To Whisper Her Name

Belle Meade Plantation #1

by Tamera Alexander

Set at Nashville's historic Belle Meade Plantation, the most influential thoroughbred stud farm in America's history, To Whisper Her Name weaves the struggles of real people of the post-war South with the journeys of a man and a woman scarred by betrayal.

Olivia Aberdeen, destitute widow of a man shot as a traitor to the South, is shunned by proper society and gratefully accepts an invitation from "Aunt" Elizabeth Harding, mistress of Belle Meade Plantation. Expecting to be the Harding's head housekeeper, Olivia is disillusioned when she learns the real reason Elizabeth's husband, Confederate General William Giles Harding, agreed to her coming. Not finding the safe haven she expects, Olivia is caught off guard by her feelings for Ridley Adam Cooper, a Southern man who seems anything but a Southern gentleman.

Branded a traitor by some, Ridley Cooper, a Southern son who chose to fight for the Union, is a man desperate to end the war still raging inside him. Determined to learn "the gift" that Belle Meade's head horse trainer and former slave, Bob Green, possesses, Ridley harbors secrets that threaten both their lives.

As Ridley seeks to make peace within himself for "betraying" the South he loved, Olivia is determined to never be betrayed again.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Historical, Historical Romance, Christian, Fiction

473 pages, Paperback

First published October 16, 2012

About the author

Tamera Alexander is a USA Today bestselling author and one of today's most popular writers in the inspirational historical fiction genre. She and her husband live in Nashville, Tennessee, not far from the Southern mansions that serve as the backdrop for six of her award-winning novels.

Reviews

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just thought I would add a little background on why I read this particular book.

While on vacation a couple of years ago in Nashville my husband and I went for a tour of the Belle Meade Plantation and I was totally intrigued with the history behind this plantation so I picked up TO WHISPER HER NAME in the gift shop. While I was paying for my purchases I was told that TAMERA ALEXANDER was actually there right now doing a book talk. I found myself a little bit excited just knowing she was there at the same time as I was visiting this beautiful plantation. What a coincidence! Now here is the best part. The author all of a sudden was there standing right beside me and asked if I would like my book signed. What? Really? You would do that for me? I have never had a book signed in person before and I would never want to intrude in a setting where I wasn't actually involved in. I am a really shy person. TAMERA ALEXANDER was so nice and said it would be her pleasure. So now I have a signed copy of this book with an absolutely beautiful and memorable inscription!

This book was an absolutely wonderful read that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish!

[✨ Gramy ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

.
I listened to the audio version of this story on Hoopla, which was just over 17 hours long, accessed through the public library system. The narrator was Tavia Gilbert, who sounds different than the majority of the narrators I've heard. Yet, I found her rendition interesting with noteworthy tones, accents, and inflection.

This historical fiction based story focused on the depiction of the struggles and culture set-in the post-civil war era, which was a very turbulent time in the South's history, near Belle Meade Plantation, in Nashville, Tennessee, owned by Confederate General William Giles Harding and his wife, Elizabeth. This lengthy tale addresses overcoming secrets, fears, tension, and challenges. While it also promotes inspiration, dreams, and romance. The author is able to bring history alive for the interested reader.

Olivia Aberdeen is a contradiction to herself, raised as a fine lady, the widow of an arranged marriage that left her with many painful memories and the fear of ever having to experience that kind of abuse being under the thumb of a man again. She immerses herself into a new world, determined to change things. Through chance, she is often in the company of Mr. Ridley Cooper, a southern gentleman, beginning on the day she traveled to arrive on the plantation. Mr. Cooper is on the plantation due to his interest in learning how to train horses. However, he has secrets he would rather not be revealed...

This book includes scenes that emphasize that most southerners were still prejudice, having unreasonable feelings about the status of women, considering immigrants as a lower class, treating people in a hostile nature, hell-bent against equality regarding women and ethnic or racial groups. The outcome of the war had not changed their way of thinking at all.

While I normally relish a longer length in the stories I become engaged in, this one did drag on somewhat, I suppose it could have been related to the day to day explanations and seriousness of the material. I feel like there is enough anxiety and stress in real life and don't relish coming face to face with it in my literary adventures. There was not enough humor and warm fuzzy feelings to stack up. The few 'ummm....hmmmm's and scattered giggles were just not enough to register high enough on my humor meter to qualify as satisfactory.

