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Mercy Medallion Trilogy #1
Traces of Mercy
From Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley, authors of The Silent Gift and creators of the hit television film Love Comes Softly, comes the first book in an exciting historical romance series set in post-Civil War, and filled with suspense and faith-building values. At the war’s end, a young woman suffers an accident that leaves her unconscious and alone. Waking with amnesia, she takes the name Mercy and wants more than anything to find out the truth of her past. But then a handsome stranger arrives, who may hold the key to everything she has forgotten. What he knows could devastate her future, and even end her life. Written by two proven storytellers, Traces of Mercy is perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, prairie-based tales, or just a good romance.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2013
97 people are currently reading
1463 people want to read
About the author
Michael Landon Jr.
8 books69 followersMichael Landon Jr., son of television legend Michael Landon, is an award-winning storyteller, first in television and film, and now in books. His print works include Traces of Mercy and One More Sunrise co-written with Tracie Peterson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
July 10, 2013
He had fallen in love with the enemy.
3.5 stars. There were two reasons I wanted to read Traces of Mercy :
1. It was co-written by Michael Landon Jr. who had a hand in bringing the Love Comes Softly books to television.
2. I am fascinated with tales of memory loss.
She found her own eyes in the glass again. "Who am I?"
But this wasn't like any other amnesia spin I'd seen before. The woman in question started out (known to the reader) as a soldier in the Confederate army at the tail end of the Civil War. She was posing as a man in order to fight for the South.
She lost her memory shortly after showing mercy to a Union soldier. This is where the prologue ends and the real story begins.
Taken in by nuns and left to fend for herself, Mercy has to start over - to carve a new path in the world - without any memories of the life she had before, or if she even belonged to anyone.
Of course life is going to hurl at least a few obstacles in the way of a young woman trying to start life anew.
I liked this book, but...
We'll get back to the 'but' later. First things first. I loved the way I was thrown right into the midst of the war. That prologue was intense.
The bullet hit the man dead center in his forehead. He didn't even have time to blink before he died. One hundred fourteen.
It would have been great to have gotten to see bigger glimpses of the "before" Mercy. We got some of her memories and revelations later in the book, but I was interested in knowing more about what drove her to war.
The time period is one I haven't read much of recently. Most of my Civil War reads were school-related, and I haven't sought out much fiction from this time period. I'm thinking that I should, since this was such a huge turning point for the country that I live in. Shows like Hell on Wheels have made me take more notice of just how tough it must have been for everyone, free men and newly freed slaves alike, trying to carve out a new life in this rapidly changing world.
I had a few moments of feeling uncomfortable at the obvious speech differences between black and white characters, but since I don't know enough about the time period to know how everyone spoke in the different regions of the country, I am assuming that the authors were going for some sort of historical accuracy when it came to this.
So we had two guys who crossed paths with Mercy. I (big surprise here) never warmed to the one we are supposed to like, but I was swooning over the other guy.
There were a few unexpected events and even a couple of moments which got me emotional. I love those random emotion checks because they always add something extra to the story.
Some of the time spent with the sisters and Rand's family probably could have been cut back or reworked, but overall this was still a sweet little book/novel/whatever - and this is probably the right place to transition over to the 'but' I mentioned earlier.
And now for the but... I'm so confused now about the ending. I almost want to go back and re-read to see if I am positive about what's going on here. Is there a book 2, or are we readers left to our own devices to imagine what comes next? I'M CONFUSED, PEOPLE.
I'm starting to loathe when I see books with the words "A Novel" on them because :
1. Duh. We get that it's a novel. If those words weren't there, would we think we were reading a phone book or something that wasn't a novel?
2. You'd think these words would mean that the book reads as a stand alone, but I've been seeing it on first-in-a-series books lately.
If this was the end of the line for the story, that was one heck of an open ending and I'm not sure how I feel about it. Unfortunately, there's no way to know if there's going to be a book 2 for a while because galley copies aren't always labeled as 1 of a series, even if they are. So now I get to sit and wait and see if we're getting more or not.
I almost assumed we'd get a Love Comes Softly type of series in which all of the characters were connected and we'll see cameos from the book 1 characters in future books, even though the story has moved on to other people. But I don't know. And won't know for a while.
Waiting to find things out kind of sucks.
How spiritual is the book? It's fairly low-key. Readers of non-religious fiction should be fine with this book. There are a few mentions of prayer and God but it doesn't overwhelm the story.
This book provided from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All quotes have been taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted from the final copy.
July 14, 2014
I received this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
We first see Mercy as a soldier in the Confederate army fighting for the South. The readers are not privy to this information. After an accident and sparing the life of an Union soldier, she loses her memory, and is taken into the the care of nuns, while simultaneously curving a life for herself.
Firstly, this book is categorized as religious, but I don't find it overly so. There are Christian undertones, but it's to be expected in post-civil war America.
I found this book to be an engaging and quick read. The plot was fast paced but not confusing or randomly so. We have the usual romance happening with gentleman callers and propriety and what is accepted and what is not.
I had a few issues with the ending. It was abrupt and I don't think it fit the stride of the story properly. Here we are moving along and then...wait what? I think I missed that part. I think I missed several parts.
Overall, Traces of Mercy is something to consider if you're looking for a quick and easy read.
We first see Mercy as a soldier in the Confederate army fighting for the South. The readers are not privy to this information. After an accident and sparing the life of an Union soldier, she loses her memory, and is taken into the the care of nuns, while simultaneously curving a life for herself.
Firstly, this book is categorized as religious, but I don't find it overly so. There are Christian undertones, but it's to be expected in post-civil war America.
I found this book to be an engaging and quick read. The plot was fast paced but not confusing or randomly so. We have the usual romance happening with gentleman callers and propriety and what is accepted and what is not.
I had a few issues with the ending. It was abrupt and I don't think it fit the stride of the story properly. Here we are moving along and then...wait what? I think I missed that part. I think I missed several parts.
Overall, Traces of Mercy is something to consider if you're looking for a quick and easy read.
July 23, 2013
I loved this story and loved getting to know Mercy . . . look forward to reading more about her as more stories are added to the series.
January 19, 2023
This was not the predictable historical romance I was expecting. Mercy made some bad decisions that made me dislike her there for a while, but there was plenty of drama and a couple surprises along the way, so I didn't quite know how this would all play out. Overall, I quite enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next book.
October 10, 2013
The setting for this story is the tumultuous weeks just as the Civil War has ended. Still fueled by hatred, the north and south refuse acceptance of the ideals of one other. Found unconscious with a severe head injury and a bullet wound to the calf, a young man was examined by a doctor and discovered to be a young woman dressed as a man with her hair worn short. After days of unconsciousness she awakens to find she has no memory of who she is or if she has family and where they might be. With no other name to go by, and found wearing a medal with the word "Mercy" hanging around her neck, the doctor calls her Mercy. To complete her recovery the doctor arranges for her to stay at a local convent. Memories fail to return, and as Mercy is courted by the area's most eligible bachelor she is eventually moved to Rand's family cottage. Rather than linger over memories that refuse to surface Mercy looks to her future and happiness with Rand at her side.
