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Heart of Gold
The truest treasure is found deep in the heart.
Back in her beloved Virginia, Shannon Adair loved nursing injured soldiers back to health. But in Grand Coeur, Idaho―the rough-and-tumble place where her father has been called to lead the church―she's not sure where she fits in. Then a critically ill woman arrives, and Shannon knows her place at last: to care for this dear woman and ease her pain.
Matthew Dubois is the fastest and most reliable stagecoach driver on Wells Fargo's payroll. But his widowed sister is dying and he's about to inherit his young nephew. So he takes a job at the Wells Fargo express office in Grand Coeur until he can find the one thing he needs to get back to driving: a wife to care for the boy.
What neither of them knows is that God is at work behind the scenes―and is lovingly bringing them together to discover the true desires of their hearts.
Back in her beloved Virginia, Shannon Adair loved nursing injured soldiers back to health. But in Grand Coeur, Idaho―the rough-and-tumble place where her father has been called to lead the church―she's not sure where she fits in. Then a critically ill woman arrives, and Shannon knows her place at last: to care for this dear woman and ease her pain.
Matthew Dubois is the fastest and most reliable stagecoach driver on Wells Fargo's payroll. But his widowed sister is dying and he's about to inherit his young nephew. So he takes a job at the Wells Fargo express office in Grand Coeur until he can find the one thing he needs to get back to driving: a wife to care for the boy.
What neither of them knows is that God is at work behind the scenes―and is lovingly bringing them together to discover the true desires of their hearts.
304 pages, Paperback
First published February 14, 2012
103 people are currently reading
1310 people want to read
About the author
Robin Lee Hatcher
120 books3,252 followersRobin Lee Hatcher is the author of over 95 novels and novellas with more than five million copies of her books in print. She is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. Her numerous awards include the RITA® Award, Christy Award, Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, National Reader’s Choice Award, and the Faith, Hope & Love Reader’s Choice Award, and she is also the recipient of prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards from both American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America®. When not writing, she enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, Bible art journaling, reading books that make her cry, watching romantic movies, and decorative planning. A mother and grandmother, Robin makes her home on the outskirts of Boise, sharing it with a demanding Papillon dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
January 17, 2022
A wonderful story filled with the wisdom and faithfulness of this author. She truly touches my heart especially with her comments at the end of the book.
Shannon and her pastor father move to Idaho from Virginia due to a calling from God. The wax is still raging and Shannon is missing her home.
But she finds her own calling helping a woman who has come to live with her brother bringing her young son
That is all I will say but know you will love this story. Robin I want to know what happens to the sheriff!
Shannon and her pastor father move to Idaho from Virginia due to a calling from God. The wax is still raging and Shannon is missing her home.
But she finds her own calling helping a woman who has come to live with her brother bringing her young son
That is all I will say but know you will love this story. Robin I want to know what happens to the sheriff!
June 30, 2023
This is a Christian romance novel. I liked the characters, the writing style, and the setting - a rustic town in Southern Idaho in 1864.
It is true I'm fairly liberal with my 5 star ratings. I don't mean to say this is earthshaking literature to remember forever, but for the genre and the intention, it is just fine. I saw no reason to take away a star. It is even a lot more Christian than a lot of the other Christian novels I've read, and for me, that's definitely a plus.
The main characters are Matthew, a stage driver, and Shannon, a pastor's daughter who helped nurse injured men in a Civil War hospital before moving to Idaho with her father.
The path of true love didn't run smooth for these two. In fact, at the beginning Shannon detested Matthew because he wasn't a Confederate army sympathizer like she was. They both had a lot to get through before any legitimate love could happen.
The characters seemed realistic and had convincing backstories. He was from Oregon and she was from Virginia.
Once in a while I need a good Christian novel to soothe my heart, and then I can get back to exploring other types of literature.
The content is entirely clean other than some violence which was not graphically described.
It is true I'm fairly liberal with my 5 star ratings. I don't mean to say this is earthshaking literature to remember forever, but for the genre and the intention, it is just fine. I saw no reason to take away a star. It is even a lot more Christian than a lot of the other Christian novels I've read, and for me, that's definitely a plus.
The main characters are Matthew, a stage driver, and Shannon, a pastor's daughter who helped nurse injured men in a Civil War hospital before moving to Idaho with her father.
The path of true love didn't run smooth for these two. In fact, at the beginning Shannon detested Matthew because he wasn't a Confederate army sympathizer like she was. They both had a lot to get through before any legitimate love could happen.
The characters seemed realistic and had convincing backstories. He was from Oregon and she was from Virginia.
Once in a while I need a good Christian novel to soothe my heart, and then I can get back to exploring other types of literature.
The content is entirely clean other than some violence which was not graphically described.
August 31, 2017
3.85 stars
May 9, 2022
Heart of Gold is not my favorite Robin Lee Hatcher book, but it is certainly a good one.