In the end, I was appreciative of the clean telling of this tale, the complexity, the interesting details, and the ability to relate to most of the characters. This was a lengthy and comprehensive interpretation of life there after the Civil War ended and I breathed a sigh after finally crossing the finishing line of the long sought after conclusion. No more anxious moments, interferences, or such. Just the combined agreement to begin a new life!

[Tweety · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I love about this book is the characters, they each have their own personality, none of them feel like paper cut outs. Though Within My Heart is still my favorite, this one does come close.


What I love about Tamera's writing is that she lets you get right inside the characters, you feel their every emotion.

There's something magical about how Olivia learns to forgive the north, forget her husband and move past her paralysing fear of horses, which is fortunate, since Mrs. Olivia is now living on a stud farm.

Robert Green, (Uncle Bob), is without question my favorite character, he has a gentle spirit and a lively sense of humor. Suzanna was my other favorite, the way she teases Ridley and Olivia does beat all. Ridley Cooper was a strong man with a sence of duty, similar to General Harding, but unlike Harding, I really enjoyed Ridley coming onto the page. He made you want the best for him.

Which brings me to my favorite scenes, the trellis was Olivia's first step to trusting Ridley and it has stayed with me since my first read of it. Then there is the carriage scene at the beginning, that was the page that truly hooked me. And last but not least, the Shindig and it's "version of the waltz", by the end I don't think it was anything like a waltz! It was one of the most enjoyable moments, and also my very favorite.

I also like that Ridley's deception wasn't glossed over at the end, it wasn't like everyone was fine with it, he did hurt people by doing what he felt was right. But because the author gave the character time to come to terms Ridley's evasion of the truth, Olivia's reaction stayed true to character.

My only dislike...

I just couldn't bring myself to like General Harding, just Did Not Like Him. I don't know why, maybe because he would rather do the wrong thing and save face?

PG For the suggestion that one of the former slaves was related to the Hardings and for Olivia's abusive husband, (no, we don't get details or a story). Because of that, Olivia's trusting is truly a turning point for her; So, you just mustn't miss her story!


One last thing, I'm not a history buff but I'm pretty sure that women were not wearing bustles right at the end of the civil war, because, how could you wear those huge hoops and a bustle?




First Bustle, from http://sucheternaldelight.wordpress.c... Does it look civil war-ish to you?




HERE is a civil war gown from http://www.gwtw4ever.com/lifesizeport... This book is set right at the end of the Civil War. But, I still enjoyed it, none of this took away from my enjoying it.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story! I read it more slowly than usual, yet still finished it in one day...perks of being at the car dealership for 4.5 hours and then staying up a couple hours too late for "one more chapter".
I enjoyed so much of it that it's difficult to review. I loved Uncle Bob, and the horses added so much to the story.
For critique, two things jumped out at me. First, her wearing a bustle and a hoop. Ummm, a little ahead of time...and it felt really weird that it would fall off easily anyway. Hoop, yes. Bustle...I think that was about a decade later.
Second, "mantle". Sorry to break the news, but a mantle is a physical or figurative piece of clothing. If it's something built over a fireplace, it's a mantel. No debate. It's sad the publisher's editor missed on both counts.
But the rest was fabulous. :)

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding! When I pick up a book from Tamera Alexander, I always know that I will be in for an enjoyable experience and this one truly delivered! She is a gifted storyteller and has the ability to make the reader feel like they have been transported to another time. Having visited Belle Meade in the past, I don’t think she could have picked a better setting, and she did a beautiful job with the vivid descriptions.

As far as the characters, I loved Ridley and Olivia. I was entertained by their playful banter and enjoyed watching their budding romance. I also loved aunt Elizabeth and absolutely adored the servants. Although they had been through so much and had previously been denied basic rights, they had such positive attitudes and showed so much love towards others. Of course, Uncle Bob was my favorite. I think the whole world would benefit if we all had someone as wise as Uncle Bob in our life. This was truly a beautiful story about hardship, love, and forgiveness! I will be thinking about this one for quite some time.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm going to be honest--I had no idea that I would end up LOVING this book. But love it, I did. The setting, the plot, the romance, everything flowed and worked so well together. I felt as if I walked up the long drive of Belle Meade plantation and didn't leave until the story ended.

