Will war bring them love or will they be Lost in the Storm!Lavena, a journalist during the Civil War, wants to become a war correspondent. She finally gets her chance, but there’s a catch. She has to get an interview from a war hero who has refused to tell his story to every other journalist, and she has to accomplish this impossible task in a month or she’ll lose her job.Captain Cage, the war … job.
Captain Cage, the war hero, has a secret that will destroy his military career and reputation. Now, a new journalist is trying to get him to tell what he’s been hiding. He wants to ignore her, but from the moment she came into camp, he can’t get her out of his mind.
Leading up to the turbulent Battles for the city of Chattanooga, will Lavena and Cage find the courage to love and forgive, or will they be swept away by their past mistakes that don’t want to stay buried?
Meet the Ladies of Oberlin, the causes they’re willing to fight for, and the men who capture their hearts.
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Lavina, a young reporter and determined to report on the truth of the Civil War, go by train to the front lines of the war. Carrying the terrible hurt from the lies of her imprisoned father, she isn’t ready to get close to any man.
Cage Jones, captain of the Ohio seventh brigade is carrying some hurt and guilt of his own. Taken by Lavina’s truth and determination, he wrestles with the idea to be truthful with her regarding the battle he received a medal for.
The characters were compelling, yet vulnerable, and the story came alive with the vivid descriptions of the battlefront.
Lost in the Storm is a story of forgiveness and a love that conquers all wrongs.
My Thoughts on Lost in the Storm:
History is a passion of mine just like the author and I could not wait to dive into this historical fiction book. I love the Civil War, especially so I knew that delving into this book was going to pique my interest. The cover is gorgeous and definitely drew me in.
Unfortunately for me, I have not read the first book in this series. However, that will be remedied post haste. Because I really enjoyed this book I know that I’ll love the first and third book, I’m just going to have to not so patiently wait for book three to come out.
New to me author who I’m going to be sure to follow. Highly recommend this author and this series. I can’t recommend her other series by reading them yet but I do believe they’ve been added to my to be read pile and I’ll be sure to check back in with what I thought. They sound really interesting to me!
The characters come to life right before my eyes as they lept off the page and were walking around me. That is to say, I really felt like I was a part of this book and could forget for a while about the pile of laundry and dishes that were waiting for me to wash or the kids who might want supper.
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.
A seminal period in American history, the Civil War stands as a stark reminder of the cost of division and enslavement. In an increasingly polarized world, remembering the transgressions of the past becomes ever more important in order to avoid falling into similar patterns of wickedness. This is one of the ways that literature serves society, through both nonfiction and fiction, and it’s one of the reasons that historical fiction is my favorite genre. As such, I am always on the lookout for new authors to add to my to-read list, and I am delighted to have found one in Tamera Lynn Kraft and this second book in the Daughters of Oberlin series. It can stand alone, but there is some background mentioned in this story.
Opening in September 1863 in Cleveland, Ohio, “Lost in the Storm” immediately appealed to me for a variety of reasons. As an Ohio native, I am somewhat familiar with the geography, and on a more abstract level, I was drawn to the title and cover. Before long, the characters became dear to me as well. I empathized with Betsy Teagan in the first few chapters and hope to read more of her story in the next book. Lavena Falcon is an early suffragette and the sole female reporter for The Cleveland Leader. A graduate of Oberlin College, she is determined to become the war correspondent for both laudable and personal reasons. As the story unfolds, the anger that she harbors in her heart collides with unexpected attraction. Similarly, Cage skirts the issue of talking about the event that made him a war hero. Both are hiding shameful events from their pasts that continue to haunt their futures and the present.
Kraft also skillfully writes about the privations of war without employing graphic details. Indeed, “War caused so much heartache.” This was the first I had heard of sutlers, and these merchants certainly harmed those they served, offering the temptation to fall into alcohol and fornication. I felt sorrow and compassion for the soldiers in this story, including Nate, for the horrors that they experienced at such young ages, for being there for their fellow soldiers on both sides and often losing their friends. Most of all, I appreciate the hope and redemption that the author weaves into the narrative, demonstrating that God truly never leaves nor forsakes us, and that He is able to turn every situation into good for those who love Him.
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.