I didn't care much for Shannon at first; she was too self-centered and whiny. Of course, I knew this was part of her character arc, and it turned out to be a good arc, but I still didn't care much for her. The final chapters of the book were really where we see her grow, and I wish we would have been privy to more conversations between her and Matthew after her character arc was complete.
Matthew Dubois. A handsome stagecoach driver who is aloof to everything but stagecoach driving until he receives some heartbreaking news. His character arc was more subtle than Shannon's, but still solid. I do wish the relationship between him and Todd would have been fleshed out more, but the parts there were were touching.
Alice was a delightful character, and I almost cried when a certain event occurred. I knew it would come, the first chapters of the book make that clear, but it still hit hard. But her faith, her grace, and her gentle and kind demeanor quickly endeared me to her despite the heartbreak I knew was coming.
Reverend Adair was a dear character, and I greatly enjoyed the brief snippets of his POV. Todd was a sweet child who'd gone through so much in such a short amount of time. I would really like his story to be written, but given this book was published in 2012, I doubt that wish will be granted.
The history behind the book is quite fascinating. I'm not going to go into detail, but being the history buff I am, I almost like the Author's Note better than the actual book. And I did like this story. There were two handfuls of errors, which almost threw me off when I came across them, but they don't detract from the story. The tale also felt a little rushed, but it was still captivating.
Looking for a sweet, Christian historical romance? Check out Heart of Gold.
I didn't care much for Shannon at first; she was too self-centered and whiny. Of course, I knew this was part of her character arc, and it turned out to be a good arc, but I still didn't care much for her. The final chapters of the book were really where we see her grow, and I wish we would have been privy to more conversations between her and Matthew after her character arc was complete.
Matthew Dubois. A handsome stagecoach driver who is aloof to everything but stagecoach driving until he receives some heartbreaking news. His character arc was more subtle than Shannon's, but still solid. I do wish the relationship between him and Todd would have been fleshed out more, but the parts there were were touching.
Alice was a delightful character, and I almost cried when a certain event occurred. I knew it would come, the first chapters of the book make that clear, but it still hit hard. But her faith, her grace, and her gentle and kind demeanor quickly endeared me to her despite the heartbreak I knew was coming.
Reverend Adair was a dear character, and I greatly enjoyed the brief snippets of his POV. Todd was a sweet child who'd gone through so much in such a short amount of time. I would really like his story to be written, but given this book was published in 2012, I doubt that wish will be granted.
The history behind the book is quite fascinating. I'm not going to go into detail, but being the history buff I am, I almost like the Author's Note better than the actual book. And I did like this story. There were two handfuls of errors, which almost threw me off when I came across them, but they don't detract from the story. The tale also felt a little rushed, but it was still captivating.
Looking for a sweet, Christian historical romance? Check out Heart of Gold.
February 6, 2014
Sometimes I am just so thankful for that Goodreads Book Cover Bingo game I am currently playing. It is times like these, when I have picked up a book to read because it fits the cover that has been called, as find a real jewel! The cover called last Friday was “Locket” and I chose Heart of Gold because the story sounded so interesting. And it was.
This story really flowed for me and I was able to really connect with the characters. Shannon Adair has traveled to Idaho Territory with her father, a reverend. She is not happy to have left her home in Virginia, which is currently embroiled in the battles taking place during the war between the states.
Matthew Dubois has also recently moved to this gold-mining town and has been joined by his dying sister and her young son. Shannon starts filling the need of nurse to Matthew’s sister and although these people come from different backgrounds, on opposite sides of the war, deep feelings begin to develop.
I really enjoyed these characters and the setting for the story. There was a little action and adventure in the story, a sweet romance, some sadness and heartache, and God’s providence throughout the story. I am so glad to have read this.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
This story really flowed for me and I was able to really connect with the characters. Shannon Adair has traveled to Idaho Territory with her father, a reverend. She is not happy to have left her home in Virginia, which is currently embroiled in the battles taking place during the war between the states.
Matthew Dubois has also recently moved to this gold-mining town and has been joined by his dying sister and her young son. Shannon starts filling the need of nurse to Matthew’s sister and although these people come from different backgrounds, on opposite sides of the war, deep feelings begin to develop.
I really enjoyed these characters and the setting for the story. There was a little action and adventure in the story, a sweet romance, some sadness and heartache, and God’s providence throughout the story. I am so glad to have read this.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
October 11, 2017
Back in her beloved Virginia, Shannon Adair loved nursing injured soldiers back to health. But in Grand Coeur, Idaho―the rough-and-tumble place where her father has been called to lead the church―she's not sure where she fits in. Then a critically ill woman arrives, and Shannon knows her place at last: to care for this dear woman and ease her pain. Matthew Dubois is the fastest and most reliable stagecoach driver on Wells Fargo's payroll. But his widowed sister is dying and he's about to inherit his young nephew. So he takes a job at the Wells Fargo express office in Grand Coeur until he can find the one thing he needs to get back to driving: a wife to care for the boy.
