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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Even though this book can be read as a stand-alone, it’s better to read the series first. I didn’t read them in order, but I still enjoyed it. I’m sure I would have enjoyed it more had I read them in order. I really enjoyed the adventure in this book. I also really loved the Irish accent! I’m definitely going to go back and read the other books.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Goodness, this has it all! The final book of the Natchez Trace series has mystery, danger, pirates, romance; something for everyone. Author Pam Hillman does a good job of wrapping up her series. You will want to read books 1 and 2 so you understand the nuances in book 3. Believe me, they are well worth the time.
Hillman has obviously researched history when writing this book. I learned a lot about piracy and the danger of the area, as well as a lot about the flora and fauna. I found it extremely interesting and she wove it in so skillfully that it greatly enhanced the story without making it dry.
The characters are well developed and realistic. They have strengths and weaknesses, fears and victories. I love the O’Shea brothers and how they protect those who need it, even when they’re fighting amongst themselves as brothers will. The ladies in the story are strong, as they have to be to survive living in Natchez. And it all comes together so well to make a satisfying ending.
If you enjoy historical fiction with a bit of clean romance then I highly recommend The Crossing at Cypress Creek.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
This was a wonderful ending to a very good series. I really enjoyed learning about what the men and women that traveled the Trace around Natchez might have been like. This was a fun story to learn how Alanah and Caleb meet and get together. There was romance and some mystery in this book. I look forward to many more books by Pam Hillman. 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 story is an unexpected and beautiful reflection of humanity’s spectrum from black-hearted sinfulness and indignant self-righteousness to brokenness, forgiveness, and restoration. As much as I love the grandeur of plantations, there is a familiarity and raw honesty about the humble dwellings near Cypress Creek. Hard work and quick wits are required to survive in this area, making its unique beauty shine even brighter.
Alanah and Caleb are not strangers to toil and scraping out a living in unfavorable conditions, their perseverance is awe-inspiring. Both characters possess an undeniable strength, agility, and intelligence which serves them well in unforgiving environments. Delightful banter and attraction fill each interaction between Alanah and Caleb with sparks and warmth.
I highly recommend this series and honestly can’t wait to visit the historic Natchez Trace in person!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
I haven’t read anything by Pam Hillman before. I have been a little skeptical about reading anything from majority of authors who write during the early settlement of America. It is a part of history that really doesn’t appeal to me. But when Tyndale Reader Rewards gave me the opportunity to use my points to obtain a copy of The Crossing at Cypress Creek, I jumped at it. What could it hurt? Hillman does a fabulous job at showing the struggles and horrors that occurred in America as new settlers tried to make claim for a better life for themselves and their families. Alanah Adams, the heroine, is a witty and brave young woman who knows what she needs to do to keep her family healthy and strong in this wilderness. I couldn’t imagine doing all she does. Whereas Caleb, the hero, ran away from his homeland only to arrive in America smack dab back with all his siblings. The plot flowed nicely with enough details to keep me flipping pages. There was hints of the plot in the previous two books in the series, and I have them on my Kindle, so I’m anxious to go back and read those stories. I enjoyed spending time with this novel. This won’t be my last Hillman novel. If you’re a fan of Jocelyn Green, then this might be a book right up your alley.
I loved going back to Natchez Trace again and catching up with the O’Shea brothers, Connor and Quinn, and finally getting to meet Caleb O’Shea! I really enjoyed every bit of this story! There is a sweet romance, great secondary characters, a beautiful message of God’s love, and a lot of action and danger. But, boy oh boy, this is a dangerous place to live. The bad guys are seriously some of the worst!
I love Caleb and Alanah together! Caleb is kind, honorable, and willing to help those in need. Alanah is also a wonderful character who spends her time learning how to heal people with medicinal herbs. But, I must say, that there was a time or two or three, where I wanted Alanah to stop and actually listen to the good advice that Caleb was giving her instead of going off and doing what she wanted to do. But, even though she needlessly put herself in serious danger several times, I loved that it was because of her selfless love for her family. This is a really good series and I am hoping that the Natchez Trace series is not over!
I received a complementary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own. I also purchased a copy.
My Thoughts on The Crossing at Cypress Creek:
The Crossing at Cypress Creek is a wonderfully compelling novel that I could not put down!