Lost in the Storm by Tamera Lynn Kraft is an intense and emotional story set during the Civil War, a volatile time in our country when families were torn apart not only by death but by different beliefs and convictions. Lavena is determined to be a career journalist and has set her sights on an interview with Captain Jones. He certainly is a hero and yet one who has refused to grant any interviews. Why? What is he hiding? Will Lavena be able to sort out her distrust of men to see the truth? And what happens when one realizes that tragedy has occurred because of one’s mistakes? Can that be forgiven? Can one forgive oneself? The author has a vivid way with words and has written descriptive scenes that stir the reader’s imagination. It is easy to tell that she has researched well the historical timeframe of the story and the heartwrenching subject of the Civil War and its effects on not only the soldiers but their loved ones as well. I found it interesting that there would be a female reporter at the front lines, basically a war correspondent, during this era. The story drew me in at the beginning and kept my interest throughout as it moves quickly and is infused with intense drama, emotional tension, and a sweet, but not untroubled romance. The main characters have depth and reality, and their emotions, strengths, and foibles resonate well with readers. Lost in the Storm is not a story for the faint of heart but it is a story of the very real struggles of courageous people with strong beliefs and who sometimes get lost in the pandemonium of those struggles.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required, and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
This story is one of the best I have read from this author. She has surpassed my expectations of an historical novel and achieved an epic journey about the Civil War. There is so much I want to share but I can’t without giving the story away. This should be turned into a movie right away. With details that jump off the pages I felt like I was on the battlefield with the men. You can hear bullets flying by your ear and cannons going off that make you jump. It was very vividly described. The author does a great job of describing injuries but not in a way that would be uncomfortable to read about.
Lavena is a woman on a mission. She wants to be a war correspondent and somehow talks her boss into letting her join a group of men who are on the battlefield. She wants to write a story that will secure her position at the newspaper. The author gives details of the time period that shows how thorough her research was. I loved the danger that exploded across the pages and how the author weaves faith in characters. Lavena is still harboring something from her past about her father. Her refusal to forgive him is holding her back from trusting God.
I loved reading about Captain Cage and how much he wanted to protect his men as well as Lavena. He holds a secret that could destroy his career. The author uses Captain Cage as a perfect example of someone who thinks their sin is too big for God to forgive. His guilt follows him everywhere and he doesn’t think he can ever forgive himself. I loved how humble he was and how he wanted to be set free from the burden he has carried.
The story is filled with danger, secrets, spies and a great lesson in forgiveness. As you read the story you will realize that God doesn’t think of one sin worse than another. We all sin and I loved how the author pointed out that we shouldn’t judge others. I remember the story in the Bible where Jesus says, “ Ye without sin, cast the first stone.” Don’t miss this epic adventure where forgiveness and trust become the focal point to lead several characters back to God.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
This outstanding Christian historical fiction novel is very well-written, remarkably complex, and demonstrates the power of God in the lives of those who genuinely seek Him. This reader enjoyed the main character, Laveena, and her friend Betsy, both from Red Sky Over America, and those who Laveena spent time with in late 1863. The characters are likable and drawn with care, the plot is finely woven with historical details, and spiritual lessons are applicable today. I could painfully see myself in some of the attitudes and lessons.
Laveena wants to be the first woman war correspondent. After a terrible betrayal by her father and an excellent education at Oberlin College, she wants to be a journalist who tells the truth rather than an opportunist who damages lives in the guise of writing the “news”. Included in her priorities are her career, equality and voting for women, and an end to slavery. The paper she writes for under the byline of “Lee”, the Cleveland Leader, is going to promote someone to cover the Civil War battles, but its publisher will not allow a woman in the position.
Close friend and roommate Betsy receives a letter from her husband’s commanding officer. Nate is missing, believed to have deserted the Union army. She is devastated, as she had sent Nate a letter telling him she no longer wanted to wait for him while he is off on his “causes”. She was serious when saying that if he left her again, even for the army, she wouldn’t wait for him. Betsy does not believe Nate would ever desert, fears for his safety, still loves him, and wants Laveena to find him while she is out for the newspaper. Turned down for the job, Laveena can’t, until she learns that Nate’s captain is The Cage Jones, the hero of Cedar Mountain. He has refused to give anyone an interview, so Laveena says she has an “in” to get the interview if she gets the position. She is given one month to get the interview or lose her job completely.
For Cage to release the secret he held onto for over a year is much easier said than done, even if he was ordered to cooperate. The more time he spends around Laveena and sees her interact with his men and write their stories, the more he falls for her, against his better judgment. Laveena, for her determination to never be hurt by a man again, is also falling for him but doesn’t want to relinquish her secret to him. Laveena listens to Jed, Lieutenant and unofficial chaplain, regarding how to get Cage to open up. I especially enjoyed Laveena, Cage, Jed, Amon, Betsy, and Nate.
This in-depth, complex novel takes us through life in the army camp, what punishments are meted to deserters and disobedient soldiers, and shows just how young many of the men were and how difficult it was for them in battle. I like how the title is used throughout the story; it is very applicable. The faith struggles of some of the characters is realistic. The story itself is remarkable and captivating. I highly recommend Lost in the Storm to those who appreciate well-written Christian historical fiction set in a crucial time in the Civil War and includes faith in the Lord, spiritual lessons, a hope for romance, and attention to the issues of the day.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy from Celebrate Lit, and this is my honest review.