This story had a wonderful plot, great characters, and a strong faith element that showed how God can change hearts and minds in order to work His best plans. I loved how Matthew's sister, Alice, a Yankee, by showing her strength, faith, and kindness in a time of trial, taught Shannon not to pre-judge people just because of prior circumstances. Matthew was adorable as he learned to be a gentleman and smooth out his rough western ways. Shannon and Matthew both had to mature before they could understand that what they wanted was not exactly what God had in mind for the best plans for them. Another sweet, historical romance from Robin Lee Hatcher.
Favorite Quotes: "But hate changed nothing. At least nothing for the better. And so she'd given it up and surrendered her heartache to God."
"The Lord does indeed work in mysterious ways. We see only the threads on the back of the tapestry. God sees the whole design."
This story had a wonderful plot, great characters, and a strong faith element that showed how God can change hearts and minds in order to work His best plans. I loved how Matthew's sister, Alice, a Yankee, by showing her strength, faith, and kindness in a time of trial, taught Shannon not to pre-judge people just because of prior circumstances. Matthew was adorable as he learned to be a gentleman and smooth out his rough western ways. Shannon and Matthew both had to mature before they could understand that what they wanted was not exactly what God had in mind for the best plans for them. Another sweet, historical romance from Robin Lee Hatcher.
Favorite Quotes: "But hate changed nothing. At least nothing for the better. And so she'd given it up and surrendered her heartache to God."
"The Lord does indeed work in mysterious ways. We see only the threads on the back of the tapestry. God sees the whole design."
March 28, 2020
This was a well written historical Christian romance novel with good character development. It was interesting seeing that the animosity between Yankees and Confederates reached as far as the Idaho territory. I also liked how the author dealt with how the Chinese were treated back then and appreciated how Reverend Delaney Adair was so sincere in proclaiming his beliefs; one of his go-to verses being Romans 12:18: "if it possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (NIV)" Another thing I liked about this novel was its small thread of suspense and action, which I suppose is rather normal for a "prairie romance;" in any case, it added another layer of interest to the story. Overall, I'm really glad that I read this novel and would actually rate it 4.5 stars if I could.
February 14, 2012
Well, we have all had that feeling like a fish out of water, right? Like for instance you have just moved to a new place and everything just seems foreign, the people, the places, the way they do things. Well that is how the poor heroine Shannon Adair of Heart of Gold by Robin Lee Hatcher feels as she is starting a whole new life with her widowed father Reverend Delaney Adair as they are trying to get settled in Grand Coeur, Idaho, this rather –rougher –than- what -she’s- used –to- type of place, so much different than where she was raised in Virginia. The setting is 1864 smack dab in the middle of the civil war and her Southern allegiances are strong. Her father feels firmly called to this new community of less refinement and sentiments both towards the union and the confederacy, but people he feels called to minister to; Shannon is not so sure. Thus begins her struggle to surrender to God in this new place.
Shannon soon finds purpose to her time in the gold mining town of Grand Coeur by drawing on her nursing skills honed back home in Virginia while tending to many wounded soldiers. But as there is no battlefield here, just a critically ill woman who has recently arrived in Grand Coeur herself, seeking to reconnect with her brother Matt Dubois and with her young son in tow, she is in need of much care and help caring for her son. Shannon immediately has compassion on this woman and a friendship is forged. Not at all impressed by her brother Matt Dubois at first, as his political views did not line up at all with hers, she is not immediately inclined to pay much notice of him, but as time goes on, her interest in Mr. Dubois grows as does his interest in her.
I enjoy books in the civil war era for sure- such a confusing, complicated time for our country at war against itself. I really enjoyed this book and especially liked the character of Reverend Adair as he was a man who really loved God, and although a southerner at heart, he still took a stand with regards to the South’s view on slavery and how he did not feel it was right. He also was very in tune to the prejudice in this small town towards the Chinese population and was taking steps to try and remedy that. I just enjoyed that the character was able to look beyond what the North thought, what the South thought and try to be more concerned with what God thought concerning, people, politics and the church. I thought that was very well done. The romance between Shannon and Matt had a good flow to it and even that moment of crisis (a couple of them) where you hoped that all would turn out right in the end , but you weren’t sure to which I will not divulge how that ends up!
For those that enjoy a good civil war, historical fiction read, this one is for you. Robin Lee Hatcher delivers a lovely read once again.
4 stars
I was graciously provided a free copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through the Booksneeze program. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions expressed were honest and my own.
Shannon soon finds purpose to her time in the gold mining town of Grand Coeur by drawing on her nursing skills honed back home in Virginia while tending to many wounded soldiers. But as there is no battlefield here, just a critically ill woman who has recently arrived in Grand Coeur herself, seeking to reconnect with her brother Matt Dubois and with her young son in tow, she is in need of much care and help caring for her son. Shannon immediately has compassion on this woman and a friendship is forged. Not at all impressed by her brother Matt Dubois at first, as his political views did not line up at all with hers, she is not immediately inclined to pay much notice of him, but as time goes on, her interest in Mr. Dubois grows as does his interest in her.