Traces of Mercy is written with remarkable originality and an ever-changing plot. Michael Landon Jr and Cindy Kelley have created a strong cast of characters who are well portrayed and representative of their place in history. Realistic events, both descriptive and believable, reveal accurate and sometimes troubling actions as a result of Civil War issues. I highly recommend Traces of Mercy. This book was very difficult to put down, and I found myself reading until the wee hours of the morning to find out which direction the plot was headed. Don't miss this well-written book about the ravages of war, relationships, romance and intrigue!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Wynn-Wynn Media in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Traces of Mercy is written with remarkable originality and an ever-changing plot. Michael Landon Jr and Cindy Kelley have created a strong cast of characters who are well portrayed and representative of their place in history. Realistic events, both descriptive and believable, reveal accurate and sometimes troubling actions as a result of Civil War issues. I highly recommend Traces of Mercy. This book was very difficult to put down, and I found myself reading until the wee hours of the morning to find out which direction the plot was headed. Don't miss this well-written book about the ravages of war, relationships, romance and intrigue!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Wynn-Wynn Media in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
October 25, 2013
http://ceceliadowdy.com/blog/2013/10/...
When a young, beautiful woman awakens in a doctor's office, she's stunned and confused. Suffering from amnesia, she can't remember her name, where she's from, or what she looks like. She spends time with the kind doctor until he finds a home for her with a group of nuns. The nuns grant her the name Mercy because of the Mercy medallion she wears around her neck.
Although Mercy stays with the nuns, she wonders about her background. When she meets Rand Prescott, her life changes. However, how can she move forward with her life when she knows nothing about her past?
Rand is smitten with beautiful Mercy. Since she suffers from amnesia, he wonders if she's married, perhaps a family is around, searching for her.
Mercy gains knowledge of a deep, dark secret about herself. It's hard to accept this knowledge about her life....what will Rand think when he finds out the truth about her past?
I really enjoyed this book! It's a great historical novel and the unusual storyline really drew me in. I really wanted to see what happened to Mercy since she didn't know about her past. She writes in a journal, hoping that by doing so, it may be a catalyst to help her to remember her past. This journal turns out to be a major catalyst in the novel.
I also enjoyed reading about Mercy's time with the nuns. I've never known a nun personally. Everything I know about nuns is what's portrayed in books and movies.
Many thanks to publisher David C. Cook and NetGalley for providing me with a free review copy.
When a young, beautiful woman awakens in a doctor's office, she's stunned and confused. Suffering from amnesia, she can't remember her name, where she's from, or what she looks like. She spends time with the kind doctor until he finds a home for her with a group of nuns. The nuns grant her the name Mercy because of the Mercy medallion she wears around her neck.
Although Mercy stays with the nuns, she wonders about her background. When she meets Rand Prescott, her life changes. However, how can she move forward with her life when she knows nothing about her past?
Rand is smitten with beautiful Mercy. Since she suffers from amnesia, he wonders if she's married, perhaps a family is around, searching for her.
Mercy gains knowledge of a deep, dark secret about herself. It's hard to accept this knowledge about her life....what will Rand think when he finds out the truth about her past?
I really enjoyed this book! It's a great historical novel and the unusual storyline really drew me in. I really wanted to see what happened to Mercy since she didn't know about her past. She writes in a journal, hoping that by doing so, it may be a catalyst to help her to remember her past. This journal turns out to be a major catalyst in the novel.
I also enjoyed reading about Mercy's time with the nuns. I've never known a nun personally. Everything I know about nuns is what's portrayed in books and movies.
Many thanks to publisher David C. Cook and NetGalley for providing me with a free review copy.
October 7, 2013
Michael Landon Jr and Cindy Kelley have written a story that is full of faith, hope, and love. It was a pleasure to stay up late and read "just one more chapter." Now, here was a page-turner, a novel that just gives the reader good writing filled with distinctive characters.
The beginning of the novel, the end of the Civil War, was an unexpected surprise. I usually pride myself on figuring out what might happen next in a story. But I must say, Chapter One caught me off guard.
The character of Mercy, a woman with amnesia, wakes up to a world where she knows no one. She struggles to remember her past and lives her new life day to day. Will she discover a past full of sorrow and grief? or a husband and children?
Will there be love and hope in her future?
The authors have collaborated on a story that will definitely become a classic. I highly recommend it.
I received this free book for my honest review. You can find it also on
Amazon and DeeperShopping.
The beginning of the novel, the end of the Civil War, was an unexpected surprise. I usually pride myself on figuring out what might happen next in a story. But I must say, Chapter One caught me off guard.
The character of Mercy, a woman with amnesia, wakes up to a world where she knows no one. She struggles to remember her past and lives her new life day to day. Will she discover a past full of sorrow and grief? or a husband and children?
Will there be love and hope in her future?
The authors have collaborated on a story that will definitely become a classic. I highly recommend it.
I received this free book for my honest review. You can find it also on
Amazon and DeeperShopping.
August 25, 2015
Traces Of Mercy by Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley*****
It is the end of the Civil War when a young “man” is found and taken to the local doctor. While the doctor treats “him” he finds that “he” is a she. Which brings many questions to the doctor. When she wakes up in a doctor's office she learns that she is suffering from a bad accident and a wound in the leg from a gun shot. While talking with the doctor she finds that she does not know what happened nor does she know where she lives or even her own name. The doctor is intrigued as this is the first actual case of amnesia Dr. Abe Johnson has seen or treated. After a couple weeks and her memory still has not returned Dr. Johnson takes her to a nearby convent, the Little Sisters of Hope. His hope is that Mother Helena will take her in until she gets her memory back. While there Mother Helena gives her the name Mercy because of a silver medallion she was wearing. It seems that Mercy must learn how to dress as a lady-instead of dressing as a man would-as well as how to speak, act and do all the things a lady does.
Rand Prescott, a rich young eligible bachelor meets Mercy and is captivated by her. As time goes by they fall in love and plan to marry even though Mercy still can't remember who she is or where she came from. However, a chance meeting at her engagement party could change everything. It seems that Captain Elijah Hale may know Mercy which means that he could tell her about her past. But what will he tell her? Once she learns what Captain Hale knows about her, she panics as it is not what she expected but is terrible news. He threatens to tell Rand if she does not tell him herself. What will Rand do when he learns of her supposed past? Will he still love her, want to marry her or hate her and send her away? If not, what should she do, where should she go? So many unanswered questions.
I enjoy reading good clean fiction about the Civil War and Traces of Mercy is all that and a captivating story. Filled with faith, hope, love and forgiveness woven throughout, add romance, some history, mystery and characters that capture your heart for a fantastic story. From the beginning of the book there are unexpected twists and turns in the story which kept me up late reading to find out what is coming next. There are surprising discoveries along the way, some good and not so good. I was not expecting the ending, which left many unanswered questions. I certainly hope there will be another book to tie up the questions. An excellent read.
~~~I received this book from bookfun.org and David C. Cook in return for my honest opinion~~~
~~Posted review on Bookfun.org, DeeperShopping.com, Goodreads.com, BarnsandNoble.com, Christianbook.com, Family Christian.com and Amazon.com~~
It is the end of the Civil War when a young “man” is found and taken to the local doctor. While the doctor treats “him” he finds that “he” is a she. Which brings many questions to the doctor. When she wakes up in a doctor's office she learns that she is suffering from a bad accident and a wound in the leg from a gun shot. While talking with the doctor she finds that she does not know what happened nor does she know where she lives or even her own name. The doctor is intrigued as this is the first actual case of amnesia Dr. Abe Johnson has seen or treated. After a couple weeks and her memory still has not returned Dr. Johnson takes her to a nearby convent, the Little Sisters of Hope. His hope is that Mother Helena will take her in until she gets her memory back. While there Mother Helena gives her the name Mercy because of a silver medallion she was wearing. It seems that Mercy must learn how to dress as a lady-instead of dressing as a man would-as well as how to speak, act and do all the things a lady does.
