Sailing and soldiering around the world has taken Caleb O’Shea far from his native Ireland, so he never imagined that a promise to see a fellow crewman safely home would practically land him on his brother’s doorstep. After spending years away from his family, Caleb isn’t certain what kind of reception he will receive when he steps foot in Natchez, Mississippi. The one thing he knows for sure is … is that he won’t stay long.Since her sister was kidnapped by river pirates six months ago, Alanah Adams has taken special care to avoid drawing attention to herself. Those living in the rough-and-tumble settlement of Cypress Creek might even think she’s addled. But when she stumbles into Caleb and his friends in Natchez, she appears to be the picture-perfect lady.Caleb only catches glimpses of the mysterious and beautiful Alanah before she disappears. But a chance encounter with her at his brother’s logging camp near Cypress Creek leaves him uncomfortable at the thought of the young woman traversing the dangerous area alone. At a crossroads in his life, Caleb must decide whether he wants to give up the worldly adventures he’s been seeking for one closer to home.
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3.5 stars
” . . . .those dark eyes never left hers. They narrowed slightly as if he was trying to place her.”
Not as addled as she would have folks to believe that she is, Alanah Adams smoothly changes roles depending on her circumstances; she can dress and act like the consummate lady or she is perfectly comfortable spreading ashes all over herself to portray an aura of mental confusion. It’s safer that way in the dangerous territory surrounding the small river town of Cypress Creek, where men take every advantage over beautiful, unattached women. It’s become a way of life, until one day a man recognizes both of her personas and is determined to find out what she is up to.
When Caleb O’Shea stumbled into Natchez, he never expected to be reunited with his brothers. He also never expected to become caught up in the life of Alanah Adams and her sister Betsy. Life is blatantly brutal in this area; river pirates run rampant and local citizens find it impossible to defend themselves and their families. When Alanah’s worst fears become reality, Caleb is faced with a life altering decision; is his life of wandering over, or has his heart finally found a place to call home in the remote little town of Cypress Creek?
Readers of the Natchez Trace series will be dully impressed with this lovely, intriguing conclusion to Pam Hillman’s Natchez Trace series.
I received a Net Galley copy of this book through Just Read Publicity Tours. I also purchased a print copy.
This is the third and final book in the Natchez Trace series and I surely hate to see them end. I thoroughly enjoyed reading these Historical Novels. They are all stand alone books but the leading heroes are all brothers from Ireland who migrated to America. This book centers on Caleb O’Shea, but we have visits of some of the previous characters from the other books. Hillman has obviously researched history when writing this book. I learned a lot about piracy and the dangers of logging and rafting the logs down the untamed Mississippi River. Lots of suspense and dangers, even the kidnapping of a young girl. Yes, there is romance and also a weak and broken preacher who finds his way back amidst all the dangers that faces those who are in his care. I found it extremely interesting with a very strong plot with believable characters. Hillman has a winner in this one…….I was given a copy from the author and I am happy to leave a positive review.
Caleb O’Shea has traveled the world, fought in wars, and has now come to Mississippi to deliver a crewmate, and friend, home. Little does he know that the brothers he’d left in Ireland years ago are also in the area.
Pam Hillman finishes her Natchez Trace series in a big way, complete with a family reunion, river pirates, romance, and several familiar faces (for those who have read the previous books).
Alanah was my favorite character in this one (and really in the entire series). She’s intelligent, determined, and good-hearted but still needs rescuing now and then. The zing between her and Caleb is evident from the first chapter of this book and reignites every time their paths cross.
The Crossing at Cypress Creek gives readers an education on plants and herbs as well as the dangerous history on and near the Mississippi river. The challenges of settling in the area are not downplayed either. Add to that pages filled with danger, adventure, familial reconciliation, and finding a place to call home.
While Cypress Creek can be read as a stand alone novel without any issues, readers will enjoy the rest of the story through Connor’s and then Quinn’s eyes first.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
We have been gifted with another O’Shea brother, this time it is Caleb, and we get to see the reception he receives from his previously immigrated brothers.
Of course, there is still danger and lawlessness here and we are reunited with old friends. I have enjoyed this series, and will miss looking forward to the next installment. Yes, you can read this one alone, there is enough information presented, but you will be hooked once you explore this read.
If you enjoy a book with a little bit of romance, but with almost non-stop action, this one will not disappoint!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale House, and was not required to give a positive review.
The Crossing At Cypress Creek is the third novel in Pam Hillman’s Natchez Trace series. Although it can be read as a stand-alone novel, I recommend reading the other installments first to fully appreciate the supporting characters and their backstories. As always, Pam Hillman offers a well-written story that immediately captured my attention and never dragged.