I enjoy books in the civil war era for sure- such a confusing, complicated time for our country at war against itself. I really enjoyed this book and especially liked the character of Reverend Adair as he was a man who really loved God, and although a southerner at heart, he still took a stand with regards to the South’s view on slavery and how he did not feel it was right. He also was very in tune to the prejudice in this small town towards the Chinese population and was taking steps to try and remedy that. I just enjoyed that the character was able to look beyond what the North thought, what the South thought and try to be more concerned with what God thought concerning, people, politics and the church. I thought that was very well done. The romance between Shannon and Matt had a good flow to it and even that moment of crisis (a couple of them) where you hoped that all would turn out right in the end , but you weren’t sure to which I will not divulge how that ends up!
For those that enjoy a good civil war, historical fiction read, this one is for you. Robin Lee Hatcher delivers a lovely read once again.
4 stars
I was graciously provided a free copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through the Booksneeze program. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions expressed were honest and my own.
January 23, 2018
Inspiring!
I truly enjoyed reading Heart of Gold. The main characters were endearing and the plot filled with just the right mixture of romance, adventure and faith. There were quite a few inspirational quotes I found in the text. This is probably the one that struck home the most for me: “Lord, forgive me for my willfulness. Forgive me for being so quick to judge others. Forgive my foolish, foolish temper. Forgive my pride.”
I truly enjoyed reading Heart of Gold. The main characters were endearing and the plot filled with just the right mixture of romance, adventure and faith. There were quite a few inspirational quotes I found in the text. This is probably the one that struck home the most for me: “Lord, forgive me for my willfulness. Forgive me for being so quick to judge others. Forgive my foolish, foolish temper. Forgive my pride.”
July 20, 2016
My lifelong love of history and romance grew from my roots deep in my home state of Virginia. I truly believe that the answers to our future lie in the questions from our past. It is very important to never forget the sacrifices made by those who have fought to preserve the American way of life. We must also remember that heroes and heroines are real people with imperfections and vulnerabilities. Their gallantry and honor often comes with a high price. The year 2011 marked the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the American Civil War. Not a cause for celebration, but one for reflection and remembrance. It is hard for many of us to imagine the scope of the Civil War. Americans fighting against each other on our home soil. Friends and family members so divided by the cause of "North versus South" that they battled with one another to the death. To this day, the American Civil War remains the conflict in which the most Americans lost their lives. The death toll? Over 600,000 lives were lost in the War Between the States. Not every state became a blood-soaked battleground. One such state was Idaho, the setting for "Heart of Gold" by Robin Lee Hatcher. This is a favorite setting for the author's historical westerns, and she writes with depth about the territory and its people in this era. When Shannon Adair's father feels the call to take his ministry to the gold mining community of Grand Coeur, Idaho, she accompanies him with great reluctance. Shannon deeply loved her home state of Virginia, and she was loyal to the Confederacy and a caring nurse to many wounded soldiers. Her first impressions of her new home and its residents leave her wondering how she will survive in a new, rough-edged society. Matthew Dubois is a top-notch stagecoach for Wells Fargo. When he learns his widowed sister, Alice, is terminally ill and he will be left to care for her young son, he takes a job at the Wells Fargo office and begins thinking of finding a wife to be a mother to his young nephew. Shannon becomes nurse and friend to Alice, and her long-held, seemingly clear-cut opinions begin to blur around the edges as she comes to care for people and a place she once wanted only to leave as soon as possible. Love will have its way, and an undeniable attraction between Shannon and Matthew takes hold of their hearts. They both must grow as individuals before their love can grow into full bloom, and many obstacles are found along the way on their path to real happiness. "Heart of Gold" is a wonderful historical romance, written by an author with a sure touch when it comes to creating involving characters and compelling story lines.
Review Copy Gratis Book Sneeze
"Love is the only gold."
Alfred Lord Tennyson
Review Copy Gratis Book Sneeze
"Love is the only gold."
Alfred Lord Tennyson
February 21, 2012
Set during the Civil War, a preacher and his daughter move out to Idaho Territory. At the same time they move into town, a Wells Fargo driver settles into town with his sick sister and her son.
If you have ever read Christian historical fiction before, that's all I need to tell you. You now know the plot and the ending.
I like historical fiction, but I am sad that Christian historical fiction is so very predictable. Boy meets girl, they fall in love, one or the other then comes to Christ- or if they are already both Christians, they go through some faith building times, almost lose each other for whatever reason, and then get back together and get the happy ever after ending.