Rand Prescott, a rich young eligible bachelor meets Mercy and is captivated by her. As time goes by they fall in love and plan to marry even though Mercy still can't remember who she is or where she came from. However, a chance meeting at her engagement party could change everything. It seems that Captain Elijah Hale may know Mercy which means that he could tell her about her past. But what will he tell her? Once she learns what Captain Hale knows about her, she panics as it is not what she expected but is terrible news. He threatens to tell Rand if she does not tell him herself. What will Rand do when he learns of her supposed past? Will he still love her, want to marry her or hate her and send her away? If not, what should she do, where should she go? So many unanswered questions.
I enjoy reading good clean fiction about the Civil War and Traces of Mercy is all that and a captivating story. Filled with faith, hope, love and forgiveness woven throughout, add romance, some history, mystery and characters that capture your heart for a fantastic story. From the beginning of the book there are unexpected twists and turns in the story which kept me up late reading to find out what is coming next. There are surprising discoveries along the way, some good and not so good. I was not expecting the ending, which left many unanswered questions. I certainly hope there will be another book to tie up the questions. An excellent read.
~~~I received this book from bookfun.org and David C. Cook in return for my honest opinion~~~
~~Posted review on Bookfun.org, DeeperShopping.com, Goodreads.com, BarnsandNoble.com, Christianbook.com, Family Christian.com and Amazon.com~~
September 26, 2013
Traces of Mercy by Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley is a historical novel set during the Reconstruction Era of the United States. The story quickly opens with a battle in which a Confederate sharp-shooter dispatches his targets with great accuracy. He follows a Union officer, who carries away a mortally wounded soldier. We discover the officer is the infantryman's older brother. As the young man dies, the assassin, as he is wont to call himself, tries but fails to kill the officer. His first failure. Before leaving, the officer takes a religious mercy medallion off his neck and places it on the rifle bayonet of the shooter, then rides away.
We next find the Confederate soldier knocked unconscious, only to awaken to find himself on a wagon headed for Gratiot Prison in St. Louis. Upon arrival, it is announced that the war is over. During the melee, the soldier is injured and taken to a local doctor. It is here where the story takes over. We discover our soldier is, in fact, a young woman. Not only that, she has a classic case of amnesia. She cannot remember anything from her past the moment she opened her eyes in the doctor's office.
The good doctor, with all propriety in mind, cannot have a young lady living with him, decides to take her to the next place in town best suited for her situation. Yes, you guessed right, a convent. There the Mother Superior names her Mercy for the medallion she wears. And there is where our story starts to lose mercy.
Opening with great pace, I had high hopes for the book. I sped through the first 100 pages. With the arrival of the main character at the convent, I started losing empathy with her. Feisty. Great! Selfish. Not so great. The story line. Your typical lost girl meets richest single man in town, man falls in love.... You can go from there. The story tends to drag during long patches. The end. Well, there's a twist of sorts. There is no end. What started as a novel, ended as a prequel. A prequel to what, I'm not sure. As for me, I don't think I'll continue with the saga. The characters didn't engage me enough to want to know what happens. I think I developed amnesia reading this book.
We next find the Confederate soldier knocked unconscious, only to awaken to find himself on a wagon headed for Gratiot Prison in St. Louis. Upon arrival, it is announced that the war is over. During the melee, the soldier is injured and taken to a local doctor. It is here where the story takes over. We discover our soldier is, in fact, a young woman. Not only that, she has a classic case of amnesia. She cannot remember anything from her past the moment she opened her eyes in the doctor's office.
The good doctor, with all propriety in mind, cannot have a young lady living with him, decides to take her to the next place in town best suited for her situation. Yes, you guessed right, a convent. There the Mother Superior names her Mercy for the medallion she wears. And there is where our story starts to lose mercy.
Opening with great pace, I had high hopes for the book. I sped through the first 100 pages. With the arrival of the main character at the convent, I started losing empathy with her. Feisty. Great! Selfish. Not so great. The story line. Your typical lost girl meets richest single man in town, man falls in love.... You can go from there. The story tends to drag during long patches. The end. Well, there's a twist of sorts. There is no end. What started as a novel, ended as a prequel. A prequel to what, I'm not sure. As for me, I don't think I'll continue with the saga. The characters didn't engage me enough to want to know what happens. I think I developed amnesia reading this book.
October 20, 2013
I had the privilege of reading Traces of Mercy by Michael Landon, Jr. and Cindy Kelley. I was super excited to read this book as I absolutely love the Love Comes Softly movie series (just watched it again yesterday in marathon form) and grew up on Little House on the Prairie wanting Charles Ingalls as my dad. I know that Mr. Landon’s son is his own person, but it’s comforting to know that his life’s mission is to make films that are family friendly and hold true to the values I live my life by. It was exciting to me to see what book he had written and have the privilege to read it.
I absolutely loved the book. It had suspense and twists and turns but such a deep faith woven throughout, I found myself welling up, wishing I was getting a great big hug from Mother Helena myself. I want to strive to be Mother Helena, in the way that she extends grace, ministers consequences (with grace) and just is such a great role model of living a Christ follower’s life.
I love how the book ended…leaving plenty of room and unanswered questions for what is to come while still leaving me satisfied. I loved the depth of the characters and I absolutely loved how they wove so much into the pages. I didn’t want to stop reading and I absolutely fell in love with both Elijah and Rand. They were men from two different worlds but both had a strong faith and deep respect for women and their country. What’s not to love?
Thank you for this opportunity and privilege to be introduced to Michael Landon, Jr. and Cindy Kelley as authors. I’m a loyal fan now and can’t wait to read whatever else they want to write.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion.
I absolutely loved the book. It had suspense and twists and turns but such a deep faith woven throughout, I found myself welling up, wishing I was getting a great big hug from Mother Helena myself. I want to strive to be Mother Helena, in the way that she extends grace, ministers consequences (with grace) and just is such a great role model of living a Christ follower’s life.
I love how the book ended…leaving plenty of room and unanswered questions for what is to come while still leaving me satisfied. I loved the depth of the characters and I absolutely loved how they wove so much into the pages. I didn’t want to stop reading and I absolutely fell in love with both Elijah and Rand. They were men from two different worlds but both had a strong faith and deep respect for women and their country. What’s not to love?
Thank you for this opportunity and privilege to be introduced to Michael Landon, Jr. and Cindy Kelley as authors. I’m a loyal fan now and can’t wait to read whatever else they want to write.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 10, 2017
Traces of Mercy opens April 1865 in Tennessee near the end of the American Civil War. We meet a Confederate sniper with a stellar record who refuses to shoot his Union foe tending to his brother during the final moments of his life. He gives the sniper a Mercy Medallion in gratitude. The sniper is subsequently injured, he loses his memory, the war ends and we learn the sniper is female they name Mercy because of the medallion.
As events unfold we meet a convent of Catholic Irish nuns who take care for Mercy. Mercy falls in love with a Union officer in St. Louis, Missouri whose family are railroad developers. They discover she is a Confederate sniper though her amnesia remains and their impending marriage is cancelled. Determined to re-establish her relationship, however, she attempts a criminal act and is captured. She escapes a conviction of treason and subsequent hanging and the book concludes with her on her own determined to solve the mystery of her identity.
The story is told in a series of first-person journal entries Mercy pens that shed insight into her character and the dilemma her amnesia causes; third-person POV unfold the plot.
A suspenseful tale with layered characters, the last line will compel readers to pick up the next book in order to discover what happens to Mercy.
In particular, I favored many of the quotes for the reflection prompted and the timelessness of the tale thus forth created. For example, "Quiet can be very loud."
