Tayler Hale is ahead of her time as one of the first women naturalists. She has always loved adventure and the great outdoors, and her remote job location also helps keep her away from the clutches of the man to whom she once made a foolish promise. It seems she must keep running, however, and in secret, her boss from Yellowstone arranges for a new job . . . in Alaska.The popular Curry Hotel … Hotel continues to thrive in 1929 as more visitors come to Alaska and venture into the massive national park surrounding Denali. Recent graduate Thomas Smith has returned to the hotel and the people he considers family. But when a woman naturalist comes to fill the open position and he must work with her, everything becomes complicated.
The summer brings unexpected guests and trouble to Curry. With his reputation at stake, will Thomas be able to protect Tayler from the danger that follows?
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I have loved every book that Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse have written together. UNDER THE MIDNIGHT SUN is a fitting final book in their heart of Alaska series. The new storyline took me as a reader to a place that feels like home to me, and the characters in Curry, Alaska, were like long-time friends. The new characters brought a lot of action, romance, and intrigue to the wonderful story. I highly recommend this book!!!!!
The final book in their Heart of Alaska series, this story delivered all the feels. It’s my favorite Tracie and Kim book so far.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will go back and buy the first two to catch up. I’m a big national park fan anyway, and Denali is one I’m very keen to visit. I loved that the characters jumped from the pages right away and that the baddie was treacherous vs the hero who was conflicted but solidly good. The backdrop of Denali and the workings of the earliest national parks was fascinating and I’d highly recommend this book. I haven’t read the collaborative writings of Peterson and Woodhouse but will certainly be correcting that.
I’m so thrilled that Thomas finally got his love story! Without spoiling any of the other wonderful lovey moments, I’m overjoyed that he wasn’t the only one. The saddest thing about finishing this novel was that it was the end of the series and I’m not ready to let all of the wonderful characters go. The authors have stated that each of the books in this series can be read as standalones if you want, and while I agree they could, if you fully want to be able to appreciate this last one for what it is then I’d recommend starting from the beginning.
It didn’t take me long to adore Tayler’s character. My heart went out to her as she struck out on her own with no real support system behind her. Being not only a woman but a short woman in the wild landscape of Alaska, made it that much more difficult for her to be taken seriously. As someone even shorter than her, I resonated with many of the “short girl” sentiments and actively cheered her on.
If there was ever a villain that made my blood boil, Emerson is certainly one of them! I tried valiantly not to wish harm on him so that he couldn’t hurt Tayler. I may or may not have found myself actually praying for him that he needed to find Jesus before remembering he wasn’t a real person.
I think my favorite thing about this entire series was how the people of Curry evolved into a real family. Isn’t that one of the beautiful things about the family of Christ? While Jesus is the only one who can truly heal our broken hearts, we are given fellowship with others as a gift as well. Thomas was an orphan, Mrs. Johnson lost her whole family, Cassidy lost her mother, and even more broken relationships existed. Yet through faith in Christ and a whole lot of encouragement, the family that was created was a beautiful picture of what love is all about. <3
I honestly don't think I can recommend this series enough. This is one that I know is going to stay with me for a very long time. I never thought I could read a book that would make me love the setting of Alaska, but I've found a series that has done just that. (Although, I'm sure it helps that the stories took place in the summer months). If you haven't read it yet you need to go remedy that.
With rich historical detail and colorful characters, Under the Midnight Sun swept me away to Alaska in the 1920s. I enjoyed learning more about the Curry Hotel and the development of the area around Denali. Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse have painted a beautiful picture of that area and populated it with endearing and charming characters who come alive on the page. I admired Tayler Hale with her spunk and independence and determination to follow her dreams. Thomas Smith is a wonderful hero with his care and consideration for others and his protective instincts.