I have always been and will always be a sucker for anything to do with the Irish. My grandma was half Irish/half English and a WWII war bride. Add in my name is Erin. My husband is Sean. We’ve given all our children Irish or Gaelic first names. It’s just a part of us. I long to someday visit Ireland and walk where my family is from.
So, this is one of the main reasons I wanted to read this book. An Irishman as one of the main characters. I can hear his brogue in my head as I read the words. Oh yes. It’s a wonderful sound.
The Crossing at Cypress Creek is the third book in the Natchez Trace series by Pam Hillman. I have not read the first two though now I can’t wait to find out Connor and Quinn. It is said that this is the final novel in the series but I truly think there should be more. There are two more brothers after all!
This book is a wonderful read. It reads quickly and is spellbinding. You just don’t want to look away from the page. The story sucks you in and the characters become your best friends.
Within the pages are some super hard things. There is violence, alcohol, rape, murder, and some truly evil people. But there is also love, and goodness, and so much light to counter that darkness that it doesn’t feel overpowering. It feels balanced and doesn’t take away from the storyline. It’s a quintessential story of good versus evil with a romance or two thrown in for good measure.
As a lover of all things medicine and herbal, I love all the references to the herbs and healing salves that Lydia and Alanah make. FYI Alannah was always on my list as a name for a girl but we have yet to use it. 🙂
Historical fiction novels are a huge favorite of mine. This is a great one. Pam Hillman has a gift for knowing how the Irish speak and making the brogue come alive in your mind while you’re reading. She also has a gift with making her characters so very real and alive.
I would not have my teenage daughter read this book but it is definitely one I recommend for adult women who want a good novel that is going to make you think, make you wonder about what happened in days gone by, but also help renew your views on mankind and that there is still good and light and hope out there in the world.
Now I’m off to read the other two books and possibly pen a note to an author begging for the other two O’Shea brothers stories to be told. And then maybe Lydia’s story and Betsy too, maybe William? I’m sure I can come up with at least another half a dozen stories to be told. And I’d enjoy reading everyone!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. 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.
The Crossing at Cypress Creek was a wonderful conclusion to Pam Hillman’s fantastic Natchez Trace Trilogy!
Ms. Hillman wove a fascinating story of love, mystery, and second chances.
After years of running from a bitter past in Ireland, Caleb O’Shea is shocked to discover his brothers while stopping through Natchez on his travels.
After witnessing her sister’s brutal kidnapping at the hand of notorious river pirate Micaiah Jones, Alanah Adams has perfected the facade of “Addled Alanah,” and does what she can to survive in the dangerous land that is Cypress Creek.
When these two hurting lives collide, they embark on a dangerous journey to fight for Alanah’s home, and the people that mean the most to them.
Pam Hillman wrote a masterful story with wonderful characters, a thrilling storyline, and powerful themes.
It was fascinating to see the O’Shea family finally reunited and to watch as Caleb and Alanah learn to trust each other and discover what it means to trust in the shelter of love.
I received a copy of this book for FREE, and a positive review was not required.
A solid conclusion to the Natchez Trace series, The Crossing at Cypress Creek features new dangers in the Mississippi setting and an endearing romance with another O’Shea brother while interweaving the beauty of grace. This book differs from the others in the series because the suspense doesn’t pick up until the second half of the book; regardless, it didn’t bother me because the author was successful by keeping my attention and invested in the characters before the action went into full swing. It was nice to see familiar faces from previous books and the introduction of new characters quickly charmed me too. Out of all the brothers, it was hardest to connect to Caleb regarding their past in Ireland; to me, he was more of a creator of damage than a victim and I didn’t feel like his harbored resentment was truly justified. However, by no means is Caleb O’Shea unlikeable. He is kind, protective, honorable and carries deep regret about abandoning his brothers that he believes he doesn’t deserve any goodness. I was glad that he found reconciliation with his brothers, especially Quinn. Forced to feign craziness by living in a dangerous territory, Alanah is strong, resourceful and compassionate. The circumstances that created her sense of independence and her knowledge of men who mistreat women make it hard for her to trust – but Caleb is there, faithfully showing her love, kindness and proving to her that there are good people she can trust. Their romance was sweet, as was Tiberius’s pursuit of Lydia. And I loved the reminder that grace is freely given to anyone who repents and believes in Christ – a truth that was evident in some many storylines. Overall, a good read and a likeable series.