I'm not saying this was a bad book. It wasn't. It was a nice little escape; clean and wholesome. But it was predictable. I don't anticipate getting more of Robin Lee Hatcher's books for that reason. While I like a good clean escape novel, I don't really like reading the same thing over and over. I got enough of that when reading Gilbert Morris books as a teenager....
I really wish that Christian authors (and musicians for that matter) would feel that they can be more creative. I think they get stuck in a rut and worried that they have to put a certain amount of Scripture in (or a certain beat) or something, or their book (music) is not godly enough to call Christian. I'm totally ranting here, but it's a bit of a pet peeve of mine. God is so completely creative (look at the variety in the world!), we should use the creative talent He gives us to the uttermost - and to me, the predictability of Christian fiction (and music) is a depressing commentary on our fears. Ok, enough of the rant...
I give this book 3 stars. If you want a nice, clean, relaxing, mindless escape, this is a great book. If you want something different, you might want to look elsewhere.
I received this book for free from BookSneeze in exchange for my honest review.
If you have ever read Christian historical fiction before, that's all I need to tell you. You now know the plot and the ending.
I like historical fiction, but I am sad that Christian historical fiction is so very predictable. Boy meets girl, they fall in love, one or the other then comes to Christ- or if they are already both Christians, they go through some faith building times, almost lose each other for whatever reason, and then get back together and get the happy ever after ending.
I'm not saying this was a bad book. It wasn't. It was a nice little escape; clean and wholesome. But it was predictable. I don't anticipate getting more of Robin Lee Hatcher's books for that reason. While I like a good clean escape novel, I don't really like reading the same thing over and over. I got enough of that when reading Gilbert Morris books as a teenager....
I really wish that Christian authors (and musicians for that matter) would feel that they can be more creative. I think they get stuck in a rut and worried that they have to put a certain amount of Scripture in (or a certain beat) or something, or their book (music) is not godly enough to call Christian. I'm totally ranting here, but it's a bit of a pet peeve of mine. God is so completely creative (look at the variety in the world!), we should use the creative talent He gives us to the uttermost - and to me, the predictability of Christian fiction (and music) is a depressing commentary on our fears. Ok, enough of the rant...
I give this book 3 stars. If you want a nice, clean, relaxing, mindless escape, this is a great book. If you want something different, you might want to look elsewhere.
I received this book for free from BookSneeze in exchange for my honest review.
March 11, 2012
Robin Lee Hatcher is one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading each new release by her. This one, according to the author, did not come without personal challenges. In the course of writing this book she faced physical and emotional hurdles but persevered to finish. I, as a loyal fan of her books, appreciate her effort.
Shannon Adair and he preacher father have left their comfortable life in Virginia to go to Grand Coeur, Idaho where he has been called to pastor a church. Shannon, not at all used to this kind of lifestyle, finds it appalling and wonders how she will survive.
Matthew Dubois has taken a leave from his job as a stagecoach driver for Wells, Fargo to temporarily take a desk job in Grand Coeur, Idaho while caring for his sister, whose illness he finds out is far worse than she had led him to believe. Shannon, who cared for wounded soldiers back in Virginia, becomes her nurse, which puts her is daily contact with Matthew. Matthew however, is having trouble accepting his sisters illness and wonders how he can be a good role model for her 9 year old son.
Matthew and Shannon face obstacles and feelings they were not prepared to face and a test of both of their faiths. Is this a book with no problems? Nope! In the background of this story is a man named Joe Burkette, who while operating the local livery, and attempting to court Shannon, also has an agenda that wasn't clearly defined until the end of the book. His character seems to get lost in the story and possibly could have been better developed. But, as I said, that was a secondary story line.
I read this book in about 5 hours. It was that good. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story with intrigue, doubt, faith and a will to survive.
Shannon Adair and he preacher father have left their comfortable life in Virginia to go to Grand Coeur, Idaho where he has been called to pastor a church. Shannon, not at all used to this kind of lifestyle, finds it appalling and wonders how she will survive.
Matthew Dubois has taken a leave from his job as a stagecoach driver for Wells, Fargo to temporarily take a desk job in Grand Coeur, Idaho while caring for his sister, whose illness he finds out is far worse than she had led him to believe. Shannon, who cared for wounded soldiers back in Virginia, becomes her nurse, which puts her is daily contact with Matthew. Matthew however, is having trouble accepting his sisters illness and wonders how he can be a good role model for her 9 year old son.
Matthew and Shannon face obstacles and feelings they were not prepared to face and a test of both of their faiths. Is this a book with no problems? Nope! In the background of this story is a man named Joe Burkette, who while operating the local livery, and attempting to court Shannon, also has an agenda that wasn't clearly defined until the end of the book. His character seems to get lost in the story and possibly could have been better developed. But, as I said, that was a secondary story line.
I read this book in about 5 hours. It was that good. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story with intrigue, doubt, faith and a will to survive.