Each of the characters were so well crafted, and though Alexander could have easily relied on "stock" characters, she did no such thing. They all had their foibles and frailties, their secret sorrows and triumphs. Olivia and Ridley were both fun and exasperating--just the way rwo people falling in love can be.

I loved every Southern-infused aspect of the setting and the post-Civil War time period felt so genuine and authentic. I definitely hope that Alexander returns to Belle Meade, but if not, I am entirely pleased by the outcome of Olivia's journey and am eager to read the Alexander novel I already have waiting on my shelf!

[Miriam Simut · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5

I am SO GLAD I re-read this!! I remembered loving this book the first time I read it and I thought for sure I wouldn't love it as much upon a re-read. But I truly adored this book! It's such a simple story that really doesn't have that much of a plot, but the characters were all so endearing and I was so invested in each of their lives. I only knocked off half a star because the ending was too abrupt. I can't wait to re-read the other two books in this trilogy!!

[Gretchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a phenomenal novel❤️- great character depth, well developed romance, rich history, engaging storyline. It kept my interest the entire length! Although I read one of her older western books in my high school days I really feel like this was my first book by her since she is the queen of civil war novels. I confess I haven’t had much interest in her books but was so pleasantly surprised by this book that I now will joyfully seek out more.

[Staci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tamera Alexander weaves history and fiction so beautifully. To Whisper Her Name takes the history of Belle Meade just after the end of the Civil War and adds in believable characters. There were many fascinating details about the workings of a horse farm.

This novel is highly recommended for fans of historical fiction. I look forward to reading the next novel in this series.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where I got the book: review copy provided by the publisher. This review first appeared on the Historical Novel Society's website and in the Historical Novel Review, issue 63.

Alexander’s latest romance is set on the Belle Meade stud farm near Nashville just after the end of the Civil War. Ridley Cooper comes to the plantation to learn horsemanship before heading out to the Rockies to start his own farm; he conceals the fact that, although a Southerner, he fought on the Union side against slavery. He meets Olivia Aberdeen who, embittered by her late husband’s cruel treatment and his betrayal of the Confederacy, has accepted a post as companion at Belle Meade despite her fear of horses.

Smooth, sparkling dialogue and likable characters make this novel a pleasant read, and Alexander provides plenty of plausible conflicts to draw the reader onward. Olivia’s and Ridley’s spiritual growth is sketched with a skillful hand, and their relationship proceeds agreeably from the initial physical attraction to a true partnership based on respect, commitment, and friendship.

The historical elements are convincing, my only objection being costume-based. The running gag about Olivia’s bustle is improbable, as the bustle was not in fashion as early as 1866, and it is difficult to reconcile the scenes where Olivia climbs out of a carriage window and, later, down a trellis with the crinoline and crotchless underwear of the era. These cavils do not detract from my overall enjoyment of the story.

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed all of the author’s previous titles, especially her Colorado historicals, but I have to say, this latest Southern antebellum novel in “To Whisper Her Name” evoked a love for southern fiction I didn’t know I possessed.

The novel is rich and to be savored. I read the story slowly, not because it didn’t thoroughly capture my attention, but only because it didn’t feel right to blaze through for the sake of simply reading. I fell in love with the characters as they fell in love with each other. Something I think only an excellent author can accomplish over nearly five hundred pages.

There is a tapestry of love and grace and finesse through every single page that brings the characters and reader together, directly into the heart of the story. There was no doubt the place I sat while I reading this story: the veranda of the Belle Meade.

Olivia and Ridley are dynamic characters. The Belle Meade a place of rich extravagance. The voice of the novel a gripping delicacy. Description doesn’t rule the novel, which is one thing I appreciated about it…I saw the characters interacting with their surroundings and it worked. Every single word of this novel simply…worked.

I’m impressed, grateful and eager for the next novel in this Belle Meade series. A well-crafted work of fiction!

This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a book I didn't want to end! Why did it have to end?! This has definitely been one of my favorite books I've read this year. It was so rich and beautifully written. I loved the historical setting of the South post-Civil War, all the descriptions of Belle Meade Plantation with its thoroughbred stud farm, and all the wonderful characters that graced this story. Loved it all!