Marianne Perry
Writing inspired by genealogical research to solve family mysteries.
www.marianneperry.ca
As events unfold we meet a convent of Catholic Irish nuns who take care for Mercy. Mercy falls in love with a Union officer in St. Louis, Missouri whose family are railroad developers. They discover she is a Confederate sniper though her amnesia remains and their impending marriage is cancelled. Determined to re-establish her relationship, however, she attempts a criminal act and is captured. She escapes a conviction of treason and subsequent hanging and the book concludes with her on her own determined to solve the mystery of her identity.
The story is told in a series of first-person journal entries Mercy pens that shed insight into her character and the dilemma her amnesia causes; third-person POV unfold the plot.
A suspenseful tale with layered characters, the last line will compel readers to pick up the next book in order to discover what happens to Mercy.
In particular, I favored many of the quotes for the reflection prompted and the timelessness of the tale thus forth created. For example, "Quiet can be very loud."
Marianne Perry
Writing inspired by genealogical research to solve family mysteries.
www.marianneperry.ca
October 10, 2013
I was caught on page one and didn't want to put it down. I have found a great writing team with Michael Landon Jr & Cindy Kelley. Yes this is the Michael Landon's son. He is as talented as his dad. This book starts on the day that General Lee surrenders to General Sherman. Mercy wakes up in a doctor's office, injured and no memories of her life. The doctor takes her to the abbey for the Nuns to help her. They name her Mercy from the medallion that she is wearing. Mercy makes new friends, becomes engaged, doesn't know what to do when a stranger says he knows some things about her. She's not sure whether she wants to know what he does or not. This secret could destroy everything she has done in her new life.
I'm so glad that there is going to be more to this series. I read this one afternoon and finished the next morning. I didn't want it end. There is love, faith, friendships, struggles, trying to find oneself. I hope you will read this and be entranced as I was. I have definitely added these two authors to my favorite's list.
I received this book through Book Club Network to read and give my unbiased opinion. Definite 5 stars. Would give it more but there wasn't a place.
I'm so glad that there is going to be more to this series. I read this one afternoon and finished the next morning. I didn't want it end. There is love, faith, friendships, struggles, trying to find oneself. I hope you will read this and be entranced as I was. I have definitely added these two authors to my favorite's list.
I received this book through Book Club Network to read and give my unbiased opinion. Definite 5 stars. Would give it more but there wasn't a place.
July 9, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It was an interesting and refreshing change of pace. The idea of a female sniper during the civil war is very unique. One thing that I really love in a good book is when I feel emotionally connected to the outcome for the main characters. It is clear that this is just the beginning of this story as it does leave you on the edge. I look forward to the next installment of the story.
August 18, 2013
I am so excited that I have found another great series! Loved the strong female protagonist and the men who tried to save her. I flew through this book last night, it's so fast-paced. Can't wait to read the next one.
August 15, 2013
I have to wait a whole year for book 2 in this new series!
June 4, 2024
Traces of Mercy was a great read. I was surprised by how much I was pulled into the story and didn't want to stop reading. I love amnesia stories and so I loved that aspect.
I felt for the characters. The romance story was okay, but not a favorite. I didn't like the way he acted towards the end. I get being hurt, but he seemed cruel.
I didn't expect the cliffhanger ending and so I'm looking forward to reading the next (and final??) book soon.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I felt for the characters. The romance story was okay, but not a favorite. I didn't like the way he acted towards the end. I get being hurt, but he seemed cruel.
I didn't expect the cliffhanger ending and so I'm looking forward to reading the next (and final??) book soon.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
November 5, 2020
***4.5 stars***
First, I thought this cover was so beautiful! I have loved many of Michael Landon Jr.'s movies so it was a treat to be able to read one of his books. I definitely wasn't disappointed! I felt like the story was a little slow in the beginning, but once it picked up it was hard to put down! Mercy was far from a cookie-cutter heroine. She definitely made some mistakes, but I think she learned from them and had to learn to accept mercy from God and others as well as give it to others who might have wronged her. The theme of mercy and forgiveness was interwoven throughout the book with several characters extending or receiving these gifts.
I must warn people that this book does end with a lot of unanswered questions, but I'm looking forward to reading the next one and finding out what happens!
First, I thought this cover was so beautiful! I have loved many of Michael Landon Jr.'s movies so it was a treat to be able to read one of his books. I definitely wasn't disappointed! I felt like the story was a little slow in the beginning, but once it picked up it was hard to put down! Mercy was far from a cookie-cutter heroine. She definitely made some mistakes, but I think she learned from them and had to learn to accept mercy from God and others as well as give it to others who might have wronged her. The theme of mercy and forgiveness was interwoven throughout the book with several characters extending or receiving these gifts.
I must warn people that this book does end with a lot of unanswered questions, but I'm looking forward to reading the next one and finding out what happens!
October 28, 2024
It's been a bit since I've read a book that was hard to put down and made me eager to jump right into the next one. While it was slower going at the beginning, it sucked me in after a while. You can tell these two are also good at writing screenplays; the story telling is unpredictable and compelling.
July 13, 2018
It's been a long time since i read a book that i couldn't wait to get back to. This is a beautiful story about a young woman with in post civil war days who finds herself without any memory of her past life. I'm hoping to get started on on the next book in the series soon! Thank you Michael Landon Jr!
July 23, 2014
Mercy’s story grabbed me from the very beginning. Why would a woman dress as a man to fight in the civil war? What would drive a person to hate the Union so deeply that when she missed her 115th target, she would actually go chase him down intending to finish the job? And what is the precaution of her sparing the life of that captain she followed in order to kill?
The story (from chapter 2) starts with a young woman waking up in a local clinic outside of St. Louis. She’s coherent, and seems to ask the right kind of questions, but when asked by the doctor who she is and where she came from, can’t answer to save her life. Waking up not knowing who you are is scary enough. Waking up in a place where no one recognizes you means there is no place for her. The doctor helps her find a home with a group of Irish nuns, they named her Mercy because of the medallion she wears, and through a number of events, she meets a handsome young man. Their story is a love at first sight. But might Mercy’s past, more strictly, a very handsome, rugged captain, put everything in jeopardy? (To avoid spoiler, I will leave the rest of the story to your personal enjoyment.)
Now on to the writing. Personally, it matter to me at least 50% how well something is written. A story can be intriguing, but if it is poorly written, the book is ruined.
At first, I had this fear with this book. The first chapter was written so awkwardly, the situation sometimes so forced, I found myself getting a little annoyed.
There was lot a choppiness to it, a lot of repetition of the noun and pronoun that made reading it as a novel hard. For example, the same words “the sniper” were repeated in every paragraph unnecessarily.
But as I continued into the second chapter, everything started to flow more smoothly. I realized that the book is written rather uniquely. It’s written in the style of a script. Unlike a novel, there is minimum description, a lot of action and dialogue. The choppiness requires me to shoot the scene in my head as I read, acting it out rather than depending on the words. It took some getting used to, but once it was established, the book went very quickly and engagingly for me. Around chapter 7, the book starts to read more like a novel.
Overall, the story goes in a very nice pace, almost each chapter starting with Mercy’s journal entry that offers a sneak peek into her life and her thoughts. And it is nice that this book was from several different point of views. There have been some laugh out loud moments, and you can really fall in love with all of the characters.
I enjoyed this book a lot! But beware, this is one of those cliffhanger books. We are left with unanswered questions about Mercy and her future, and will have to wait, as patiently as we can, for the installment of this trilogy to publish.