The Crossing at Cypress Creek is such an exciting end to the Natchez Trace series! Alanah isn’t the typical damsel in distress, and I loved her strength and bravery in the face of the danger presented by river pirates that threatened her family. She was great example of being willing to face her fears in order to do what needed to be done.
Caleb, like his brothers before him, was full of passion and a bit of Irish temper too. It certainly made for some humorous interactions at times! Like Alanah, he was willing to do whatever it took to protect his loved ones, and I admire the entire O’Shea family and their friends for their sense of duty and honor.
This series is best enjoyed in order. The stories make the most sense that way, and it’s truly an exciting, romantic saga that you’re not going to want to miss! I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours and am under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Loved this book! Book three of Pam Hillman’s Natchez Trace series, The Crossing at Cypress Creek is a historical romance set in the late 1700 – early 1800’s Natchez Mississippi.
With engaging and well-developed characters, the author’s attention to historical detail shines through as I was transported to a lowly, struggling farm with Alannah and her sister Betsy as they attempt to survive uncouth river pirates unscathed. Lydia, a healer, lives on the farm and is training Alannah in the use of herbs and healing.
Caleb O’Shea has long been far from home; when the ship he is sailing on arrives in port in Mississippi, he learns his brothers are in Natchez. Not sure of his reception, they did not part on the best of terms, Caleb heads to Cypress Creek, a small riverside community near Alannah and Betsy’s farm. Meeting Alannah creates a bit of a conundrum for Caleb for he has determined that living an adventurous life at sea. Little did he know he was about to embark on the best adventure of his life!
Highly recommend
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Just Read Tours and am not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
Ms. Hillman has fed not only my affinity for historical fiction, but my fascination with the swamps and bayous of southern Mississippi and Louisiana.
Neither the era nor the location was a place fitting for a woman to fend for herself. Yet that was the circumstance Alanah Adams was in.
Caleb O’Shea had no intention of trekking so far inland as Cypress Creek. Circumstance—and a second encounter with Alanah—not only take him to Cypress Creek, but prompt him to rethink his plans.
Ms. Hillman’s story is rich with the texture and depth of the untamed land. The harshness of living such a crude life, the palpable threat of harm, her knowledge of Alanah’s herbs and tinctures—all bring this story to vivid life.
Both Alanah and Caleb fought against a life they were thrust into, and against past dark secrets and shame of unforgiveness. Ms. Hillman skillfully lifts those resentments, the secrets, peeling them back one layer at a time.
To reveal a new truth, truth with hope and love.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Crossing at Cypress Creek, Pam Hillman
I have enjoyed the previous books from Pam Hillman’s Natchez Trace series and The Crossing at Cypress Creek does not disappoint. I do believe that this series should be read in order so readers can follow along better. Caleb’s story is probably my favorite among the O’Shea’s. It has a lot that I love in a book – danger, action, adventure and romance.
The Crossing at Cypress Creek gets a well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy clean historical fiction.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
This novel is rich in historical detail, setting, unique characters, and themes of redemption.
I read along, fascinated, as “Addled Alanah” foraged for healing herbs and brightly colored mushrooms to sell so she could provide for herself, her mentor, Lydia, and her Uncle Jude and sister Betsy. I felt strong compassion for her as an older sister, given the plight of her sister. Having met all the other brothers in the O’shea clan, I was eager to meet Caleb, the soldier-for-hire who left home amid flared tempers and broken hearts. Alanah’s “forest warrior” persona and Caleb’s mercenary background make them an excellent team. They both grow in character-specific areas and this book takes them on that journey.