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a gem!! Such a good story. I loved the hero Ridley, his personality was so attractive! He was so patient with Olivia. I really enjoyed watching their love story unfold. The way their friendship grew was so sweet. I loved the additional character's and their personalities and their relationships with Olivia & Ridley they were so endearing and fun. I found myself smiling or chuckling as I read some of their dialogues. I have really come to appreciate Tamera's style of writing and her conviction towards accurately portraying historical events and characters. It was so interesting to read/learn about the Belle Meade Plantation. I also REALLY appreciate her ability to have the characters in her books honestly communicate & honestly/realistically react to one another. The reactions are often mature and true-to-life but not predictable. She never lets a kept secret be the main plot and cause of dissension between characters-I really appreciate and respect that! Often author's lean on that plot (a kept secret) too much and it's such a predictable and frustrating plot!
SPOILER ALTERT: I was a little let down by the ending--it's not that it wasn't good but it just felt like a little more should've been shared based on the build up and anticipation. The big question was how would Ridley and Olivia end up together. Towards the end, when you see how that happens, it felt a little rushed but more than that it just felt unfinished...like it needed another chapter or at least an epilogue. I was also bummed that Ridley left without saying good-bye, that seemed out of character for him and we never got to hear their conversation about it. But that might just be me and my preferences. Other than that...the story was captivating the whole time... on to the next one! 😊

[Amanda Geaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a growing fondness for books written by Tamera Alexander. While they tend to be long, she manages to hold my attention the whole way through. In both the books I've read, I've really enjoyed her spirited female protagonists. I also admire the way her minor characters enrich these stories.

To Win Her Favor will be my next audiobook indulgence. {Tavia Gilbert is my favorite narrator!}

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is 470+ pages and crazily enough, I wanted more.

I love Tamera's writing, and for 2023 my reading goal is to reread all the books I have from her on my shelves. So I started with this one, as it fit's the prompt for Chantel's readathon for January.

This book is a slice-of-life story, something I've come to love about Tamera Alexander's writing. We get the day-to-day life events which sometimes slows a book down (although I love this when well-done), but the story is so engrossing I flew through the pages.

While it features a miscommunication aspect that I don't enjoy (read: a hidden secret in character A's past that character B is clueless to for the entire story), I absolutely fell in love with the characters and easily looked past that part.

If you love Civil war stories featuring a more unbiased approach, traditional male + female roles, southern belles, and thoroughbred horses, you should pick this one up! (You should pick it up regardless - I don't think you'd regret it!)

Content Notes
- This could be a spoiler but it is a trigger for some people so I'm not going to hide it. One character suffered spousal abuse in a previous marriage. There are moments the character reflects on that time, which are not detailed.
- This actually takes place after the Civil war, so very minimal (not detailed) violence in this one.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first of the Belle Meade series, which are meant to be read alongside the author's Belmont series. Anyhow, as was the case with the first two books of her Belmont series, I really loved this historical novel. It was a complex, sweet story, and I enjoyed the characters. I look forward to reading more of this series, and I can honestly say that Tamera Alexander has become one of my favorite authors of historical fiction.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not sure how, but Tamera Alexander doesn't seem capable of writing a less-than-fabulous book and To Whisper Her Name is another fine example! I fell in love with the characters, felt their joy, felt their pain. Alexander does a fantastic job really pulling you in to where you feel like you're living right alongside the characters at the Belle Meade Plantation!
I absolutely loved Olivia, Ridley, and especially Uncle Bob! The characters were lovable, inspiring, and in some ways convicting. This was an absolutely fantastic, clean, wholesome, and (of course) romantic read!

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A riveting read set in the first couple of years after the Civil War. I loved the thoroughbred theme and the author gave a lot of depth to the main characters. Also, my heart completely melted during the last couple of pages. Such a perfect ending!