The writing is clear, concise and easy to read. Threads of faith and forgiveness weave through the story and give it an added uplifting dimension. Although this is the third and last book in The Heart of Alaska series by these authors, it can easily be read as a stand alone book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
A Review of ” Under The Midnight Sun” by Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse
“The Heart of Alaska”–Book Three
For those of you who have read Books 1 and 2 of the “Heart of Alaska” series, this Book 3 will indeed be one that you will want to read also. For those of you who haven’t yet read this series, hopefully this review will inspire you to do so, for this book and those previous in this series are definately page turners that are full of adventure, romance, godly inspiration, and life events that we can all relate to, plus readers are given a chance to learn about the beautiful state of Alaska and it’s wonderful nature and scenery, like the once thriving Curry Hotel and the hightest mountain peak in North America, Denali-“the High One” (Although, in the setting of this story of 1919, Alaska was not yet one of the USA states. It didn’t become a US state until 1959)
In this Book 3 “Under The Midnight Sun” we journey along the with Tayler Hale on her trail of life that is full of adventure quite unlike that of women living in 1919 high society. Tayler is more of a “tomboy” than a social butterfly, much to her mother’s unliking, yet encouraged by her father, she becomes a very learned Naturalist who is independant, preferring to work instead of rely on her family’s fortune.
Though Tayler is faced with dealing with a tragic turns of events in her family, whom she always held dear, and with a fiance whom proved un-faithful, she remains strong in her faith and relies on God’s strength to carry her through difficult days and relationships that threaten her future.
It is inspiring to read of her devotion to Christ and her faithfulness to prayer and trust in the Lord’s leading as Tayler let’s nothing stop her from moving towards the doors of opportunity that God opens for her.
I hope you will choose to read this book to find out where God leads Tayler and to experience the people, places and relationships He brings into her life, ultimately for good, as He always does for those who trust in Him and seek His guidance.
I received this book as a free gift from Tracie Peterson, for winning one of her contest’s on Facebook. I was not obligated to write a positive review, but I chose to do so because I really enjoyed reading this book.
–Leona J. Atkinson
Under the Midnight Sun by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is the final story in The Heart of Alaska series. Taylor Cole is a naturalist and guide at Yellowstone National Park. She returned home after her father passed away to console her mother, but her mother has dedicated herself to Hale Industries. Mrs. Hale does, though, continue to pressure her daughter to marry Emerson Pruitt to whom she became engaged to ten years prior. After discovering his cheating way, Taylor called off the engagement three years ago. Taylor returns to the job she loves at Yellowstone. When she gets a letter from Emerson stating he is coming to fetch her, Taylor decides it is time to disappear. With the aid of her boss, Taylor obtains a position at the Curry Hotel in Alaska Territory. Thomas Smith has recently graduated from college and returned to the place and people he loves at the Curry Hotel. With a summer full of tourists, Thomas is happy they have hired a new guide to aid Mr. Bradley and himself. They are unprepared for diminutive Taylor who is determined to prove that she can handle the job. Thomas had a bad experience in college with a young woman and it makes him leery of trusting Taylor. The summer will prove to be challenging for the people who live and work at the Curry Hotel. Thomas and Taylor will need to keep their wits about them if they are to navigate through the difficulties that lay ahead of them.
Under the Midnight Sun is a complex and multifaceted novel. I thought is was well-written with a good flow. The transitions between characters is smooth. I found the story captured my attention and held it. There are multiple characters with Taylor Hale and Thomas Smith being the main focus. We do get to catch up on Colette, Margaret Johnson, Allan and Cassidy Brennan with their busy twin boys, Pastor Wilcox, and Jen-Michel and Katherine. I like that the authors featured a strong female character who has gone to college and is in an unusual profession. I recommend reading the book in The Heart of Alaska series in order. I have enjoyed watching Thomas go from a gangly and clumsy boy to a confident adult with a strong faith in God. Colette has settled into life at the Curry Hotel and finds herself attracted to Dr. Reilly. Margaret Johnson, the cook for the Curry Hotel, finds herself with two suitors much to the staff’s amusement. Can Margaret open her heart to a new love? The Christian element is strong in Under the Midnight Sun as our characters pray for guidance and seek the counsel of Pastor Wilcox. There are scripture references and discussions about faith (forgiveness, following God’s path for our life, prayer). I enjoyed the beautiful descriptions of Alaska (I would love to visit). I am giving Under the Midnight Sun 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). There are recipes from the Curry Hotel at the end of the book. The ending will leave you with a smile on your face (it is cute and romantic). Under the Midnight Sun is an engaging historical novel that has well-developed characters, intrigue, romance, suspense and humor.