July 21, 2013
A sweet and poignant Christian romance set during the Civil War. How a Southern belle gets over her prejudice of Northerners and men not raised as gentlemen in the South. How a Western man gets over his wanderlust and becomes the perfect gentleman. Yes, the plot is somewhat predictable. Yes, you know that the one guy is obviously on the wrong side. But the characters are well written and it is easy to over look some of those obvious and predictable things. Just enjoy the book for what it is.
March 10, 2017
What a touching and inspirational story! Definitely going on my 'favorites' shelf to be read and enjoyed again in the years to come.
March 2, 2019
Heart of Gold is by Robin Lee Hatcher. This novel takes us back to Grand Coeur, Idaho in 1864. In the East, the Civil War is raging while in the West, men are much more concerned with finding gold. Grand Coeur is a gold rush town with its saloons and brothels. However, unlike many of the gold rush towns, this town also has some gentile people who have built a church and some other stores. It is by no means a civilized town; but has the beginnings of one. With her descriptions, Robin Lee Hatcher sets up the town and brings it back to life.
Reverend Delaney Adair has felt a calling to go West to Grand Coeur and bring Christianity to the miners. Leaving his home, Covington House, in Virginia is a choice he willingly makes. However, he also makes that choice for his daughter, Shannon too. Shannon, at twenty-five, had been engaged to marry; but her fiancé was killed in one of the early battles of the Civil War. Shannon had been working as a nurse in one of the hospitals near her home in Virginia. Leaving her childhood home and close friends was not easy for Shannon. Coming to this mining town was definitely a comedown for her. Shannon was spoiled by her Father and thought she must talk her Father out of staying here. Until then, she would make the best of things.
Matthew Dubois was a driver for Wells Fargo. He had always wanted to be a driver and had finally made it. Now, he was voluntarily giving that up for a while. He was going to be an agent in Grand Coeur. He was giving up his dream to provide a home for his sister, Alice, and her son, Todd. Alice’s husband had been killed in the Civil War leaving Alice to raise her son by herself. Their parents were dead so it left Matthew as her only relative. She had become quite ill and Matthew had agreed to help her out until she got better. Wells Fargo had agreed with his becoming an agent and staying in one place and had provided a wonderful house for him to rent. Now he just had to wait until Alice got better.
Robin Lee Hatcher has created two very strong characters in Shannon and Matthew. Both are set in their ways and somewhat stubborn. Neither has any desire to stay in Grand Coeur and had plans to get away. In a fast-paced book, Robin brings the two together and lets the sparks fly. Will either of them get their wish? The book is a good, clean read and one which opens the West to the reader.
Reverend Delaney Adair has felt a calling to go West to Grand Coeur and bring Christianity to the miners. Leaving his home, Covington House, in Virginia is a choice he willingly makes. However, he also makes that choice for his daughter, Shannon too. Shannon, at twenty-five, had been engaged to marry; but her fiancé was killed in one of the early battles of the Civil War. Shannon had been working as a nurse in one of the hospitals near her home in Virginia. Leaving her childhood home and close friends was not easy for Shannon. Coming to this mining town was definitely a comedown for her. Shannon was spoiled by her Father and thought she must talk her Father out of staying here. Until then, she would make the best of things.
Matthew Dubois was a driver for Wells Fargo. He had always wanted to be a driver and had finally made it. Now, he was voluntarily giving that up for a while. He was going to be an agent in Grand Coeur. He was giving up his dream to provide a home for his sister, Alice, and her son, Todd. Alice’s husband had been killed in the Civil War leaving Alice to raise her son by herself. Their parents were dead so it left Matthew as her only relative. She had become quite ill and Matthew had agreed to help her out until she got better. Wells Fargo had agreed with his becoming an agent and staying in one place and had provided a wonderful house for him to rent. Now he just had to wait until Alice got better.
Robin Lee Hatcher has created two very strong characters in Shannon and Matthew. Both are set in their ways and somewhat stubborn. Neither has any desire to stay in Grand Coeur and had plans to get away. In a fast-paced book, Robin brings the two together and lets the sparks fly. Will either of them get their wish? The book is a good, clean read and one which opens the West to the reader.
January 22, 2023
Robin Lee Hatcher’s Heart of Gold is a pleasing Historical Romance with a strong faith element. As southern belle and preacher’s daughter Shannon Adair adjusts to life in Idaho, caring for a dying woman whose husband died fighting for the north, she slowly falls in love with the brother of her new friend while also growing in her understanding of what truly matters. As for Matthew Dubois, he finds what he thought he wanted out of life upended by his sister’s eminent death, caring for his nephew, and finding that his pacifist leanings are not appreciated by the woman he is growing to care for.
As the conflict of the Civil War reaches even into the town of Grand Coeur, Idaho, this story unfolds with a mix of historical fact and invention, conflict, challenges, character growth as well as growing faith and romantic love. And the Reverend Adair’s conversations with his dearly departed wife proved a high point of this story for me. While not my favorite of Robin Lee Hatcher’s Historical Christian Romances, Heart of Gold is an enjoyable and satisfying read that somehow seems to fly by.
