Within My Heart (Timber Ridge Reflections, #3)

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Within My Heart (Timber Ridge Reflections #3)

by Tamera Alexander (Goodreads Author)

4.21 of 5 stars 4.21 · rating details · 962 ratings · 107 reviews

Sometimes the greatest step of faith is taken neck-deep in feat.

Determined to fulfill her late husband’s dream, Rachel Boyd struggles to keep her ranch afloat with the help of her two young sons. But some days it feels as though her every effort is sabotaged. When faced with a loss she cannot afford, she’s forced to trust Rand Brookston, the one man in Timber Ridge she wis...more

Paperback, 381 pages

Published September 1st 2010 by Bethany House Publishers (first published October 1st 2009)

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson

Best Christian Fiction Book Covers

138th out of 558 books — 446 voters

An Echo in the Darkness by Francine Rivers

Christian Historical Romance Favorites

57th out of 308 books — 223 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 1,497)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Dec 11, 2010 Amber Stokes rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

It was with tears and bittersweet emotions that I finished this book. Alexander has an amazing God-given talent for writing with depth, using gorgeous imagery and dialogue to describe God's creation and to explore the workings of God in our lives.

To be honest, this particular book took me a long time to read. It wasn't like the first in this series, where I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning desperate to know what would happen and reveling in the sweet romance. I received this book sev...more

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 13, 2012 Timothy rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-reviewed-in-2010, read-reviewed-in-2012

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Once again, I am reading a romance, only in this case, a historical one instead of a suspense one. I will volunteer to be the first to mock myself, in a light-hearted manner. I realize that some people with whom I am acquainted will smirk at the fact that I offered to receive and read this book for review. Okay now, are we done with the mocking, smirking, and eye-rolling? Good, let’s go on to the review. ;)

In Tamera Alexander’s book, *Within My Heart*, the plot begins in a traditional manner fo...more Once again, I am reading a romance, only in this case, a historical one instead of a suspense one. I will volunteer to be the first to mock myself, in a light-hearted manner. I realize that some people with whom I am acquainted will smirk at the fact that I offered to receive and read this book for review. Okay now, are we done with the mocking, smirking, and eye-rolling? Good, let’s go on to the review. ;)

In Tamera Alexander’s book, *Within My Heart*, the plot begins in a traditional manner for the typical genre of historical romances. There is a young woman, in this case widowed, who is a genius, and much better-educated than most women of the time. She has a fiery temperament, and is willing to stand her line with *any* man. This is great for me, up to a point, because I really enjoy strong female characters. Not the “I am woman, hear me roar” silly feminist type, but a strong, realistic woman. The problem is that I also enjoy characters and settings that are at least *somewhat* historically accurate. The typical historical romance seems not to be accurate in this regard at all.

The other element that annoyed me was the ending. The typical “deep, dark” secret was in presence. Also, in the great culmination of the book, there is the typical “danger” to the characters. There are a limited number of dangers used (or, I should say, over-used) in historical romances that anyone who has read them, or read the jokes about them, would recognize. One of these is actually used near the end of the book. Finally, the author tries too hard to be stirring with her flowery rhetoric. The last paragraphs sounded like the end to an English epic from literature class in high school. The flowery language was a bit over-the-top, as it were.

Despite all of this, I truly did enjoy the book, and rate it quite highly. For one thing, despite the over-use of literary conventions typical to such novels, the author pretty much limited her use of these to the above-listed items. In fact, historically the somewhat “modern” temperament of the women out west was in evidence. They had no choice *but* to dispense with traditional cultural understandings of the sexes, and learn to hunt, shoot, chop wood, haul wood, farm, and so forth, just as well as any man. The historical records, including the diaries of frontier women, showed this remarkable independent streak. The problem is that most authors do not portray the situation in a realistic enough manner to show why these women were like they were. Tamera Alexander does do this. Granted, not all were the geniuses that these books portray, but that is forgivable given the broader pluses in the book.

