Their Daring Hearts Review and Giveaway!

About the Book

Author: Sharlene MacLaren

Genre: Christian Historical Romance (Civil War)

Release Date: Jan 9, 2018

Levi Albright rebelled against his Quaker roots to fight for abolition in the Union army in the first year of the Civil War. Two years later, 19-year-old destitute orphan Josephine Winters, with her chopped hair, boy’s clothes, and new name, “Snipp,” enlists in the Union army out of desperation.

Just over five feet tall and barely weighing as much as a newborn calf, Snipp seems to Levi to be barely old enough to hold “his” gun. But despite being teased by the regiment, Snipp quickly earns admiration for skill with a musket and unequaled bravery. When Levi explains one night that he is a Quaker leading a regiment, it leads to a late-night discussion of faith and a developing friendship.

But Snipp’s secret can only be hidden for so long. After an injury forces Josie to reveal her real identity, Levi is angered by her deception. Worse, Josie is marched out of the company without a chance to explain—or even say goodbye. Will their friendship survive? Or will the hatred saturating the war-torn nation affect even the heart of a peace-loving Quaker?

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My Perspective

What a beautifully penned story full of surprises, mystery, and bravery! It reminded me of the movie Mulan – brave young woman cuts her hair and sneaks off to join the military to help her family (and in this case, herself). Not only a brave heroine, but a heroine with a strong faith. Never once did Josie think God was not right there with her, even on the battlefield. She had to endure so much in her time on the battle scene, and to be honest I kind of admired her for it.

Then you add a Quaker to the mix in Levi. Wow. I never thought I’d see a Quaker character in battle, especially in his position! It was quite a surprise, but honestly I thought it was fun too. I loved every moment that him and Josie “Gordon” were together. Under the circumstances, you know that nothing can become of it (unless her secret gets out of course), so you can just sit back, read, and enjoy them getting to know each other. It was truly a beautiful relationship right from the start.

As if this wasn’t enough, we get a mystery to solve. Who is this mysterious solider who may be working for the other side? I loved the way these little scenes were written. It was always a “he” and with limited character contact, so you really had no clue as to who it was until the ultimate surprise! I thought I knew who it was throughout most of the story, but I was completely wrong. Quite frankly, I was glad to be. I like a good twist!

All in all this was a wonderful story that I can see myself enjoying again and again. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 About the Author

Born and raised in western Michigan, Sharlene MacLaren graduated from Spring Arbor University then traveled nationally with a contemporary Christian vocal ensemble. She married Cecil, with whom she’d grown up in Spring Arbor, and the couple had two daughters. Shar embarked on a teaching career that would span over 30 years. As she contemplated retirement, Shar sought God’s guidance, praying for a vocation that would provide the kind of fulfillment and joy she experienced as a teacher and mother. A lifelong gifted story teller, she began to write Christian romance novels. Her first book, Through Every Storm, published in 2007, was met with critical acclaim and brisk sales. The rest, as they say, is history. Whitaker House’s bestselling fiction author, she’s subsequently published 18 books, mostly historical romances. Shar enjoys reading, singing in her church choir and worship team, traveling, and spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. She’s very interactive on Facebook and Twitter. For more: www.sharlenemaclaren.com, www.facebook.com/sharmaclaren, Twitter @ sharzy_lu.

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Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Whitaker House is giving away:

Grand Prize Package: Their Daring Hearts (Forever Freedom Series) #2 by Sharlene MacLaren; Summer on Sunset Ridge (Forever Freedom Series #1) signed by the author, Sharlene MacLaren, Abba Jerusalem Hyssop 6” Pillar Candle.
1st Place: Their Daring Hearts (Forever Freedom Series) #2 by Sharlene MacLaren; Heart of Mercy (Tennessee Dreams #1) by Sharlene MacLaren; Whitaker House/Anchor Coloring Book with Colored Pencils.
2nd Place: Their Daring Hearts (Forever Freedom Series) #2 by Sharlene MacLaren; Whitaker House/Anchor Coloring Book with Colored Pencils.!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c602