I absolutely loved this book! While I’m sad that it’s over, I think it was a great ending to the series. The characters were excellent. It was like visiting with old friends. It’s nice to see them get their happy endings. I absolutely love the cover on this book! It’s so beautiful! I also enjoyed the different character perspectives throughout the story. I definitely 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.
Sometimes the best books are the hardest to review. There are so many things that I loved about this story. The characters were amazing and genuine. So easy to relate to and care for.
The writing style of Tracie Peterson is so smooth and covers realistic situations. Kimberly Woodhouse is new-to-me but I’m sure she contributed greatly to increase my reading satisfaction. One can’t help but get lost in the story. I think what I enjoyed most about this particular book is the real-life struggles that people go through. The way the authors present the issues and show the reader good Christian ways to get through such situations is exemplary. Tracie is blessed with the ability to share her faith in Jesus through her writing. I can’t say enough about how her stories touch my heart.
I’m saddened to say good bye to these wonderful characters, especially Thomas. He sure came a long way from the days when he left the orphanage. The setting for this story was exceptional. I’ve never been to Alaska but feel as though I had a quick visit through these pages.
This novel can be easily read as a standalone but I highly recommend starting at the beginning of the series. You won’t want to miss anything. I truly loved this book and all the thoughts above are from my heart. Although I was awarded a copy of this book through the publisher it has no bearing on my review.
I devoured this as it is an excellent conclusion to The Heart of Alaska series. Revisiting the Curry Hotel and the characters we loved was enjoyable. Tayler Hale is the newcomer who has run from her past and she is identifiable and easily fits in with the family atmosphere. There are some unexpected turns that leave you feeling gobsmacked and thinking I didn’t see that one coming. The descriptions of Denali leave you wanting to visit as these authors picturesque details are flawless. I’m sad to see this series end as you feel like you are a part of these characters lives. Highly recommended but be prepared to not wanting to put it down.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I really enjoyed this book, and anxiously waited for the next one. Love this author!
This book is the last of the Heart of Alaska series and everything gets ties up beautifully. Tayler Hale accepts a new job in Alaska to escape her ex-fiance. Tayler is grieving from the loss of her father but also sad about her brother’s leaving their home. Adding Tayler’s mother’s pushing her to marry the untruthful ex-fiance her life has become conflicted. Nothing seems to work until she cements her relationship with God and meets Thomas Smith in Curry. A wonderful book which is full of caring people and their relationship with God.
It’s always fun to read stories about women who break cultural expectations in pursuit of their God-given talents. Tayler Hale has done this very thing by pursuing an education and landing a coveted position at Yellowstone National Park. When her mother attempts to force Tayler to settle down and marry, Tayler hastily accepts a new position as a naturalist at the Curry Hotel.
Over the course of the series, readers have watched Thomas mature while he rose from a clumsy kitchen assistant to a college graduate. I was pleased this character earned a story of his own and that he found a kindred spirit in Miss Hale. Due to the inclusion of three immature/meddlesome young ladies, I feel this story crosses the line into the territory of young adult fiction. Whether this was intentional or not, Under the Midnight Sun concludes the series on a positive and lighthearted note.
Take two top-notch authors add the Curry Hotel in 1929 Alaska plus mystery, love and intrigue and you get a series worthy of many kudos!
The final novel in the series, Under the Midnight Sun, finds Tayler Hale, mourning the death of her father, while trying to deal with an overbearing mother and suitor she is no longer interested in. When Tayler’s mother and her former fiancé try to force her hand, she responds to an ad to transfer to the Curry Hotel in Alaska.
Tayler, a pioneer in the naturalist field, being one of few woman who pursue the career, feels safe at the Curry. Safe enough to begin trusting those around her, becoming a part of the Curry family. Especially one Thomas Smith, himself a naturalist, finds himself conflicted knowing Tayler has the talent and experience to exemplary naturalist, yet he does not trust her nor does he think a female naturalist can do the job as well as a man.