The “deep, dark” secret seemed quite out of place, and not necessary to the plot. It really did seem as if Alexander only put it in there to make the book more like the other books in the genre. Other than this, the story was remarkably realistic. The main characters had a bad past, but these were well-known in the case of the heroine, Rachel Boyd, and hidden for a reason in the case of the hero, Dr. Rand Brookston. Rachel’s husband was killed a few years prior to the book by a wild animal, and she is afraid to love again. Still no deep, dark secret. Brookston was injured and had a frightening experience of nearly being horribly misdiagnosed by the battle surgeon. Again, this was in his past, prior to the novel. During the time frame that it occurred in the Civil War, such happenings could occasionally happen.

The book seems to be divided into three roughly equal parts. These parts are not officially listed, indeed, there are no larger “sections” to the novel, beyond chapter headings. This is only my own observation.

In part one, the characters are introduced, and Brookston is clearly in love with Rachel, which she knows, but doesn’t reciprocate. She has a negative view of medical doctors, for her own reasons. Brookston proves to her he is not like her misconception of doctors, so her feelings begin to thaw towards him. Part two is the story of how their friendship develops and she falls in love with him, and part three details how she gets over her fears and they become engaged.

The typical, tired story elements of the novel may have caused me to become so irritated that I ignored the enormous good in the book, but not quite. There was another saving grace to the novel, and that is how they portrayed Brookston’s symptoms that today would be classified as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from the war. The realism, largely absent from much period fiction, was a breath of fresh air. Even though I did not have the same personal injury horrors in the same manner as Brookston did, I can empathize with his plight, as I have PTSD, and so it struck a chord with me.

Trust me, this book may have some faults, typical of such romances, but it is not the typical book of this genre. It has realism, believability, sheds most of the more annoying tropes, and is extremely well-written. The prose is easily readable (though a bit overly, purposefully, poetic at times), and the characters were ones I truly cared about. This book, despite its problems, was well worth the read. Recommended.

----

I received this novel from Bethany House Publishers for the purposes of writing a review for them. I must emphasize that they do not ask for a particular type of review, whether positive or negative. I truly appreciate the chance to review this book, and the above opinions are my honest viewpoint. I also want to give my sincere thanks to Bethany House Publishers for the opportunity to review this book, and thank you all for reading this review.(less)

1 like · like · see review

May 10, 2013 Donna Wharton rated it 5 of 5 stars

Rachel Boyd is still healing after losing her husband in a terrible accident a year ago and now trying to raise 2 boys on her own and keep the ranch she and her husband wanted to build for their boys. She is too delicate to allow anyone else to enter her heart again, as she and her husband were best friends and very much in love. It will take a very special person to help her see she can have a second chance to share her life with someone.

Rand Brookston is a respectable doctor in this growing C...more

like · see review

May 04, 2013 Cindy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Tamera Alexander is one of my favorite authors. Her writing is honest and from the heart. This book is without a doubt no exception. This book was written while Tamera was living through the loss of her mother, and I felt her emotions and heart while reading this story. The story was about the widow Rachel Boyd who readers met in the first Timber Ridge novel. Rachel continues to blame Daniel Ranslett for the death of her husband. She is struggling to make ends meet supporting the farm that she a...more