On a final note: If you are holding back because this book is labeled under Christian, you don’t have to worry. This isn’t so much a christian novel as a combination of Literary Fiction and Romance. As you wouldn’t classify The Sound of Music as a religious film, this book shouldn’t be classified as a religious book.
*ARC provided by Netgalley
The story (from chapter 2) starts with a young woman waking up in a local clinic outside of St. Louis. She’s coherent, and seems to ask the right kind of questions, but when asked by the doctor who she is and where she came from, can’t answer to save her life. Waking up not knowing who you are is scary enough. Waking up in a place where no one recognizes you means there is no place for her. The doctor helps her find a home with a group of Irish nuns, they named her Mercy because of the medallion she wears, and through a number of events, she meets a handsome young man. Their story is a love at first sight. But might Mercy’s past, more strictly, a very handsome, rugged captain, put everything in jeopardy? (To avoid spoiler, I will leave the rest of the story to your personal enjoyment.)
Now on to the writing. Personally, it matter to me at least 50% how well something is written. A story can be intriguing, but if it is poorly written, the book is ruined.
At first, I had this fear with this book. The first chapter was written so awkwardly, the situation sometimes so forced, I found myself getting a little annoyed.
There was lot a choppiness to it, a lot of repetition of the noun and pronoun that made reading it as a novel hard. For example, the same words “the sniper” were repeated in every paragraph unnecessarily.
But as I continued into the second chapter, everything started to flow more smoothly. I realized that the book is written rather uniquely. It’s written in the style of a script. Unlike a novel, there is minimum description, a lot of action and dialogue. The choppiness requires me to shoot the scene in my head as I read, acting it out rather than depending on the words. It took some getting used to, but once it was established, the book went very quickly and engagingly for me. Around chapter 7, the book starts to read more like a novel.
Overall, the story goes in a very nice pace, almost each chapter starting with Mercy’s journal entry that offers a sneak peek into her life and her thoughts. And it is nice that this book was from several different point of views. There have been some laugh out loud moments, and you can really fall in love with all of the characters.
I enjoyed this book a lot! But beware, this is one of those cliffhanger books. We are left with unanswered questions about Mercy and her future, and will have to wait, as patiently as we can, for the installment of this trilogy to publish.
On a final note: If you are holding back because this book is labeled under Christian, you don’t have to worry. This isn’t so much a christian novel as a combination of Literary Fiction and Romance. As you wouldn’t classify The Sound of Music as a religious film, this book shouldn’t be classified as a religious book.
*ARC provided by Netgalley
October 4, 2013
This story brings us well developed characters with strong emotions and vivid descriptions that will transport the reader into the story. Lots of twists and turns that with each page turned the reader will become more invested in the storyline. This story is about Mercy a young woman who as the result of an injury has amnesia, which very little was known in the 1800's. After weeks of recovery from her physical wounds and having no place to go, the doctor takes her to Sister Helena at Little Sisters of Hope where a group of nuns live. Sister Helena knows that she needs and name and gives her one for the medallion around her neck. Mercy is haunted by the fact she has no memories, therefore, she knows nothing about her past or what she has left behind. She knows she is more comfortable in trousers than a dress, doesn't like sewing, and is good with animals.
Rand is considered one of the most eligible bachelors in St. Louis due to coming from a wealthy family and his social connections. His father, a railroad owner, was instrumental in several defeats of the confederates during the war. One day while on a picnic, he spies a trespasser in one of their ponds who turns out to be Mercy. Knowing a misunderstanding on his part occurred during this meeting, he goes to the nuns house to apologize to Mercy. He becomes intrigued by her and finds ways to immerse himself in helping the sisters, there by spending more time with Mercy.
Mercy develops feelings for Rand and tries to fight them because she continually questions who she is and how she has ended up to be here. Rand loves Mercy and wants to marry her, but knows this is a difficult step for her. He vows to help her in any way he can.
Elijah was a Union officer during the war and has been visiting with friends in St. Louis. A few months back, during a battle in Tennessee his brother was shot and while tending his wounds a confederate soldier came upon them. Instead of taking the "kill shot", the soldier lets his allows him to live and be with his brother during his final moments. This is a moment he will never forget. At an engagement party, he thinks he recognizes Mercy and after hearing her story becomes intrigued. After investigating all he had heard of Mercy, he confronts her with his conclusions. Mercy is devastated. Even though she has no memory of what she has heard, in her heart she knows it's true. Elijah tells her she must tell Rand of her past and if she doesn't he will. He knows that with the end of the war, attitudes had not changed and that Mercy needs to understand that if her memories return she has no way of knowing how she will feel about Rand.
Mercy knows, with how Rand feels about the confederacy, she doesn't want to see the look on his face when he finds out her past. Is there any way she can still have her happy ending?
Rand is considered one of the most eligible bachelors in St. Louis due to coming from a wealthy family and his social connections. His father, a railroad owner, was instrumental in several defeats of the confederates during the war. One day while on a picnic, he spies a trespasser in one of their ponds who turns out to be Mercy. Knowing a misunderstanding on his part occurred during this meeting, he goes to the nuns house to apologize to Mercy. He becomes intrigued by her and finds ways to immerse himself in helping the sisters, there by spending more time with Mercy.
Mercy develops feelings for Rand and tries to fight them because she continually questions who she is and how she has ended up to be here. Rand loves Mercy and wants to marry her, but knows this is a difficult step for her. He vows to help her in any way he can.
Elijah was a Union officer during the war and has been visiting with friends in St. Louis. A few months back, during a battle in Tennessee his brother was shot and while tending his wounds a confederate soldier came upon them. Instead of taking the "kill shot", the soldier lets his allows him to live and be with his brother during his final moments. This is a moment he will never forget. At an engagement party, he thinks he recognizes Mercy and after hearing her story becomes intrigued. After investigating all he had heard of Mercy, he confronts her with his conclusions. Mercy is devastated. Even though she has no memory of what she has heard, in her heart she knows it's true. Elijah tells her she must tell Rand of her past and if she doesn't he will. He knows that with the end of the war, attitudes had not changed and that Mercy needs to understand that if her memories return she has no way of knowing how she will feel about Rand.
Mercy knows, with how Rand feels about the confederacy, she doesn't want to see the look on his face when he finds out her past. Is there any way she can still have her happy ending?
October 30, 2013
I won this book in a First Reads giveaway, thank you to the authors/publisher for my free copy.
3 1/2 stars
The civil war is over. People everywhere are trying to rebuild their lives. This proves more difficult for some than others. For in order to rebuild your life you need to know who you are, where you've been and where you are going. And those are questions that one young woman, Mercy, just cant answer...
'Traces Of Mercy' is a story of a young woman endeavoring to claim her life back after an accident erases all traces of her memory. All she knows is that she knows nothing.
Should she put her life on hold until her memory returns or put the past behind her and start again? A new name, a new love, a new future...
I'm a little torn with this one...
The beginning is exciting and very "un-put-down-able", the book really sucks you in and I love that in a story. Also, nothing is predictable, many things surprised me; again, that's a good thing.
Once Mercy moves into the nun's orphanage things kind of slow down and I got a little bored, not mindnumbingly bored, I still kept reading, but it wasn't holding my fascination like the beginning did.The nuns did their little bit of sermonizing (which I suppose was to be expected~ but there was no "instant conversion" which I really hate in a book so I carried on and I'm glad I did).
At this point we are introduced to the handsome hero. Handsome UNION hero. Mercy is SOUTHERN. Even so, things seem a little TOO perfect and I was beginning to yawn...UNTIL...enter SECOND Union hero. Who recognizes someone...
