an excellent choice for a reader’s club. There is so much to discuss. At the back of the book are discussion questions to assist groups. An author page is also included. I happily rated this book a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own true words.
Her Rebel Heart by Sharlene MacLaren is a marvellous Christian historical novel set in 1863 at the height of the American Civil War.
The novel is about the faithfulness of God. He is there in the good and the bad times. “You’ve got the hand of God on you, protecting you.” Even when we do not know God, He is there, knowing, loving and protecting us.
Within the book we witness the birth of a new Christian. It is beautiful to watch as a character opens her heart to God. “Why should God – if He existed – pay her any mind? She had nothing to offer Him in return.” The free gift of grace is sometimes something people cannot comprehend in a world where everything costs something. We need to come to God just as we are and He will transform us from the inside out.
In building a relationship with God, we need to talk to Him in prayer, read our Bibles and meet with other Christians at church. A new Christian has awe, wonder and excitement at all these things. May we never become stale and lose our passion for God. Each time we read our Bibles, it is a fresh word from God. We may read familiar passages over and over but God will bring new insight just when we need it.
There is a wonderful community feel to the whole novel. Needs are met. Fellowship and friendship extended to those in need as we remember the instruction to take care of the widows and orphans.
Sharlene MacLaren has produced a delightful set of characters. I loved her portrayal of the children. She perfectly captured their mannerisms.
Her Rebel Heart was a powerful read about a faithful God who loves us, hears our prayers and never leaves us.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The author has captured a vivid account of the war that pits brother against brother and neighbor against neighbor. It was easy to get captured by the beauty of the writing because it was so enchanting. I loved everything about the book starting with Cristina. Her husband has gone off to fight in the war and left her to care for their two children and keep the farm going. Her strength is impressive as she raises the children alone in territory that could dangerous as soldiers are nearby.
When Jack and Cristina’s lives crash into each other it brings a depth of reality to the story. The author shows two sides of the war and how it can change people. I won’t say how Jack ended up at Cristina’s farm but it will be an emotional adventure for readers. I absolutely loved the faith that Jack shared with Cristina. There are moments in the story where he explains who God is to Cristina that was powerful yet tender.
The story is not without danger and secrets. What happens when Cristina finds out how her husband died? In the story readers will read how forgiveness is something that may be hard for some characters. With outstanding characters and a lesson in forgiveness and trust the author weaves a movie worthy story that will please historical fiction readers. You don’t want to miss this story that promotes this author as one of the best historical fiction writers to follow for 2020.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Wonderful detail of life during the Civil War.
A heartwarming story set in West Virginia around 1863. The author has developed wonderful characters in Cristina and her children, Clara the neighbor and Jack the Yankee soldier they nurse back to health. Living in newly acquired Union territory, these folks struggle to decide who to side with. Unfortunately the bad apples in the army camp make this an even more difficult choice. The wounding of Jack creates wonderful tension in this most enjoyable book.
Realizing that the Lord has had his hand on her life all these years, gives Cristina the courage and strength to save herself when in dire circumstances. Learning more about faith and the grace of God brings this young widow into a new level of joy and happiness. Robbery, physical beating, kidnapping and fire all add to a story you won’t want to put down until finished.
This digital copy was received through Whitaker House and CelebrateLit. The comments and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
Her Rebel Heart fully describes the heroine and all she’s faced and has to face in this novel!
GREAT characterizations – GREAT Continuity of research and timelines – GREAT Story-telling as per MacLaren’s norm… HARD to put this down due to the twists and turns – UNEXPECTED ONES that left me surprised and a bit of that edge-of-my-seat kind of feelings – SIGH-WORTHY ending made me SMILE BIG!
LOVED THIS!
Highly recommend to CIVIL WAR ERA ENTHUSIAST/READERS!