like · see review

Dec 28, 2012 Yiya rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is a book that leaves the reader with a feeling of satisfaction, even though the plot is what can typically be expected from a romantic novel. There is Rachel, a widow that has two kids and is still recovering from the wounds of the past. She is afraid of opening her heart one more time, and she thinks she will not be strong enough to face once more the hardships that a loss brings along. Justifying her choices by trying to protect her kids, she finds herself taken by the new doctor in town...more This is a book that leaves the reader with a feeling of satisfaction, even though the plot is what can typically be expected from a romantic novel. There is Rachel, a widow that has two kids and is still recovering from the wounds of the past. She is afraid of opening her heart one more time, and she thinks she will not be strong enough to face once more the hardships that a loss brings along. Justifying her choices by trying to protect her kids, she finds herself taken by the new doctor in town, Rand. However, her own experience with another doctor keeps her from acknowledging how interested she is in him. Rand also has a past that casts a shadow on his present; he was misdiagnosed when receiving a serious wound during the Civil War, and is still living the consequences of a terrifying ordeal. Both share the commonalities of a harsh life in the Colorado mountains, but their care for a patient in need takes them to where none would dare to go by themselves - getting to know each other, face their own fears and accept their love. They come to understand that whatever loss and pain they have experienced before,
their love would far outweigh it all.
Their learning experience gets really intense at the end of the story, with an imminent dangerous situation that has come to be really common to romantic novels nowadays. Mrs. Alexander's writing is enticing, but this conclusion seems to be unnecessary. However, I also recognize that it is a trend nowadays, a quick climax with forced suspense that will obviously end up with the highly expected ending, the two main characters committing their lives to each other. Despite this, the faith lessons included in the plot are well worth it; it is an invitation to accept God's will, make good use of the time that has been given us, and move forward with life.
Through Ben's and Rachel's story, the reader is reminded that God pays attention to details and that joy costs pain. The characters learn that "walking into the unknown [is] a little less frightening knowing God is there." They begin to walk in faith, with their heart on God's promise about our wonderful experiences are but a shadow of what is yet to come. Overall, this is a book that felt a bit too personal (in the best sense of the word).
The author includes a note and shares an experience that ratified this sensation; it is always refreshing that an author is willing to write an honest book that would open herself to readers. (I would actually like to have the chance to thank Mrs. Alexander for such a beautiful effort). It is enticing, easy to read and has the gift of helping us understand a bit more of how our faith will be strengthened if only we keep our eyes on God, despite fear and pain.
Bethany House Publishers sent me a free copy of this book. They only asked me to write an honest review, whether my opinion of the book is favorable or not; the above is my own opinion. Thank you for reading this review. (less)

like · see review

Jul 07, 2012 Tammi rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: tamera-alexander, author, historial-fiction

Within My Heart is the third book in the Timber Ridge Series by Tamera Alexander... Set in 1877, Timber Ridge, Colorado we find Rachel Boyd, a mother of two young boys, ranch owner, sister, friend, and widow; and Doctor Rand Brookston the single, town doctor who truly cares for the people of Timber Ridge.

Wanting to keep her husband's dream alive, Rachel works hard at keeping the ranch running, but two hard winters has caused a loss of cattle, which has added financial strain to her already full...more Within My Heart is the third book in the Timber Ridge Series by Tamera Alexander... Set in 1877, Timber Ridge, Colorado we find Rachel Boyd, a mother of two young boys, ranch owner, sister, friend, and widow; and Doctor Rand Brookston the single, town doctor who truly cares for the people of Timber Ridge.

Wanting to keep her husband's dream alive, Rachel works hard at keeping the ranch running, but two hard winters has caused a loss of cattle, which has added financial strain to her already full plate. When a cow is having a hard time birthing its calf, Rachel weighs the option of loosing the cow and her calf, or trusting Doctor Brookston to aid in the birth. But, Rachel is wary of him because she feels that he and all other physicians are like her father, a man who was too proud, and arrogant for her liking. Is he, and is she, willing to find out if he is different?

Doctor Rand Brookston, an eastern trained doctor, has wide ranging medical knowledge and willing to read and study to continue learning about new medical procedures. The townspeople are slow to trust him and his new fangled ways of doing things. However, when a patent is found to have a life threatening condition, Doctor Brookston is willing to use a risky procedure to try to save his life.

Will Rachel and Rand remain separated because of Rachel's ideas of what men who are doctors are like, or will they unite in the love Rachel desperately needs, but is afraid to pursue?

I enjoy Tamera's books and Within My Heart wasn't disappointing. I loved how she wove her own struggles to understand God's ways and what God was teaching her into this book. Rachel and Rand are written realistically and I found myself sympathizing with Rachel and her feelings of wanting to remain faithful to her husband and to his dream. I also enjoyed watching the characters grow, facing their fears, limitations, lost dreams, how they learn to forgive, and love.

Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander was provided for me free by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. (less)

like · see review

Mar 15, 2012 Jennifer rated it 4 of 5 stars

I wasn't going to read this book since it's about a widow considering remarriage-which when I think about either myself or my husband doing that, it makes me want to die. But I was so hooked on the characters of Timber Ridge that I almost had to. Aside from the fact that I just REALLY hate books about death, this was a really good book. I really enjoyed getting a peak at how the medical field developed back in the late 1800's, and out in the middle of nowhere. I'm not sure I'll stretch myself to...more

like · see review

Jan 11, 2012 Cindy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Rachel Boyd is under a lot of pressure. Trying to fulfill the dream she and her husband had for their ranch, all the while raising their two sons on her own. After her husband Thomas died, Rachel tried her best to keep the ranch going, but severe weather and the loss of so many cattle are taking a toll on her, and the finances of the ranch.
Dr. Rand Brookston has come west, trying to escape the nightmares that wake him up, and make him keep lamps burning constantly. Being buried alive is the mos...more

1 like · like · see review

May 01, 2011 Dawn rated it 5 of 5 stars

It's been years since the night Rachel Boyd's husband never returned from his first lone bear hunt. In that time, she has tried her best to make their cattle ranch everything he had always wanted it to be -- but eventually she has to admit, being a rancher just wasn't what she was cut out for.

Of course, this is hard when she wants more than anything to keep her husband's memory alive for her two young sons. She feels guilty, not only for wanting to give up on Thomas' dreams, but also because she...more

like · see review

Mar 17, 2011 Karen Baney rated it 5 of 5 stars

At last, Rachel Boyd's story. And what a good story it was. I enjoyed getting inside her head and watching as she began to learn to move on in life. Rand Brookston is a doctor--exactly the profession she swore she'd never fall for. The tension from both his past and hers adds a rich dynamic to the story. I love that Rand has some pretty strong fears of something that most of us would consider trivial. But because of his past, his fears are justified and slow to heal. I am always appreciative tha...more

like · see review

Feb 08, 2011 F. rated it 4 of 5 stars

Book Cover: It is simple, historical looking. Goes well with story.

I have never read any works by Tamera Alexander, until I picked up a copy of "Within My Heart". I truly enjoyed the book. It is set in the middle to the late 1800s in Timber Ridge, Colorado.

Within My Heart (Timber Ridge Reflections, Book 3)A quote that I truly found powerful is "Life rewarded courage, even when the first step was taken neck-deep in fear" (75). I feel that quote could be used to apply on some of the current event...more

like · see review

Nov 22, 2010 Janna rated it 5 of 5 stars

I read "From A Distance" (1st book in this series) quite awhile ago and really liked it - I found it to be a pretty original historical fiction and I appreciate originality in a basically formulaic genre. I somehow or another missed #2 but was excited to read this one. Tamera doesn't disappoint. This book stands alone just fine, but the characters from #2 and #3 are right in the midst of everything so having read them will be beneficial but not necessary.
In this particular book we follow widow...more

like · see review

Nov 10, 2010 Giovanni Gelati rated it 5 of 5 stars

I want to thank everyone for such a nice response to our first official romance day; I was stunned. Let’s get right to this novel as it’s something that really found a place in my mind and heart very quickly. I guess having a wife and seven daughters rubbed off on me a little and I was able to channel my feminine side during this read. I really am enjoying the historical romance category. I am going to try others, but right now I am grooving on this for another novel or two. By the way as a side...more I want to thank everyone for such a nice response to our first official romance day; I was stunned. Let’s get right to this novel as it’s something that really found a place in my mind and heart very quickly. I guess having a wife and seven daughters rubbed off on me a little and I was able to channel my feminine side during this read. I really am enjoying the historical romance category. I am going to try others, but right now I am grooving on this for another novel or two. By the way as a side note, my wife, Mrs. Gelati, will be giving me a break and taking over this spot next week. She has two tear jerkers to highlight. But I digress yet again.
The synopsis of Within My Heart is interesting and drew me to the novel: “ Widow Rachel Boyd struggles to keep her ranch afloat and provide for her two young sons, though some days it feels as though her efforts are sabotaged at every turn. When her cattle come down with disease and her sons' lives are endangered, she must turn to Rand Brookston, Timber Ridge's physician and reluctant veterinarian. While Rachel appreciates his help, she squelches any feelings she might have for Rand--her own father was a doctor and his patients always took priority over his family. Rachel refuses to repeat the mistakes her mother made. But when she's courted by a wealthy client of the local resort, she faces a choice: self-sufficiency and security or the risk inherent in the deepest of loves. “
The plotline and the narrative were very emotional and I found myself making a strong connection here. I was deeply interested in the characters and what was to happen to them. The dialogue was good, I loved the setting, and Tamera Alexander’s descriptive abilities made me feel like I was right there. The romance novels are taking an edge off my reading each week and I am enjoying it so much. This novel was released in 2009 but it still holds up well; it is historical romance after all. I don’t hesitate to suggest this novel at all. Put it in your Shelfari or Goodreads to read list at the very least.Go off the reservation a bit and get in touch with your feelings with Within My Heart, it will creep into yours.
What are you reading today? Check us out and become our friend on Shelfari & Linkedin. Go to Goodreads and become our friend there and suggest books for us to read and post on. You can also follow us on Twitter, and the Gelati’s Scoop Facebook Fan Page. Did you know you can shop directly on Amazon by clicking the Gelati’s Store Tab on our blog? Thanks for stopping by today; We will see you tomorrow. Have a great day. http://www.gelatisscoop.blogspot.com
(less)