This book would have been 4 star but the ending left me wanting more answers. To my knowledge there is no sequel and I wanted at least an epilogue to see what happens but the reader is left suspended. I'm not a fan of that. I don't have to have everything wrapped up in a bow but I do like a bit more closure. So that would have been nice.
However, I DO LIKE that this book has unexpected twists and turns and that the characters are real with real issues , hatreds and imperfections.
Great storytelling! I would definitely read more from these authors.
* I just read on another person's review that this is the first of a trilogy so I'm sure more answers are discovered as the books carry on. I'm tempted to raise my rating to 4 but knowing there's a sequel doesn't change the fact that this one ended rather disappointingly. After all, I don't have the second book, do I? I have the first book. Providing I have the money and I find the other books in the series I will definitely want to carry on with the story.
CONTENT:
Sex: None
Violence: some wartime shooting, nothing descriptive
Language: None
Preachiness: a little (a few of the characters are nuns)
My rating: G
3 1/2 stars
The civil war is over. People everywhere are trying to rebuild their lives. This proves more difficult for some than others. For in order to rebuild your life you need to know who you are, where you've been and where you are going. And those are questions that one young woman, Mercy, just cant answer...
'Traces Of Mercy' is a story of a young woman endeavoring to claim her life back after an accident erases all traces of her memory. All she knows is that she knows nothing.
Should she put her life on hold until her memory returns or put the past behind her and start again? A new name, a new love, a new future...
I'm a little torn with this one...
The beginning is exciting and very "un-put-down-able", the book really sucks you in and I love that in a story. Also, nothing is predictable, many things surprised me; again, that's a good thing.
Once Mercy moves into the nun's orphanage things kind of slow down and I got a little bored, not mindnumbingly bored, I still kept reading, but it wasn't holding my fascination like the beginning did.The nuns did their little bit of sermonizing (which I suppose was to be expected~ but there was no "instant conversion" which I really hate in a book so I carried on and I'm glad I did).
At this point we are introduced to the handsome hero. Handsome UNION hero. Mercy is SOUTHERN. Even so, things seem a little TOO perfect and I was beginning to yawn...UNTIL...enter SECOND Union hero. Who recognizes someone...
This book would have been 4 star but the ending left me wanting more answers. To my knowledge there is no sequel and I wanted at least an epilogue to see what happens but the reader is left suspended. I'm not a fan of that. I don't have to have everything wrapped up in a bow but I do like a bit more closure. So that would have been nice.
However, I DO LIKE that this book has unexpected twists and turns and that the characters are real with real issues , hatreds and imperfections.
Great storytelling! I would definitely read more from these authors.
* I just read on another person's review that this is the first of a trilogy so I'm sure more answers are discovered as the books carry on. I'm tempted to raise my rating to 4 but knowing there's a sequel doesn't change the fact that this one ended rather disappointingly. After all, I don't have the second book, do I? I have the first book. Providing I have the money and I find the other books in the series I will definitely want to carry on with the story.
CONTENT:
Sex: None
Violence: some wartime shooting, nothing descriptive
Language: None
Preachiness: a little (a few of the characters are nuns)
My rating: G
September 12, 2013
This is an absolutely incredible Christian fiction novel!
At the very end of the Civil War a young woman suffers an accident that leaves her unconscious and alone. When she awakes she has no memory of who she is so she takes the name Mercy for the mercy medallion found around her neck. She’s left having to decide if it is more important to discover her past or to forge a future for herself.
This is a very brief description of the basic storyline. The authors have done a fantastic job of developing the characters and delving into the confusion that comes from having amnesia as shown in this brief excerpt from when she first wakes up.
“Let’s start with the very basics. What’s your name?”
She automatically opened her mouth to reply with the answer. Surely she knew her own name. But trying to retrieve the memory in the deep, black chasm of her mind was like trying to catch the wind. There was nothing. Not a shred of anything to grasp and unfurl like a sheet where all the minutes, hours, days, and years leading up to this moment might be hiding. With frightened, heart-pumping adrenaline, she whispered her answer.
“I don’t remember.”
I was very fascinated to see where they took the story and how they had Mercy, as well as the people that entered her life, at this trying time deal with this troubling condition.
I don’t know if the next book in this series is going to continue with Mercy’s story or if it will be a completely different group of characters. I do know that either way I am looking forward to the day that it will be released. Michael Landon, Jr. and Cindy Kelley are a wonderful writing team. I will be looking for their other books. I highly recommend this book.
I received a free Advanced Reading Copy of this book through a Goodreads, First Reads giveaway for my honest opinion.
Excerpt used with permission. Copyright © 2013 David C Cook. Traces of Mercy by Michael Landon Jr and Cindy Kelley.
At the very end of the Civil War a young woman suffers an accident that leaves her unconscious and alone. When she awakes she has no memory of who she is so she takes the name Mercy for the mercy medallion found around her neck. She’s left having to decide if it is more important to discover her past or to forge a future for herself.
This is a very brief description of the basic storyline. The authors have done a fantastic job of developing the characters and delving into the confusion that comes from having amnesia as shown in this brief excerpt from when she first wakes up.
“Let’s start with the very basics. What’s your name?”
She automatically opened her mouth to reply with the answer. Surely she knew her own name. But trying to retrieve the memory in the deep, black chasm of her mind was like trying to catch the wind. There was nothing. Not a shred of anything to grasp and unfurl like a sheet where all the minutes, hours, days, and years leading up to this moment might be hiding. With frightened, heart-pumping adrenaline, she whispered her answer.
“I don’t remember.”
I was very fascinated to see where they took the story and how they had Mercy, as well as the people that entered her life, at this trying time deal with this troubling condition.
I don’t know if the next book in this series is going to continue with Mercy’s story or if it will be a completely different group of characters. I do know that either way I am looking forward to the day that it will be released. Michael Landon, Jr. and Cindy Kelley are a wonderful writing team. I will be looking for their other books. I highly recommend this book.
I received a free Advanced Reading Copy of this book through a Goodreads, First Reads giveaway for my honest opinion.
Excerpt used with permission. Copyright © 2013 David C Cook. Traces of Mercy by Michael Landon Jr and Cindy Kelley.
September 15, 2013
Traces of Mercy is the first book in the Mercy Medallion Trilogy. I found this book to be an enjoyable read. The book grabs you right from the start. It is part mystery, clean romance and historical fiction.
This book has some subtle Christian overtones to it (it has been classified as part of the Christian genre) but is a story that non-Christians will still enjoy. It is by no means a “religious” novel.
Mercy seems to be a sweet young woman who wouldn’t knowingly hurt anyone, and who doesn’t know anything about her past. However, we are aware that she was a sniper for the confederate army, but she does not discover this until later in the book. Why she was a sniper remains a mystery. The character with amnesia we see being developed does not seem like the kind of person that would kill over a hundred people as a sniper. I was very surprised that she was contemplating (and almost carried out) a murder. It isn’t very clear the reasons why she attempts this crime other than to say that she needed to complete her mission. The only problem with that is, she does not actually remember being a sniper but because she was told she was one. The personality change after she is told this portion of her past is confusing, as she almost seems to have two different personalities. I think in part it is because of the amnesia, and the person she was before the amnesia may very well be very different from the person she became after the amnesia.
We don’t find out who Mercy is by the end of the novel, and to top it off, she had disappeared from her companions….the perfect starting place for the sequel.
I am looking forward to the second book in this series. I gave the book 3 stars.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. A free product does not influence my review. All thoughts are my own.