By 1863 the civil war, after just two years, had claimed the lives of many men and sent equally as many or more home with catastrophic injuries. War correspondents were needed and yet Lavena was not considered because she was a woman. Finally allowed to prove herself, this outspoken, courageous young woman makes her way to join the Ohio Seventh Regiment. What follows are secrets, regrets and difficult choices. How can she possibly forgive those who have betrayed her trust or will she finally realize that no one, including herself, can live up to her expectations?
Captain Cage Jones, Chaplain Jed and Lieutenant Nate are wonderful heroes portrayed with great integrity, each striving to do their part under very trying circumstances. Will the truth of their stories hurt or help? Heroism is found in the most unexpected places, and war brings out some of the best of it.
The rich historical details brought me an even better understanding of what the war must have been like for those who were there – the grief at the loss of comrades, the horror of losing a limb in the hospital and especially the realization of the importance of forgiveness and a relationship with God.
An e-copy of this wonderful novel was received through Mt Zion Ridge Press and CelebrateLit. The impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.
Lavena is one of those strong heroines that you cannot get enough of. First of all, she doesn’t let the fact that she’s a woman stop her from going after her dream of being a journalist. And when her friend needed her help, she didn’t even let something as scary as war stop her from helping her friend. Throughout the book you got to see times of vulnerability in Lavena too, and to me it just made her a well rounded character. She was charming, strong, courageous, determined and everything I wanted her to be. She is a character to remember for certain.
Captain Cage, well he was a tricky character to figure out. I knew he had a secret, but I just couldn’t figure it out. I guessed at a couple of things, but then Kraft surprised me at the truth, and shared it at just the right time in the story. Here’s the thing about Cage – he’s courageous in his own way. Yes he was hiding something, but he really looked out for his team, and I really enjoyed watching his interactions with Lavena. The way she got under his skin was amusing, and I loved the subtleness of their feelings and relationship.
Two things surprised me about this story – two secondary characters. Nate and Jed. Nate completely surprised me when I found out what he was really doing. I knew something was a little fishy, but was so happy with how his storyline was written. And Jed – what a nice guy. He had great advice at the perfect times I thought, and I just really enjoyed the scenes he was in. I hope he gets a story in the future….. I would love to see more of him!
I highly recommend this historical novel. Be swept away to the Civil War Era and enjoy the ride. I think you’ll find yourself unable to break away! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a wonderful story set during the civil war. Both of the main characters have some problems that they need to work out before they can really get into a relationship. This story had me crying in many places. I really enjoyed a lot of the minor characters that were in this tale. I did not want to put this book down. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
This is the second in the Ladies of Oberlin series, but the book was easily read as a stand-alone. I am well-versed in the Civil War era, yet I was unaware of how the history of Oberlin College fit into this period. I have greatly enjoyed my journey through time learning about this intriguing segment. I loved Lavena. She was spunky and sassy without acting modern, and she was very relatable as she tried to forge her way in a man’s industry (journalism). She plowed ahead, and had realistic responses when things went awry, but took her commitment to getting the story seriously and continued on despite fear and trepidation. Cage is a wonderful hero, a fascinating mix of integrity, confidence, and doubt as he struggled with past issues. I loved his relationship with the Chaplain (who I hope gets his own book!). The author has obviously done her research which enriches the story with societal, cultural and colloquial references. Highly recommended.
I was provided an Advanced Reader Copy from the author. A positive review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
Lost in the Storm is a worthwhile Christian historical novel by Tamera Lynn Kraft. The story depicted the Civil War Era with a vivid descriptive backdrop of history, hidden secrets, a forsaken solider to his true loyalty, drama, faith, God’s love and even romance. Secondary characters that were in Red Sky Over America, book one in The Ladies of Oberlin series, resurfaced in this emotional action packed tale.
Lavena was set on being the best female war reporter at a time when women were not in the war zone. She faced struggles among the troop and was challenged at times as they marched on to Chattanooga for battle after her assignment with Captain Cage and his troop. Will she survive when she discovered a deserted solider speaking with officers she was traveling with and the fact she knew this solider?
Kraft has done her research well for the Civil War Era and the issues women were fighting for along with a solid Christian message. There’s plenty of heart wrenching moments as well as cherished times for the wonderful cast of characters that faced their challenges with determination, tenacity, resilience, faith and finding forgiveness.
I received a complimentary e-book from the author. I was not required to write a positive but have shared my own opinion.