The Secondary Characters:
The secondary characters in The Crossing at Cypress Creek are all gems. I loved reading about “Looney Lydia,” the healer of mixed Native American and African American heritage, and her level-headed approach to tough situations. Her interactions with Tiberius, the mercenary moor, sprinkled humor across the pages. Betsy brings us the initial conflict with the river pirates. Pirate leader Micaiah is a well-rounded villain and a great foil for our hero, Caleb. One of the most interestingly conflicted characters is Uncle Jude, a preacher much like the Biblical Jonah, called to cry against the wickedness taking place around him. His struggle to offer mercy to those who destroyed his family prompts the reader to look inward at their own motives and actions. Jude’s role in the ending of the story had me turning pages into the small hours of the night. Readers will be delighted to have all the characters from earlier books in the series reunited in this book. Pam included throwback moments with Connor and Isabella and Kiera and Quinn that made me smile.
The Romance:
Caleb and Alanah share many kisses and moments of attraction throughout the book. Caleb is a wanderer and offers little commitment to go along with his kisses, which provides conflict in his and Alanah’s character arcs. My favorite aspect of their romance was his protectiveness toward her whenever she was in danger and his willingness to sacrifice to save her sister–and then her as well.
The Faith Element:
Jude’s story thread, mentioned above, brings continuity and a deep contemplative message to the story. What a character, and what a journey! The redemption message is clearly offered through repentance and faith in Jesus–one thing I deeply appreciate about Pam’s books.
The Author’s Trademarks:
Adventure, historical grit, gentle humor, and Biblical truth are trademarks that make Pam Hillman Pam Hillman’s stories go-to fiction for me.
The Stakes:
Life and death stakes are strong in this book. In the 1700s, medicine was primitive, and early settlers in the South undertook dangerous tasks to carry out their everyday livelihood. One particular swamp scene with an alligator paints this aspect in living color. Illness and work-related accidents being common enough, these characters face the added dangers of greedy, bloodthirsty river pirates looking for any victim whose possessions might bring a fine price.
The Setting:
This story’s setting is so unique. Unlike any I’ve read in the Christian Fiction genre. If you enjoyed the film Davy Crockett and the River Pirates or Distant Drum, starring Gary Cooper, you’ll like this adventurous historical tale.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher and have voluntarily provided my honest opinion in this review.
The Crossing at Cypress Creek is the exciting conclusion to Pam Hillman’s Natchez Trace series. Another of the O’Sheas enters the scene and Caleb is just as endearing as his brothers, a bit of an Irish scamp with a history he regrets yet totally loyal and protective of those weaker than himself. Alanah Adams was a strong, independent woman, accustomed to taking care of herself. Her knowledge of herbal medicine and healing were not only helpful in the wilderness but a much needed source of income for her family. Several secondary characters who added extra depth to the story included Lydia, Tiberius, Caleb’s giant of a companion, Alanah’s sister Betsy, their Uncle Jude, and the ruthless pirates who plagued the area. Of course we can’t forget the O’Shea brothers and their wives who had their own stories in the first two books of the series.
Alanah was a multifaceted woman who was at home in the wilderness but could easily fit in with society. Feisty and brave, she was well matched to former mercenary Caleb who had a tendency to wander but would fight to the death for those he cared about. I was not a fan of Uncle Jude, a preacher whose attitude towards his nieces disturbed me. Thankfully, changes took place before the story ended which helped to redeem my opinion of him.
There are so many good things I could say about The Crossing at Cypress Creek but I feel totally inadequate to express them as eloquently as I would like. I love all of Pam Hillman’s books and this one may be my favorite yet. If you enjoy your history peppered with plenty of action, danger, and adventure, authentic characters, a sometimes complicated romance, a touch of humor, and an uncompromised message of faith, the The Crossing at Cypress Creek (as well as the rest of the series) should be quickly added to your TBR list.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
I enjoyed this third book in the Natchez Trace series! Caleb and Alanah’s story wasn’t as easy for me to get into as the couples in the first two books, but I still enjoyed it! It was interesting having the girl with such a different background! I liked learning about all of the plants used for medicinal purposes. Good series!
One of the things I loved about this book was that it didn’t just focus on Caleb’s romance with apprentice healer Alanah Adams. Hillman does a great job also focusing on the relationship with Caleb and his brothers. I also enjoyed Alanah’s relationship with her sister Betsy. I appreciated the time Hillman spent focusing on the aftermath of Betsy’s abduction and how the trauma not only affected Betsy but Alanah, too. This provided a really good arc for Alanah as she learned how to trust Caleb. There’s also plenty of action as they face off against river pirates and the evil Micaiah Jones. Micaiah is a villian I loved to hate, and Hillman has a fantastic build-up to the final showdown between Micaiah and the others that kept me turning pages until late in the night.