[ضحى الحداد · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't exactly say it is a Christian Fiction but it does hold all the elements for it, I liked the book very much, the relationships and the friendships are so cute specially the servants
there are so many cute moments between Olivia and Ridley and I liked how their relationship developed in a slow burn manner that made me root for the two all the way
The ending wasn't to my liking .. it is happy but I don'e know why I felt underwhelmed, but overall it was an enjoyable read .. I will continue with the series

[Arlena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author: Tamera Alexander
Published by: Zondervan
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4
Review:


"To Whisper Her Name" by Tamera Alexander was a wonderful historical christian romantic long read that has it all. This setting was from 'Belle Meade Plantation' in Nashville, TN. (1866) following the Civil War where you will find "Southerners who fought on the side of the South, the women who were left behind to defend their homes, a Southerner who aligned himself with the North during the war, the widow of a Southerner who betrayed them all, last but not least, the slaves who had recently gained their freedom" and most importantly 'Belle Meade Plantation' raises thoroughbreds.

This story deals with Elizabeth and Ridley a couple of years after the war with secrets that will 'make or break them.' If you are a reader of Ms. Alexander's novels you will note that this novel is one of her best ones. "To Whisper Her Name" was a excellent novel with an long and detailed engaging story that really shines through with what all going on. Yes, this novel somewhat predictable at times but still a good read. The characters are well developed, 'marvelous and meticulously crafted' ...keeping you turning the pages will all of the drama that comes along from the read.. A few characters like Uncle Bob, General Harding and Rachel could have stories of their own being so complexed and all! To get a real fill for this read you must pick up the good read to find out which way this author is taking the reader. Be prepared for a long read.

If you are looking for a novel of faith, love, forgiveness..."To Whisper Her Name" will take you there and would I recommend this as a good read? YES!

[Abbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is sad how long it took me to read this book! I loved the first book of the Belmont Mansion series and could not wait for this book to release. But then it took me a bit to get a copy and review books kept getting in the way but I finally found the opportunity to read it when my copy of the second book in the series arrived. Thankfully I'm able to report that this book was worth the wait and I loved it! I absolutely love all of the research that this author does and it really shines through in her books. Every chapter is filled with rich historical detail but it never overtakes the story, just enhances it.
I loved Ridley and Olivia's characters and I really enjoyed all of the banter between the two of them. It was so much fun to watch their relationship play out.
The other characters were great too especially Bob Green!
I also really liked getting to visit Belle Meade through this book and it made me want to visit the actual plantation someday.
I'm sorry this is a short review but since I read the book a few months ago it's hard to remember all the details! I do know that I loved it and definitely recommend it to all fans of this era!

[Koki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tento román patrí k jedným z najlepších, aké som za posledné roky čítala. Som uchvátená, očarená, unesená, fascinovaná...

Autorka v románe zachytáva povojnové obdobie, kedy bolo zrušené otroctvo. Je vidieť, že ľudia na Juhu sa s tým nezmierovali ľahko a černosi stále ostávali diskriminovaní. Tamera to krásne zobrazila napríklad v tom, že mali nižšie mzdy ako belosi a tiež im nedovolili študovať. Nechávali ich negramotných, aby nevedeli čítať, písať, počítať.

Boli však aj ľudia, ktorí s nimi cítili, chceli, aby sa zaradili do spoločnosti. Medzi nich patrí hrdinka, Olivia, ktorá čiernym pomáha. Učí ich abecedu, základy písania, čítania. Chce, aby si mohli prečítať noviny, aby si vedeli prečítať, a poprípade, aj podpísať dôležité dokumenty. Všetko, čo pre nich robí, robí potajme. Predsa len ona je z inej vrstvy, vyššej, a hoci si všeličo preskákala, na statku Belle Mead býva u známej, ktorá jej pomohla po tom, ako jej manžela zabili za vlastizradu. Zvyšok recenzie je tu: http://kokinakniznica.blogspot.sk/201...

[Emilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book so much more than I thought I would. It was a wonderful historical romance! I don't always like this time-setting, post-Civil War in the South, but it really opened my eyes and I loved it!

[Sharon Mariampillai · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great read. The story was great and had light Christian themes implemented in the story which was more enjoyable for me. I really enjoyed the story though despite how long the book was. Also, the characters were well-written. I really liked Olivia's character as she tries new things. Also, I really liked Ridley. He never gave up on Olivia. The ending was great. I can't wait for the rest of the series. Overall, an enjoyable read.

[Kym McNabney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, I am at awe of TAMERA ALEXANDER'S writing. Don't let the number of pages intimidate you. TO WHISPER HER NAME will take you on a journey. One you will never want to end, with exquisite writing, an amazing storyline, and three-dimensional characters, both in the main as well as the secondary characters. It is packed full of great lines that won’t disappoint.