This review refers to a paperback copy that I purchased several years ago. It is the first selection for my Backlist23 challenge on Instagram, where I have committed to reading a minimum of 23 backlist books in 2023.
As the conflict of the Civil War reaches even into the town of Grand Coeur, Idaho, this story unfolds with a mix of historical fact and invention, conflict, challenges, character growth as well as growing faith and romantic love. And the Reverend Adair’s conversations with his dearly departed wife proved a high point of this story for me. While not my favorite of Robin Lee Hatcher’s Historical Christian Romances, Heart of Gold is an enjoyable and satisfying read that somehow seems to fly by.
This review refers to a paperback copy that I purchased several years ago. It is the first selection for my Backlist23 challenge on Instagram, where I have committed to reading a minimum of 23 backlist books in 2023.
November 12, 2021
I really enjoyed reading a book set in the Idaho Territories during the Civil War. Typically, the books I've read during that event are set in areas where the fighting was prevalent. I found this different perspective very enlightening. Before reading this, I hadn't ever thought too much about how the war would've affected the territories. I guess I always assumed the West would be spared problems caused by the war. But that they weren't. While the characters in this story were able to escape the battles, the fighting, snd some other aspects of the war, they did face other concerns they directly related to the war, which this story showed me.
I loved the way the relationship between Shannon and Matthew and his family developed. I loved the wisdom and love that flowed out of Shannon's father, the reverend, and how he chose to lead gently by example and thought-provoking questions. And I loved how the characters developed and strengthened as they reached out to God in the midst of their trials.
This story is relevant in so many ways. All the different political opinions and beliefs that took place in this story--the racism, the loyalties to one politicsl side or another, the hatred that stemmed from people's opinions or beliefs--mirror a lot of the things going on in our country today. The author did a fine job of portraying all these things in a realistic way.
I loved the way the relationship between Shannon and Matthew and his family developed. I loved the wisdom and love that flowed out of Shannon's father, the reverend, and how he chose to lead gently by example and thought-provoking questions. And I loved how the characters developed and strengthened as they reached out to God in the midst of their trials.
This story is relevant in so many ways. All the different political opinions and beliefs that took place in this story--the racism, the loyalties to one politicsl side or another, the hatred that stemmed from people's opinions or beliefs--mirror a lot of the things going on in our country today. The author did a fine job of portraying all these things in a realistic way.
January 11, 2025
The story is clean, but too simple. The relationship between the main characters came together too easily, especially since the story tells a lot of what happened without inviting the reader along for the detailed journey. For example, there were several family meals that we are told of that were enjoyable and pleasant, but we don't have any memory to cling to. And much of the story-telling jumps from one thing to another, which almost makes it seem like little cliffhangers in between chapters, making for a jagged telling of the story that leaves out decision-making and follow-through pieces.
I felt like all 4 of the narrators were almost too-versed in their faith and relationship with God which left very little room for growth or necessary tension in that area.
I also didn't like Shannon's overreaction to her upcoming nuptials; she doesn't give Matt a chance to explain, which was annoying; she seemed like a petulant child, afraid of healthy conversation.
I felt like all 4 of the narrators were almost too-versed in their faith and relationship with God which left very little room for growth or necessary tension in that area.
I also didn't like Shannon's overreaction to her upcoming nuptials; she doesn't give Matt a chance to explain, which was annoying; she seemed like a petulant child, afraid of healthy conversation.
August 9, 2023
En underholdende roman, der dog ikke efterlader dybe spor i mit læse hjerte.
En sydstats familie (far og datter), flytter til en guldmine by, hvor krigen mellem nord og syd ikke er det store samtaleemne. Det er lidt af en omvæltning, da krigen har fyldt alt i sydstaterne.
Igennem romanen løber der dog en rød tråd. Krigen har en indflydelse - selv på dem der ikke mener de er involveret og behøver at have en mening. Kan man stå passivt og se på, at en kineser bliver overfaldet på gaden, bare fordi han er kineser? Hvor mange skal lade livet i overfald på diligencen i krigens hellige navn? Og må kineser købmanden opnå en fortjeneste for sit hårde arbejde? Kan man tillade sig at fejre 4. Juli mens krigen raser?
Ja, spørgsmålene er mange!
Det er en romance, så vi har selvfølgelig en kærlighedshistorie.
En sydstats familie (far og datter), flytter til en guldmine by, hvor krigen mellem nord og syd ikke er det store samtaleemne. Det er lidt af en omvæltning, da krigen har fyldt alt i sydstaterne.