This book has some subtle Christian overtones to it (it has been classified as part of the Christian genre) but is a story that non-Christians will still enjoy. It is by no means a “religious” novel.
Mercy seems to be a sweet young woman who wouldn’t knowingly hurt anyone, and who doesn’t know anything about her past. However, we are aware that she was a sniper for the confederate army, but she does not discover this until later in the book. Why she was a sniper remains a mystery. The character with amnesia we see being developed does not seem like the kind of person that would kill over a hundred people as a sniper. I was very surprised that she was contemplating (and almost carried out) a murder. It isn’t very clear the reasons why she attempts this crime other than to say that she needed to complete her mission. The only problem with that is, she does not actually remember being a sniper but because she was told she was one. The personality change after she is told this portion of her past is confusing, as she almost seems to have two different personalities. I think in part it is because of the amnesia, and the person she was before the amnesia may very well be very different from the person she became after the amnesia.
We don’t find out who Mercy is by the end of the novel, and to top it off, she had disappeared from her companions….the perfect starting place for the sequel.
I am looking forward to the second book in this series. I gave the book 3 stars.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. A free product does not influence my review. All thoughts are my own.
October 24, 2013
In this suspenseful historical novel, it’s April 1865 during the Civil War and we have a Confederate sniper, a Union officer, a wounded woman who has amnesia who ends up living in a convent, Little Sisters of Hope, with Mother Helena trying to help her find out who she is. Since she has no memory of what her name is, she comes up with Mercy.
Mercy is obviously upset about her memory loss and Mother Helena gives her a journal to start writing down her thoughts and things she is doing now, so she will have them as memories and maybe one day something will spark her memory. Mercy writes in her journal almost nightly. She writes down things that happen and things she discovers that she knows or is good at. One thing she is good at is horses. The horse that the sisters bought before Mercy came was always giving them trouble, but then Mercy stepped in and the horse immediately calmed down. She even discovered she was a good shot, when after she met Rand Prescott, a local wealthy young man, he brings her to his home for a party. The men were going on a hunt and Rand knew she loved to ride, so he gives her a gun to teach her to shoot. Let’s just say she didn’t need lessons!
This is a wonderful novel full of mystery, and ups and downs for Mercy. Trying to discover who she is and afraid of finding out all at the same time. I totally enjoyed reading this book and I can’t wait until the second book in this series comes out! This is a great novel for those who like history, romance, and suspense and mystery!
I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley for my honest opinion and did not receive any compensation for a favorable review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Mercy is obviously upset about her memory loss and Mother Helena gives her a journal to start writing down her thoughts and things she is doing now, so she will have them as memories and maybe one day something will spark her memory. Mercy writes in her journal almost nightly. She writes down things that happen and things she discovers that she knows or is good at. One thing she is good at is horses. The horse that the sisters bought before Mercy came was always giving them trouble, but then Mercy stepped in and the horse immediately calmed down. She even discovered she was a good shot, when after she met Rand Prescott, a local wealthy young man, he brings her to his home for a party. The men were going on a hunt and Rand knew she loved to ride, so he gives her a gun to teach her to shoot. Let’s just say she didn’t need lessons!
This is a wonderful novel full of mystery, and ups and downs for Mercy. Trying to discover who she is and afraid of finding out all at the same time. I totally enjoyed reading this book and I can’t wait until the second book in this series comes out! This is a great novel for those who like history, romance, and suspense and mystery!
I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley for my honest opinion and did not receive any compensation for a favorable review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
September 21, 2013
Orginal review found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advanced readers copy of this book through a goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Historical fiction has always been and still remains one of my favorite genres and the fact that this book takes place at the end of the Civil War got me excited.
This book takes off running from the very first page describing a battle nearing the end of the Civil War. In the very next chapter we are introduced to a woman who is found with injuries and doesn't remember who she is but the readers do (sort of). Without going into too much detail or giving any of the story away the rest of the book is about this woman, Mercy, as she struggles to move on without a past. We are then introduced to Rand who becomes her love interest and the struggles they have when a person from her past turns up and complicated their lives.
I enjoyed this story more than I thought I would. The entire way through it I was wanting to know Mercy's story from before we were introduced to her. Sadly this does not happen in this book so I guess I am going to have to read the next book in the series when it is released to find out. The romance of Mercy and Rand is a big part of this book but unfortunately I didn't feel it as much as I hoped too. I found that the romance of the characters were a little underdeveloped to be believable. Perhaps that explains why I was not at all disappointed in the events that happen between them.
Short chapters made it easy to get through this book quickly and at the end of the day I really enjoyed it. I will have to keep my eyes open for the next book because I really want to know the back story on Mercy and what becomes of her.
I received an advanced readers copy of this book through a goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Historical fiction has always been and still remains one of my favorite genres and the fact that this book takes place at the end of the Civil War got me excited.
This book takes off running from the very first page describing a battle nearing the end of the Civil War. In the very next chapter we are introduced to a woman who is found with injuries and doesn't remember who she is but the readers do (sort of). Without going into too much detail or giving any of the story away the rest of the book is about this woman, Mercy, as she struggles to move on without a past. We are then introduced to Rand who becomes her love interest and the struggles they have when a person from her past turns up and complicated their lives.
I enjoyed this story more than I thought I would. The entire way through it I was wanting to know Mercy's story from before we were introduced to her. Sadly this does not happen in this book so I guess I am going to have to read the next book in the series when it is released to find out. The romance of Mercy and Rand is a big part of this book but unfortunately I didn't feel it as much as I hoped too. I found that the romance of the characters were a little underdeveloped to be believable. Perhaps that explains why I was not at all disappointed in the events that happen between them.
Short chapters made it easy to get through this book quickly and at the end of the day I really enjoyed it. I will have to keep my eyes open for the next book because I really want to know the back story on Mercy and what becomes of her.
October 4, 2013
From Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley, authors of The Silent Gift and creators of the hit television film Love Comes Softly, comes an exciting historical romance set in post-Civil War, and filled with suspense and faith-building values.
At the war’s end, a young woman suffers an accident that leaves her unconscious and alone. Waking with amnesia, she takes the name Mercy and wants more than anything to find out the truth of her past. But then a handsome stranger arrives, who may hold the key to everything she has forgotten. What he knows could devastate her future, and even end her life.
Written by two proven storytellers, Traces of Mercy is perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, prairie-based tales, or just a good romance.
My Review:
The mysterious circumstances surrounding Mercy's past made for an excellent story. Found bloodied and wearing men's clothing, she has no idea who she is, where she's going, or who she knows. She is a sweet young woman, with a wonderful disposition and good heart. My fascination just grew when it was revealed what she used to do for a living - so completely opposite of the kind of woman she is when she wakes up.
While I found that the story flowed smoothly after a while, the first seven chapters were all action and minimal description. I actually enjoyed this because I have been known to fall asleep reading wordy descriptions and ultimately, that discourages me from reading the rest of the book. This novel is part mystery, part romance, and part historical fiction. The novel ended with some more mysterious disappearing and definitely left me wanting more!
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
At the war’s end, a young woman suffers an accident that leaves her unconscious and alone. Waking with amnesia, she takes the name Mercy and wants more than anything to find out the truth of her past. But then a handsome stranger arrives, who may hold the key to everything she has forgotten. What he knows could devastate her future, and even end her life.
Written by two proven storytellers, Traces of Mercy is perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, prairie-based tales, or just a good romance.
My Review:
The mysterious circumstances surrounding Mercy's past made for an excellent story. Found bloodied and wearing men's clothing, she has no idea who she is, where she's going, or who she knows. She is a sweet young woman, with a wonderful disposition and good heart. My fascination just grew when it was revealed what she used to do for a living - so completely opposite of the kind of woman she is when she wakes up.