I thoroughly enjoyed Under the Midnight Sun, as well as the first to novels in the series. The Heart of Alaska series would be one of those binge worthy series for a cold weekend by the fire, coffee in hand.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am under no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own.
Two of my favorite authors and I’m always glad to read their books.
I love the characters and the way the details are written. You feel like you really know these people. I love when I fall in love with the characters and the scenes and people are so real to me. I read a book one time that I really loved the characters and one was dying of consumption. I wanted to ask prayer for him. Yep!
The historical details that these two authors put into their books are amazing. I can just picture the Alaskan Territory. If you want to read a wonderful historical fiction book with unforgettable characters and unexpected turns all the while learning about the Alaskan Territory don’t miss this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers/authors. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own!
Tracie Peterson is not an author I usually pick up, but I have enjoyed her Alaskan series from the early twentieth century. With an interesting scenery and reoccurring characters, Under the Midnight Sun is an wonderful addition to the series. The story moved at a nice pace and kept my attention the whole time. I enjoyed watching the heroine do a job that wasn’t popular for women during the time period. The romance didn’t move too fast. It plowed a long slowly, allowing the hero and the heroine to fall in love naturally. Overall, Under the Midnight Sun, is a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours with the wonderful outdoors under a warm blanket. I enjoyed this novel. Fans of Karen Barnett should pick this up.
I received a complimentary copy of Under the Midnight Sun by Tracie Peterson from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.
In the last book in the Heart of Alaska series, it’s 1929 and Tayler Hale is trying to run away from her problems after her dad’s death, her ex-fiancé Elliott’s indiscretions, yet his insistence on still planning a wedding, and her mom’s transformation into someone Tayler doesn’t even recognize. So off she secretly runs to a new job at the Curry Hotel in the beautiful area surrounding Alaska’s popular Denali Park. There’s a romantic interest with Thomas Smith, some twists and turns with Elliott (turns out you can’t run away from your problems), and she forms some deep friendships with the Curry Hotel staff. But most of all, this book tells of the redemptive love God has for each of us and how we are to demonstrate His love toward others. I found Under the Midnight Sun to be an easy read, yet not easily predictable, as it will keep you intrigued throughout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a positive review.
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This story is one that I need to read several times a year. It’s a story of heart ache, betrayal, turning into mercy and forgiveness. The way the Authors described the beautiful Alaska landscape, made me want to be there to enjoy the view myself. The characters were so believable, but it’s the situations that caused the pain and betrayal that really brought home the message that no matter what or how low we go, we are offered God’s mercy, grace and forgiveness. I lived the message, I loved the story and I strongly recommend this book. It’s book three in the series, so read all of them.
I was gifted this book by the publisher for my honest review of this book.
Alaska in 1929 is an unusual setting for a historical novel, which made this one all the more interesting. I would love to be able to spend time there in person – not just in the stories I read about it!
Tayler had a heart for God, and yet she struggled with the changes that had come over her life since her father had died. Changes that eventually led her to flee to Alaska without telling anyone where she had gone. I really appreciated her sensitivity towards God and thought it was sweet when, during a sermon, she was so taken by the truth being shared that she began to pray and focus on what she heard so that she missed hearing the rest of the message that was shared!
Thomas is apparently a returning and beloved character from earlier books in the series. There are enough details about his backstory here (presented in an appropriate manner without being an info dump) to make me feel like I wasn’t missing anything as I read this. Though he was slightly awkward around Tayler, he was quite charming. I loved the way he cared so much about her and her reputation that he made a point of never allowing the two of them to be alone together.
A strong spiritual thread ran through the story emphasizing the need to make God the focus of our lives, seeking Him more than anything else. This was handled quite well and in a way that didn’t seem forced or preachy.
The story was told from the viewpoints of quite a few different characters, not just Tayler’s and Thomas.’ Most of them were necessary as this was not just about the two of them – there were actually three romances in the making. This was done well, without making me lose track of who was who despite the fact that I didn’t have the opportunity read the story straight through.
There were a couple of situations in the story that seemed a little far-fetched, and the ending was slightly overdone, but these things didn’t detract from the story enough to earn more than an eye-roll from me. The story was enjoyable and just what I needed.
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I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.