like · see review

Nov 08, 2010 Karen rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

As a widow, Rachel Boyd must be both mother and father to her young sons. Her dream is to raise the boys on the ranch she and her late husband worked hard to build. Life in post-Civil War Colorado isn't easy, and dreams and reality often take different paths. Debt and dying cattle hinder Rachel's goals. Can she turn things around? Only time will tell.

Civil War veteran Dr. Rand Brookston has goals of his own. Setting up his practice in Timber Ridge, he hopes to bring modern medical services to th...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 05, 2010 April rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: inspirational-historical-romance

WITHIN MY HEART by Tamera Alexander is an inspirational historical romance/fiction set in 1877 Timber Ridge, Colorado, Rocky Mountains. It is the third in the Timber Ridge Reflections but can be read as a stand alone. It is well written with details, depth, fast paced and page turner from beginning to end. It has romance, trust,forgiveness, faith, tenderness, love, lost, struggles, broken hearts, courage, fear, and second chances. The characters and their story is heartwretching, heartwarming an...more

like · see review

Oct 17, 2010 Brenda Casto rated it 5 of 5 stars

Rachel Boyd has been struggling to keep her husband's dream alive since his death two years ago. His dream(which became her dream too) was to have a successful ranch that would be a legacy for her two young sons Mitch and Kurt. Some days she wonders if she has made the right choices.It is a major struggle to keep the ranch afloat, with cattle dying and unable to make her payment to the bank she is forced to go to the bank and ask for more money, she also knows she will need to make some tough de...more Rachel Boyd has been struggling to keep her husband's dream alive since his death two years ago. His dream(which became her dream too) was to have a successful ranch that would be a legacy for her two young sons Mitch and Kurt. Some days she wonders if she has made the right choices.It is a major struggle to keep the ranch afloat, with cattle dying and unable to make her payment to the bank she is forced to go to the bank and ask for more money, she also knows she will need to make some tough decisions where the ranch is concerned, but she is no longer sure that the ranch is her dream. Her father was a physician, not always there for his family, but Rachel learned from him the skill of taking care of the sick, she has a natural talent for it.
Rand Brookston is the local physician and sometimes veterinarian, he has issues from his past that he struggles to deal with, but he has been watching Rachel for some time. He admires her greatly often asking her to assist in medical procedures, so when Ben Mullens the local store owner and dear friend of Rachel needs a life saving medical procedure preformed Rand asks Rachel to assist. While she judges Rand based on the way her father was she soon comes to see that Rand is nothing like her father.Can she let down the protective shield she has placed around her heart and learn to love again?

Even though this was the third book in the Timber Ridge Reflections series, I missed the first two and had no problems becoming quickly immersed in this story. I really enjoyed reading this historical romance. Rachel's character had to be tough to run a ranch and raise two boys as well, she relies on God and also has support from friends and family. Her brother is a steady influence in her life, as well as Ben and Lydia. I was so glad when she finally gave in to her feelings for Rand, they needed each other, and he was so good with the boys.

This book was really so much more than just another romance, we saw a young boy deal with behavior issues, a man with heart issues learn that he didn't have long to live, and makes sure his wife is taken care of. We also got a small glimpse of what happened with Rand during the civil war, combine this with Rachel's struggles and you have a book that you won't be able to put down. On a scale of one to five this book easily rates a 5.