I loved Alanah. She was my favorite character in The Crossing At Cypress Creek and may be my favorite character in the entire series. As an herbalist, she forages for medicinal plants and has vast knowledge of their locations and properties. The combination of her intriguing profession, her unique personality, the enchanting setting, and the lurking danger created a captivating tale.
The love story between Alanah and Caleb was romantic and satisfying. The tender friendship coupled with Caleb’s protectiveness grew into a beautiful, romantic love. Beyond being Alanah’s romantic interest, Caleb is instrumental in God’s healing work in Alanah’s life. There are themes about allowing God to work out His will in one’s life, men cherishing women and loving them well, and the potent impact of forgiveness.
I recommend The Crossing At Cypress Creek by Pam Hillman to readers of historical romance who enjoy a story with bits of humor, spiritual themes, and unique characters. Those who have enjoyed the other books in the series will want to complete it with this novel.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary advanced reader copy from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed reading this novel, except for the violence. I do understand that a certain amount of violence is involved in everyday life, so I will not hold it against this author. Her writing is superb and her characters pull you into the story and you feel like you are right there with them.
Caleb O’Shea comes to Natchez, Mississippi and finds that his brothers are living near Natchez. He bumps into Alanah Adams as he helps carry a sick William Wainwright to his solicitor to get him home to his family to take care of him. Alanah recognizes that William is sick and offers some assistance in the form of medicine and they continue on their way.
Alanah Adams mourns the loss of her sister, who was kidnapped six months prior by river pirates and she does not know if her sister is alive or dead. Because her sister was pretty and the river pirate Miciah took her, Alanah dresses in rags and filth to disguise her own beauty to keep the pirates from kidnapping her. She also acts insane to deter them.
Caleb and Alanah meet again at Cypress Creek and an attraction is obvious, but Caleb is basically only there to visit his brothers and work around the plantation/lumber yard for awhile. He is not looking for a wife.
So what will happen with the attraction between the two? Will Alanah ever find her sister? Is she even alive? If you like clean (no sex scenes), historical romance, you will love this book. It has love, attraction, suspense, intrigue and you get to catch up with Connor and Quinn from the first two books in this series. Check out this wonderful story for yourself. Enjoy!
I received a review copy of this book from Pam Hillman and Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.; all opinions in my review are my own.
“Her stomach did a slow roll at the unexpected lilt of an Irish brogue.”
Yes, mine did too Alanah! In fact, that has to be the high point for me in this series by Pam Hillman. I’m a sucker for any kind of accent but there’s just something special about an Irish one.
Caleb’s story in this third and final installment of the Natchez Trace series reminded me a bit of the Biblical account of the prodigal son. As a young lad, he’s made his way in the world as a soldier on the high sea. With the promise of helping his fellow crewman return safely home, he has no idea his life would change course! He meets a pretty young lass, fights river pirates and scoundrels, reconnects with his brothers, and must decide for himself what his destiny is. He also has the heart of a true hero, one who rescues damsels in distress, even if that damsel can well take care of herself! Ah, but what woman can resist the Irish charm & the twinkle in Caleb’s eye?
I’ve really enjoyed each book in the Natchez Trace series. There’s plenty of adventure, danger, family bonds, a faith thread and the happily-ever-after at the end. I hate to see this end because the O’Shea brothers have been a lot of fun to get to know. I would recommend you read all three books to get the depth and backstories of each character. I think this family will charm you!
*I received a complimentary copy from the author through Netgalley and was under no obligation to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own. *
Sailing and soldiering around the world has taken Caleb O’Shea far from his native Ireland, so he never imagined that a promise to see a fellow crewman safely home would practically land him on his brother’s doorstep. After spending years away from his family, Caleb isn’t certain what kind of reception he will receive when he steps foot in Natchez, Mississippi. The one thing he knows for sure is that he won’t stay long.
Since her sister was kidnapped by river pirates six months ago, Alanah Adams has taken special care to avoid drawing attention to herself. Those living in the rough-and-tumble settlement of Cypress Creek might even think she’s addled. But when she stumbles into Caleb and his friends in Natchez, she appears to be the picture-perfect lady.
Caleb only catches glimpses of the mysterious and beautiful Alanah before she disappears. But a chance encounter with her at his brother’s logging camp near Cypress Creek leaves him uncomfortable at the thought of the young woman traversing the dangerous area alone. At a crossroads in his life, Caleb must decide whether he wants to give up the worldly adventures he’s been seeking for one closer to home.
This is the third book in the series. I felt lost at the beginning of the book and I have read all the books in the series. It took me a while to get up to speed on what was going on. After getting into the book the previous stories started coming back. Once I figured out who was who and the previous story lines, it was a good book. It would be very helpful to read the first two book back to back with this book. I’m giving this book three stars instead of four because of the confusing beginning.
If I would recommend this, it would be with the stipulation that you read the first two.
I was given this book by Tyndale Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.