With nowhere to go, and her reputation ruined by her late husband, Olivia Aberdeen arrives at Belle Meade Plantation as a guest of her deceased mother's good friend, "Aunt" Elisabeth. If truth were told, Olivia’s Aunt's husband, Confederate General William Giles Harding, is not too keen on the idea.

Ridley Cooper, a Southern man who chose to fight for the Union, finds himself at the Belle Meade Plantation, seeking knowledge of training thoroughbreds. He doesn't expect to stay long, but with encouragement from General Harding, Ridley's short stay extends to a year. Not that he minds. In fact, getting to know Olive has made his decision to leave harder then he could have imagined.

Ridley has a secret he has vowed not to reveal. Olivia has scars from an abusive marriage, and is determine to not marry again. Only time will tell if they both can overcome their past in order to have a future.

TO WHISPER HER NAME is filled with a touch of history, adding to the rich plot. A glimpse into what slaves endured, as well as faith, woven in a subtle, yet powerful way. Each character comes to life with their own story. How could one not fall in love with Ridley and Olivia.

Make sure to check out the book trailer, along with a short video of MS ALEXANDER’S at Belle Meade, with a peek into the history behind the Plantation.

[ASC Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! That is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about this book. "To Whisper Her Name" has been such a contradiction for me. It felt at times that it would never end, and yet, I found a part of me didn't want it to. Filled with the true South, it reminded me of Gone with the Wind and the Daughters of Twin Oaks series, but with it's own legs to stand on. Filled with characters that steal your heart, are complete scalawags, anger you, and one that leaves you not knowing how you feel about him. Completely shocking twists that I never saw coming and blew my mind! Tamera's writing style is intelligent, but sometimes overly so. I love the way she strings words together, but at times it got a little wordy. This book is filled with fabulous and exciting moments, but it had lulls in between them. My opinion is that this book was a little long for my liking. But it is an amazing story that I wholeheartedly recommend, and do not regret spending so much time reading! "To Whisper Her Name" must be read, savored, and contemplated! Capturing the elegance, pain, devastation, and beauty of the South, that came with the changes after the war, Tamera paints the picture wonderfully!

My songs for this book are, "Softly and Tenderly" by Deborah Liv Johnson, "Wild Horses" by Natasha Bedingfield, "Battle Hymn Of The Republic" by Shedaisy

John 14:1-3, Galatians 3:27-28

~ASC

[Cara Putman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tamera Alexander is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical authors. There is something about her novels set in Antebellum Nashville that draw me in and keep me reading. I couldn't read this novel fast enough. Besides the GORGEOUS cover, the characters were wonderful Olivia Aberdeen is a widow in a desperate situation who is welcomed at Belle Meade Plantation. She knows she is a charity case, but fights to come into her own. Ridley Cooper is a huge part of that happening. He sees a depth and strength to her that she doesn't acknowledge and teased, cajoles, and drums it out of her. At the same time he has deep secrets that he can't reveal...and so he dances a line of telling almost the full truth as he works with the thoroughbreds at Belle Meade. Neither can marry the other for big and oh-to-real reasons despite the growing reality they may be in love. Add in the rich history that is woven through the pages, an incredible cast of secondary characters, and this is a story that is going on my keeper shelf. Wonderful, truly wonderful book that is perfect for those who love a compelling romance set in another time.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher.

[April Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tamera Alexander is a gifted author. Her writing style is distinct. I will probably give myself a little more time between her novels next time, so two unrelated novels don't run together. She does such a fantastic job of creating realistic, well-developed characters in a unique, detailed setting. I also appreciate her trying to stay historically accurate. And while she is a Christian author, the romance is not lacking in her stories. There is nothing cheesy about them.

And this particular novel is probably one of my favorite love stories ever... for all the reasons listed above.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

GLORIOUS, AMAZING, BREATHTAKING!! Words will not do this book justice. I was intimidated by the size of it, but once I started reading the pages flew through my fingers! This book deserves 5++++++ stars/ Definitely one of my all time favorites. To think, I have only read one of Tamera Alexander's books. I can not wait to dive into them all :)

[Julka Ďurčeková · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5*