Even though I was provided a copy of this book by Bethany House for review it in no way alters my opinion of this book! (less)

like · see review

Oct 15, 2010 Cafelilybookreviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Fans of historical fiction (and romance) will likely devour Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander.

This book is set in 1877, in the Colorado Rocky Mountains and is rich with descriptions of the beautiful scenery. The story focuses on Rachel Boyd, a young widow with two sons who is struggling to keep her ranch going after the loss of her husband. Rachel is a character who is easy to admire. Her determination and independence in the face of all of the challenges that have been thrust upon her, make...more

like · see review

Oct 06, 2010 Laura rated it 4 of 5 stars

As I was reading this sweet historical romance, I kept getting flashbacks of when I used to watch Little House of the Prairie and Road to Avonlea: small town, good morals, God-fearing characters and great storytelling. Just as I thoroughly enjoyed those TV series, I also did this book.

It’s the late 1800s. Rachel Boyd is a widow with two young sons, who is struggling to keep her ranch after her husband dies. Rand Brookston is a doctor who chooses to set up practice in the town of Timber Ridge in...more As I was reading this sweet historical romance, I kept getting flashbacks of when I used to watch Little House of the Prairie and Road to Avonlea: small town, good morals, God-fearing characters and great storytelling. Just as I thoroughly enjoyed those TV series, I also did this book.

It’s the late 1800s. Rachel Boyd is a widow with two young sons, who is struggling to keep her ranch after her husband dies. Rand Brookston is a doctor who chooses to set up practice in the town of Timber Ridge in the wilds of the Colorado Rockies instead of accepting a prestigious fellowship in New York. Both Rachel and Rand have fears they need to confront to move forward in the future. I especially liked Rand’s character and his story, and I wouldn’t have minded at all if it had been expanded. I understood Rand’s fear well, but I thought Rachel’s fear was not as hard to overcome and it prolonged unfounded toward the end of the story.

The setting and the circumstances (I love reading about medicinal practice in the 1800s) was one that truly rendered this book appealing. The medical scenes held my interest, like when an innovative surgery was performed, or when Rand explained a medical phenomena that affected his life in the past. I found these details fascinating.

Alexander’s writing is rich, bringing both setting and emotions to life. I was easily able to see the characters and feel their pain, and I was brought to tears several times. The story is not fast paced but unfolds slowly, and I had to adjust to this pacing. Once I did, I savoured it. Because of this, I found that things were wrapped up a little too quickly in the end. The characters made many references to God and their faith, and some Bible verses were quoted. The message is clear that trusting and relying in God will help one conquer their fears and live a full and satisfying life no matter what trials befall them.

Although this is Book 3 of the Time Ridge Reflection Series, it can be read alone. I had not read the previous ones and I did not feel like I was missing anything. If you enjoy Christian fiction with a sweet romance thrown in, you will definitely enjoy this one. It's one of those cozy books you'll like reading, snuggled on the couch with a hot cup of tea close by.

(less)

like · see review

Oct 05, 2010 Molly rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: everyone

Recommended to Molly by: CFBA, Bethany

Shelves: book-review

I have always been a huge fan of historical romances (can't ya tell with all my reviews?) and so the chance to jump on reviewing Tamera Alexander's book, Within My Heart was one I definitely wouldn't pass up! And I am glad to say, that Tamera's excellently skilled hand has penned a novel that instantly captured my heart and mind when I opened the book.

I loved all the characters in this book. Even the secondary characters. But Rand Brookston was the one that really pulled at my heartstrings. I j...more

1 like · like · see review

Jun 27, 2011 Holly Renee rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction, fiction-historical, fiction-romance, fiction-womens

Whenever I read any of Tamera Alexander's novels, I always know that I can expect an amazing story. Her newest novel, Within My Heart, exceeded those expectations in so many ways.