Igennem romanen løber der dog en rød tråd. Krigen har en indflydelse - selv på dem der ikke mener de er involveret og behøver at have en mening. Kan man stå passivt og se på, at en kineser bliver overfaldet på gaden, bare fordi han er kineser? Hvor mange skal lade livet i overfald på diligencen i krigens hellige navn? Og må kineser købmanden opnå en fortjeneste for sit hårde arbejde? Kan man tillade sig at fejre 4. Juli mens krigen raser?
Ja, spørgsmålene er mange!
Det er en romance, så vi har selvfølgelig en kærlighedshistorie.
October 10, 2023
Robin Lee Hatcher is a favorite of mine. She does a great job with developing the characters. The appropriate characters are lovable and the unlikable are just that. This story is a quick and entertaining read. A great escape from today’s reality and a great message on judging others and self righteous pride. I gave it three stars only because the issue with the gold heist is a big deal in the story, but then gets just a quick glance at the climax of the story. I feel like that could have been developed more and kind of left the story ending a little flat. Overall though an enjoyable read and anyone enjoying a western love story would be pleased.
September 27, 2025
A Wells Fargo agent falls for a pastors daughter.
Enjoyed being back with this author. Matt and Shannon story was sweet. I didn't like Shannon at first. It was Alice that brought Matt and Shannon together. As Shannon was working with Alice she got to know Matt and Todd. As she got to know them she fell in love with them both. But the livery owner tried to change that. Matt also fell in love with Shannon. But they didn't say it to each other and that caused a rift in their relationship. But they worked it out and they finally got married and Todd had a mom and dad. Hope to have a story about Jack the sheriff he needs someone.
Enjoyed being back with this author. Matt and Shannon story was sweet. I didn't like Shannon at first. It was Alice that brought Matt and Shannon together. As Shannon was working with Alice she got to know Matt and Todd. As she got to know them she fell in love with them both. But the livery owner tried to change that. Matt also fell in love with Shannon. But they didn't say it to each other and that caused a rift in their relationship. But they worked it out and they finally got married and Todd had a mom and dad. Hope to have a story about Jack the sheriff he needs someone.
March 8, 2020
In Virginia, a minister was surprised when an heiress married him. A life of parties and friends, and their daughter Shannon. She was used to nursing the wounded from the war back to health. To get away from the effects of the war he takes a post in Idaho. Shannon expected the worse, it was worse than even that. The parsonage was a shack, the church was a place of beauty, the wooded planks for walkways. A story unfolds of why God wanted her in this place, she was needed to help heal, to find love.
July 10, 2017
I made it to about page 60 and just could not make myself keep reading. I disliked how the book was written. As an example, it bugged me when the father would, as dialog, quote scripture to the daughter as a means of conversation. No preface, just launch into scripture. I didn't like any of the characters at that point. I found myself scan-reading just to get through it. So I returned it for a refund. This is a DNF.
April 2, 2024
Such a sweet story! I loved the additional thoughts from the dad and insights into his character. The hero and heroine both grew through the story and learned more of what God wanted for their lives. I appreciated the insight into the period from a part of the country that I’ve never really considered during this time. I recommend this to anyone who is looking for a sweet story with characters you can cheer for and care for.
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August 8, 2019I love the way prejudice and the Civil War are woven into the love story, taking the heroine from Southern bell to a faithfulness and caring young man.
I am amazed at all the great stories I have discovered by this author, and as it is summer I am reading a new one a week. So grateful for the inspiration and romance!
I am amazed at all the great stories I have discovered by this author, and as it is summer I am reading a new one a week. So grateful for the inspiration and romance!
December 28, 2019
This takes place in Idaho in 1864. It took a while for me to like the main character. I didn't like what happened to another character. I liked the romance, but the story is slow. There is a happy ending for most of the characters.
September 3, 2020
Great woven plot
I enjoyed reading this story. There was the sadness of the cancer but how Robin wrote of the death and how God was there are it real but eased the reader into accepting the death but also looking forward to the future!
I enjoyed reading this story. There was the sadness of the cancer but how Robin wrote of the death and how God was there are it real but eased the reader into accepting the death but also looking forward to the future!
December 18, 2021
1864 Idaho. Shannon is disappointed her widowed Rev dad called to primitive gold mine town. Who arrogant? Matt, wanderlust as Wells, Fargo best driver, in office until sick sis recovers. I predicted C. Stage4 is vulture over me. Brr.
April 30, 2022
Quick novel
This was a quick and easy to read novel. Normal battles of pride and stubbornness a lot of us have to deal with as Christians or not. Makes life harder all the way around. Setting in Idaho while Civil war still going on back east and shows how far-reaching it is.
This was a quick and easy to read novel. Normal battles of pride and stubbornness a lot of us have to deal with as Christians or not. Makes life harder all the way around. Setting in Idaho while Civil war still going on back east and shows how far-reaching it is.
September 28, 2024
A Beautiful Love story. Loved the two main characters, Shannon and Mathew I have to admit I needed my box of tissues near the end of the book. Touching story...and touching words from the Author at the end of the book.
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