While I found that the story flowed smoothly after a while, the first seven chapters were all action and minimal description. I actually enjoyed this because I have been known to fall asleep reading wordy descriptions and ultimately, that discourages me from reading the rest of the book. This novel is part mystery, part romance, and part historical fiction. The novel ended with some more mysterious disappearing and definitely left me wanting more!
This book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2013
Traces of Mercy by Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley
At the end of the Civil War Mercy is hurt in a accident that leaves her bruised, battered and with amnesia. She is brought to a local physician Dr. Abe, where she is cared for. The big mystery surrounding her is not only the loss of memory but the fact that she is dressed as a man, has a man’s haircut and has a gun shot wound. When she is physical healed Dr. Abe brings her to Mother Helena at the Little Sisters of Hope. Mother Helena gives her the name Mercy because of the medallion she is wearing. She struggles to live among the nuns, finding happiness and searching for a lost past. Mercy meets and falls in love with the rich, handsome eligible bachelor Rand. His family are strong supporters of the Union. In fact his father owns the railroad that was instrumental in the conquering of confederates during the war. As time goes on Mercy and Rand decide to marry despite the fact she has no clue to her past. At their engagement party she meets Union officer Elijah Hale. He has the power to cost Mercy everything, Rand’s love for her and even her life. The authors Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley bring you a compelling story of faith, love and courage found in times of fear and terminal. In this book you will find rich history, romance and mystery. I was so intrigued by the characters that I had a hard time putting this page turner down and found myself truly disappointed for the story to end. I can only hope they plan to write more. I want to thank the authors Michael Landon Jr., Cindy Kelley and publisher David C. Cook for bringing good clean Christian books like this one to readers like me. I would also like to thank The Book Club Network Inc. for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.
At the end of the Civil War Mercy is hurt in a accident that leaves her bruised, battered and with amnesia. She is brought to a local physician Dr. Abe, where she is cared for. The big mystery surrounding her is not only the loss of memory but the fact that she is dressed as a man, has a man’s haircut and has a gun shot wound. When she is physical healed Dr. Abe brings her to Mother Helena at the Little Sisters of Hope. Mother Helena gives her the name Mercy because of the medallion she is wearing. She struggles to live among the nuns, finding happiness and searching for a lost past. Mercy meets and falls in love with the rich, handsome eligible bachelor Rand. His family are strong supporters of the Union. In fact his father owns the railroad that was instrumental in the conquering of confederates during the war. As time goes on Mercy and Rand decide to marry despite the fact she has no clue to her past. At their engagement party she meets Union officer Elijah Hale. He has the power to cost Mercy everything, Rand’s love for her and even her life. The authors Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley bring you a compelling story of faith, love and courage found in times of fear and terminal. In this book you will find rich history, romance and mystery. I was so intrigued by the characters that I had a hard time putting this page turner down and found myself truly disappointed for the story to end. I can only hope they plan to write more. I want to thank the authors Michael Landon Jr., Cindy Kelley and publisher David C. Cook for bringing good clean Christian books like this one to readers like me. I would also like to thank The Book Club Network Inc. for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 17, 2013
Traces of Mercy
Well when they said that this book was written by proved writers, I didnt know if I wanted to believe but, this book captured my attention from the first page and kept me in tight grip till last page and still now I wonder what sequel of this book will be.. One thing I was hoping throught the whole book and still wish for it to happen is for her and luteunant to end up together.. ;) Authors created caracters with real emotions and straggles -- not redicoulos not extra good and not bad beyond redemption and I really liked that balance.. A mestirious past of a beautiful young women that drove her to become a confederate soldier and now is berried in deep dark hole called amnesia is causing all kinds of trouble for her and more so the dashing your luteunant who remembers her and threatens to ruin her future happiness by revieling the little but sordid truth from her past to her beloved fiance.. In a way I believe that he saved her from fait worse than a hanging noose even thou he saves her from that too.. I really enjoyed this book. It brought a different perspective to the civil war and the harted that remained even after it.. I cant wait for the second book in this series..
Dear reader I hope you have an opportunity to get this book because I know this historical romance will pleasantly surprize you and keep you captivated just like it kept me..
Disclaimer: I recieved a free copy of this book from publisher, through NetGalley, in exchamge for my honest opinion.
Well when they said that this book was written by proved writers, I didnt know if I wanted to believe but, this book captured my attention from the first page and kept me in tight grip till last page and still now I wonder what sequel of this book will be.. One thing I was hoping throught the whole book and still wish for it to happen is for her and luteunant to end up together.. ;) Authors created caracters with real emotions and straggles -- not redicoulos not extra good and not bad beyond redemption and I really liked that balance.. A mestirious past of a beautiful young women that drove her to become a confederate soldier and now is berried in deep dark hole called amnesia is causing all kinds of trouble for her and more so the dashing your luteunant who remembers her and threatens to ruin her future happiness by revieling the little but sordid truth from her past to her beloved fiance.. In a way I believe that he saved her from fait worse than a hanging noose even thou he saves her from that too.. I really enjoyed this book. It brought a different perspective to the civil war and the harted that remained even after it.. I cant wait for the second book in this series..
Dear reader I hope you have an opportunity to get this book because I know this historical romance will pleasantly surprize you and keep you captivated just like it kept me..
Disclaimer: I recieved a free copy of this book from publisher, through NetGalley, in exchamge for my honest opinion.
October 8, 2013
What a surprise beginning chapter, each page captures your attention, grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go until the end of the book really. And I'm all ready to read the next book. There is going to be one, isn't there?
Mercy, so named because she wakes up after being shot and taken as a prisoner, can't remember a thing of her past. What is she doing wearing mens clothes when she's found? Why is she bound to make her look like a man? And, why was she shot?
Mercy is taken to live with a group of nuns close to where the Dr.'s office is located. She has a terrible time adjusting to all they ask of her. She just wants to put the mens clothing back on and run away. She doesn't want to make friends with anyone, let alone fall in love with any of them.
The one thing that Mercy is really good at is working with horses. She can talk with them so they will calm down and do whatever she wishes of them. The first time she gets out and rides she gets into a big mess, but meets someone who will be special in her life.
There are so many ups and downs and surprises in this book you won't want to put it down. I read it in two sittings, and can't wait for the next one. I would recommend this book to any and all who love Civil War era stories with romance. Michael Landon, Jr. and Cindy Kelley have collaborated on other projects, like 'Love Comes Softly'.
This book was given to me by Book Fun Club in exchange for my honest opinion.
Mercy, so named because she wakes up after being shot and taken as a prisoner, can't remember a thing of her past. What is she doing wearing mens clothes when she's found? Why is she bound to make her look like a man? And, why was she shot?
Mercy is taken to live with a group of nuns close to where the Dr.'s office is located. She has a terrible time adjusting to all they ask of her. She just wants to put the mens clothing back on and run away. She doesn't want to make friends with anyone, let alone fall in love with any of them.
The one thing that Mercy is really good at is working with horses. She can talk with them so they will calm down and do whatever she wishes of them. The first time she gets out and rides she gets into a big mess, but meets someone who will be special in her life.
There are so many ups and downs and surprises in this book you won't want to put it down. I read it in two sittings, and can't wait for the next one. I would recommend this book to any and all who love Civil War era stories with romance. Michael Landon, Jr. and Cindy Kelley have collaborated on other projects, like 'Love Comes Softly'.
This book was given to me by Book Fun Club in exchange for my honest opinion.
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