Rachel Boyd, a young widow, has tried to avoid the town physician for the last two years. Her father had been a physician, and she's seen the arrogance of his kind. Dr. Rand Brookston has spent the last two years trying to get the people of Timber Ridge to trust him--especially Rachel Boyd. When an unexpected event thr...more

like · see review

Oct 13, 2010 Angelc rated it 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

Rachel Boyd lost her husband and has been struggling to manage the ranch he left behind along with their two young sons. When her friend and father figure, Ben, becomes gravely ill, she has to put all of her trust in Dr. Rand Brookston, the town physician. Since her father was a doctor too, Rand enlists her help in a difficult surgery to save Ben's life. Rachel is suspicious of Rand, thinking he's as untrustworthy as a doctor, and as disapproving of her, as her father was. Through this...more

1 like · like · see review

Jun 20, 2011 Peggy Morgan rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian-historical-fiction, christian-fiction

In Tamera Alexander’s Within My Heart a young widow struggles to raise her two young sons while trying to keep her ranch afloat, a testament to her husband’s memory. Although overwhelmed with these responsibilities, she is fiercely independent and reluctant to seek help. However, when her sons lives are endangered she is forced to turn to the town’s new doctor, Dr. Rand Brookston. She does not want to give her heart to the doctor believing that such a relationship would end in heartbreak as it h...more

like · see review

Oct 16, 2012 Wanda rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian-historical-fiction

This is a great read by Tamera Alexander drawing you in from the start with an enticing dialogue. The story takes place in the late 1800's after the civil war in Timber Ridge, Colorado. The scenery comes alive with the vivid description of the Rocky Mountains. The characters are realistic, but not without flaws. Rachael Boyd is still recovering from the loss of her husband and deep wounds of the past. Dr. Rand Brookston is also dealing with past problems and his terrifying ordeal of being buried...more

1 like · like · see review

Aug 08, 2011 Kristen rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, hns

Rachel Boyd, a widow with two sons, is trying to make a success of her late husband’s dream of a ranch in Colorado’s high country in the 1870s. Rand Brookston, the town’s physician, is in love with her. The two are sympathetic characters, as are the dying shopkeep and his wife, who provide a model of married love and faith. Although this is an inspirational romance, author Alexander doesn’t beat her readers over the head with religion. Faith is rather part of the story, as necessary as time and...more

like · see review

Sep 11, 2010 Joy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Within My Heart is not a high drama, action packed historical. There are no big baddies to wreak havoc on our hero and heroine. There are several little baddies, but until the end, the tension is low.

Instead, Within My Heart is the story of love and of loss and of living again. This book sneaks up on you, its vivid scenery and budding romance lowers your guard as the layers of the characters are peeled back. Before you know it, you're hit with an emotional wallop that affects you as deeply as th...more

3 likes · like · see review

Jul 15, 2012 Angela Bycroft rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-to-re-read-again

Widow Rachel Boyd struggles to keep her ranch afloat and provide for her two young sons, though some days it feels as though her efforts are sabotaged at every turn. When her cattle come down with disease and her sons' lives are endangered, she must turn to Rand Brookston, Timber Ridge's physician and reluctant veterinarian. While Rachel appreciates his help, she squelches any feelings she might have for Rand--her own father was a doctor and his patients always took priority over his family. Rac...more

like · see review

Jun 25, 2012 Melissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian-fiction, clean-romances-western, history

I must really like the way this author weaves a story. I can't believe she has compelled me to read the three books in this series. Normally I can't read a series like this, Christian historical romance, they tend to be repetitive and boring. I am very impressed with this author and how she connected each story and gave us back story's in the first that came together threw each novel. I fell in love with all the characters and found myself tearing up over the very real death of one of them. Just...more

1 like · like · see review

Oct 31, 2010 Rel rated it 5 of 5 stars

Tamera Alexander is one of the most talented writers of historical fiction today and that talent is clearly on display in her much anticipated novel, Within My Heart. With tenderness and emotion, Tamera reveals Rachel’s heartbreak and fear following the death of her husband and Rand’s desire to heal and protect. Beautiful prose and vivid characterisation hallmark this enthralling story that will engage anyone who loves historical romance. Tamera is one of the few historical writers with the abil...more

like · see review

Nov 11, 2010 Carol Harlow rated it 3 of 5 stars

Within My Heart is by Tamera Alexander

This is the first book I’ve read from Tamera Alexander. I enjoyed the book, but I did find it a little slow. It has a good story line, a romance that takes place in a small Colorado town around 1877. Tamera saves a few key facts to reveal at the end of the story. I wish she had just shared them at the beginning, as I didn’t see that it would of made any difference.