(My full review can be found on my blog at https://justjenniferpurcell.com/2019/06/21/just-read-the-crossing-at-cypress-creek-by-pam-hillman/)
The Crossing of Cypress Creek by Pam Hillman is book three in the Natchez Trace series.
The series is about the O’Shea brothers and this one focuses on Caleb.
Caleb O’Shea is a bit of a loner, having left his brothers in Ireland to take to the sea and travel the world. He finds himself at Natchez Under The Hill and face to face with his brothers. Unsure of their reaction, he is surprised when they welcome him back as the prodigal returned! These brothers remind me of the verses in Joshua that talk of MIGHTY MEN OF VALOR who run toward the danger , not away from it.
Alanah Adams is a strong young lady. She, her sister and a friend have been left to fend for themselves in the woods along the perilous Natchez Trace in August 1792. Their father is a legalistic parson travels in order to minister to settlements far away. Alanah cleverly disguises herself as a crazy lady in order to protect the females left alone at home.
The Trace is a dangerous but necessary place to travel for commerce. Highwaymen and River Pirates accost almost everyone.
Ms. Hillman builds a credible world of early America along the Natchez Trace. There is excitement by the bucketful. Strong characters necessarily populate this story. The heroine is resourceful, capable and clever. She tries to reconcile her relationship with God with the harsh God she sees through her father’s preaching. Caleb is a lost brother who wants to connect with family and then go his own way again. But will he change his mind when he encounters forgiveness from his family and meets the intriguing and puzzling Alanah?
This whole series has captured my interest with its romantic setting and interesting history. Ms. Hillman is a masterful storyteller. She incorporates spiritual truth into the journeys of her characters.
*I received an ARC of this book from Tyndale Publishers on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Such a great book ! This book is the last one in a three book series, but I do believe that you can read this one as a stand alone (I did ). It made me want to go back and read the previous books, as well as hoping to someday get to read a fourth book in the series (Hint, Hint 😉 .
I believe that this is one of the first books I have read by Pam Hillman (I can’t believe it as this one was so good), I already have ordered the previous two books in the series. I believe that Pam did a great job at showing some of the struggles people went through before there was “Civilization” around, and she made me believe I was right there and that I could here the forest all around me.
I loved the characters, how they interacted, the ways you got to hear their thoughts and share a little piece of their lives. I thought that the underlying message was that it is never too late to receive grace, or ask forgiveness from God.
I give this story a 5 out of 5 stars, for original and engaging characters, amazingly detailed descriptions, and page turning smiles.
I volunteered to read this book from Tyndale House Publishing & Just Read Tours in return for my honest feedback, the thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
This has been such a wonderful series, in fact it’s one of my favorite series that I’ve read. When Caleb O’Shea promises to see a fellow crewman home, he never expected to see any of his brothers. Caleb has not seen his brothers in such a long time. He had no idea how his older brother Connor would react to him being there. What kind of reunion can we expect in this third book in the Natchez Trace series?
I was on the edge of my seat as I anticipated the reunion of Caleb with his brothers. Having left his younger brothers with no contact whatsoever, it could have gone either way. And you really need to read this book (and not review spoilers) to find the answer! I enjoyed getting to know Caleb, even though he was difficult at times, his help around the land was certainly useful. The Crossing at Cypress Creek has so many twists and turns, it is difficult to see what’s coming next. Life wasn’t easy for anyone, the work was hard, they faced difficult situations as well as evil people, and sometimes it was difficult reading the things that happened. But still, I had a hard time putting the book down because I had to know what was around the next turn.
Again, author Pam Hillman writes an amazing story! To see the O’Shea brothers come from the difficult life in their native Ireland land, to where they are now has been an amazing experience! Now I plan to read the series again, all together. I highly recommend A Crossing at Cypress Creek for your reading enjoyment. I also highly recommend the first two books in the series, The Promise of Breeze Hill, and The Road to Magnolia Glen. This is a series you want to read, and a journey that will leave you thinking about it long after you finish the last book.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.