Rachel is a young widow with 2 young sons and a ranch to take care of. Her father was a doctor...more

like · see review

Oct 30, 2010 Kate rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Kate by: I received a free copy through the Bethany House Book Reviewers program.

Shelves: received-for-review

Although this is the third book in the Timber Ridge Reflections series, this is my first time reading a book by Tamera Alexander. I have the first book of this series on my TBR pile, but I haven't gotten to it yet. Thankfully, this is one of those series books that can stand alone--I didn't feel lost in this story even though I haven't read the first two books of the series.

Within My Heart focuses on widow Rachel Boyd and Dr. Rand Brookston. Rachel is raising her two sons on her own and trying n...more Although this is the third book in the Timber Ridge Reflections series, this is my first time reading a book by Tamera Alexander. I have the first book of this series on my TBR pile, but I haven't gotten to it yet. Thankfully, this is one of those series books that can stand alone--I didn't feel lost in this story even though I haven't read the first two books of the series.

Within My Heart focuses on widow Rachel Boyd and Dr. Rand Brookston. Rachel is raising her two sons on her own and trying not to lose the ranch that her late-husband had worked so hard for. Rand is battling the ghosts of his Civil War experiences while caring for the people of Timber Ridge and saving up money to open a new medical clinic in town. The two are brought together by the health problems of Ben, one of Rachel's closest friends. Rachel's knowledge of medicine (learned from her doctor father) comes in handy for Rand's work, and Rand's knowledge of animal medicine helps Rachel with her ranch. But she's wary of getting too close to Rand--her father's less-than-stellar example of medical men clouds her judgement of him and she still struggles with sorrow over losing her husband. It's only when they both face their fears that they finally give into their hearts.

This was a pretty good romance, but set in some heartbreaking circumstances. Ben's health problems bring the two together, but it is sad to watch him and his wife suffer through his ailments. Rand and Rachel make a pretty sweet couple, and the secondary characters in the story are great as well. Rand's Civil War experience was frankly horrifying and I thought that it gave the story an interesting twist. But even though they fought their attraction and fought with each other, I never really doubted that they would end up together in the end. I was glad they did, but there wasn't that much suspense for me in it. I would love to see how their lives progress after their marriage--did Rachel take on more medical responsibilities? Did her boys accept Rand? Was the health clinic successful?

This was a lovely story set in sad circumstances, but with a good outcome. This wasn't my favorite read of the year, but I am interested in reading more books in the series.(less)

like · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 49 50 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

There are no discussion topics on this book yet. Be the first to start one »

Recommend it | Stats | Recent status updates

combine
Other Editions (6)

More editions...

Genres

Christian Fiction

41 users

Historical Fiction

32 users

Romance

21 users

Christian

11 users

Western

9 users

Romance > Historical Romance

6 users

Romance > Clean Romance

5 users

Romance > Christian Romance

5 users

Christian Fiction > Christian Historical Fiction

5 users

Religion

3 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Tamera Alexander

USA Today bestselling author Tamera Alexander is a novelist whose deeply drawn characters, thought-provoking plots, and poignant prose have earned her devoted readers worldwide as well as multiple industry awards. Tamera enjoys a devoted international following with her books being translated into German, Dutch, and Polish. She recently returned from a book tour in The Netherlands for the release...more

More about Tamera Alexander...

Books by Tamera Alexander

Rekindled (Fountain Creek Chronicles, #1)

From a Distance (Timber Ridge Reflections, #1)

A Lasting Impression (Belmont Mansion, #1)

Beyond This Moment (Timber Ridge Reflections, #2)

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About Within My Heart

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

Quotes from Within My Heart

“But he'd learned long ago that a life lived without risks pretty much wasn't worth living. Life rewarded courage, even when that first step was taken neck-deep in fear.” — 26 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: Within My Heart
avg rating	preview: Within My Heart Goodreads rating: 4.21 (962 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6335685-within-my-heart?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348075835l/6335685.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6335685-within-my-heart?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander[/url]

Within My Heart (Timber Ridge Reflections #3)

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website