A Thousand Shall Fall

Shenandoah Valley Saga #1

by Andrea Boeshaar

A story of love, hope, and healing set in the midst of the Civil War Nineteen-year-old Carrie Ann Bell is independent and spirited. The only thing she really fears are the Union soldiers fighting against her Confederate friends. When her youngest sister runs away from home, brave Carrie Ann is determined to find her and bring her back. Disguised as a soldier, she sets off--only to find she's fallen into the hands of the enemy.

Her childhood friend Confederate Major Joshua Blevins has warned her against these Yankees: they're all devils, ready to inflict evil on unsuspecting young women. When Colonel Peyton Collier arrests her for her impersonation of an officer, it seems to confirm all her fears.

Soon, though, she finds herself drawn to the handsome, gallant colonel. He rescued her, protected her, and has been every inch the gentleman. Carrie Ann discovers that her foe has become her ally--and more than that, someone she could love. But the arrival of Joshua in the Union camp as a spy will test her loyalties. Will she protect someone who has been like family or be loyal to this stranger to whom she wants to offer her heart? When her world is being torn apart around her, whom should she trust?

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, A Thousand Shall Fall is framed around compelling characters and a very romantic setting in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Andrea Boeshaar's extensive research guarantees historical accuracy and romance genre enthusiasts and Civil War buffs alike will enjoy the Christian perspectives on actual historical events.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Civil War, Christian, Romance, Fiction

288 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2015

About the author

Andrea Kuhn Boeshaar has been married for more than 30 years. She and her husband, Daniel, have three adult sons, daughters-in-law, and two precious grandchildren. Andrea's educational background includes the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, where she studied in English, and Alverno College where she studied in Professional Communications and Business Management.

Andrea has been writing stories and poems since she was a little girl; however, it wasn't until 1984 that she started submitting her work for publication. Eight years after that, she was convicted about writing for the Christian market. She read books in her genre (Inspirational Romance & Women's Fiction), studied the market, and worked hard to hone her craft.

Reviews

[Staci · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel set in the Civil War was a miss for me. I found parts of the story line to be unrealistic. The dialogue wasn't engaging.

What I did like about the novel was the cover, the author's forward and the character Tommy.

[Jasmine (Jazzie) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rtc!!

[Tressa (Wishful Endings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A THOUSAND SHALL FALL was a heartbreaking tale of a woman trying to keep her family protected and the Union officer who, in turn, attempts to keep her safe. There were moments of fighting and suffering during this war, spies, broken and false friendships as well as true friendships, inspirational moments, and a sweet romance and love that developed between these two characters. An enjoyable read for those who enjoy inspirational romance.

What I enjoyed most from this story were the characters. I loved Peyton's aunt and her friend/housekeeper. I loved a few of Peyton's men who were well drawn and played memorable roles. I loved Carrie Ann's sass, fortitude, drive, and sweetness. I love Peyton's integrity, willingness to protect, and sense of humor. Carrie and Peyton were well matched and the witty dialogue was a joy to read. It was a good counter to the sadness and cruelty of this terrible war and the atrocities the people faced.

I'm curious about the next book in the series, Too Deep for Words, to be released November 2016. It's on my list to read and I'm looking forward to it!

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Litfuse Publicity, which did not affect my review in any way.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea Boeshaar has gifted us with a wonderful read, a page-turner for sure, and one that will linger with you for a long time. The reality of the Civil War in the Southern States was not pretty, and we picture all of the destruction from the eyes of young Carrie Ann Bell, and Colonel Peyton Collier, a Virginian in the Northern Army.
We meet Aunt Ruth and immediately fall in love with her and how she cares for people. With a few chuckles as she “puts her foot in her mouth”, when she makes a lie into something even bigger. Oh my, she is a northern sympathizer living in the South, and has friends, kind of, on both sides.
Loved all the amazing facts that are presented here and there is a great deal of research done by the author, and loved how it is all worked into this story.
Both main characters are Northern sympathizers and are from the South, both have friends that would be considered enemies, and these are woven into the story, and sometimes you wonder how they know whom they can trust.
A really good historical read, which once you turn that first pages your gone until the end.
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I almost passed on this novel as I am not a huge fan of historical fiction. This would've been a mistake. A THOUSAND SHALL FALL did start kind of slow - with Carrie Ann meeting up with an old childhood friend, but nothing clicked for me. I kept reading about then there was a click, about 50 or so pages in that grabbed my interest and it was held through-out the remainder of the book.

I enjoyed getting to know Carrie Ann and Peyton, and even Joshua. Set during the Civil War and not after as most books during this time period. As such, it is greatly different (and more interesting) than most. A great book by a very talented author. I'm anxious to read the second book in this series.

[Christy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was a little up and down with this read! I enjoyed the beginning and then Colonel Collier and Carrie's conversations bogged me down. There were pieces in between that would lift me back up; such as meeting Tabitha and Aunt Ruth. These two women were the respite that I wanted more of. They were fun, quick witted and interesting and most of all they were a nice break from the romance that took over too many scenes for me. I prefer historical with a very light hint of romance. In all it was a nice read; just not the balance I was looking for.

[ASC Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part 1: First Impression (part way through book) Lovely read! This is the first of Andrea's books I've read and I REALLY enjoy it! Anyone who follows my reading and reviews knows I enjoy a good Civil War read! :) And that's exactly what I've found A Thousand Shall Fall to be! I immediately liked Carrie as a heroine and felt for her as she tries to make things right in her family. I also enjoy the way Andrea writes. She throws you right into Carrie's life and fills you in on her past along the way! Filled with battles and authentic feelings and settings you feel as though you're right there with characters in the thick of things! This is one of those books that I don't really want to put down! What will become of Carrie and her family and what twists await as the war fights on? TO BE CONTINUED!!!!!

Part 2: (After I finished the book)
What a read! There where a few things that I think could've/should've been different especially towards the end. And there where a few things I had some problems with, but Carrie's spunkiness made up for some of it! I just love her as a character, really I love the majority of these characters! I'm interested in seeing what else happens in their lives. Overall I think this is an interesting and entertaining read, but still wish things towards the end had been different.

Songs to come: Yankee Doodle, Amazing Grace
Songs etc. May be changed and/or added in the future. ~ASC

Psalm 91:7

~ASC

*I requested and received this book as a member of Litfuse for the purpose of reviewing it. This in no way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about A Thousand Shall Fall. ~ASC

http://litfusegroup.com/author/aboeshaar

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down, page after page I was taken back in time to the Civil War era. The research that went into this book was what made this book for me. I found myself asking my husband now what side was that General on? Not to worry though the answers to my questions were in the next few paragraphs. Great descriptions put me right into the action, although some may be gruesome to think about. The author had me remembering that this war was not just fought in open fields but went right into the heart of our towns and cities. Destroying lives and homes along the way.

I loved reading about Cara Ann and her strong character. It was refreshing to read a woman in that time era that wasn't going to let anyone push her around. She also was caring, hardworking, and a good Christian woman. You can only hope and pray for the best for her throughout the book.

Then in the midst of all the turmoil was a budding romance. Perfect! A wonderful read!

[Carrie Daws · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intense and yet slow-paced read. The author didn't shy away from many of the tragedies of the American Civil War, including the difficulties that naturally arose from living in a town that kept flipping control between the Union and Confederate armies. How do you deal with your enemy when he is also your childhood best friend? How do you deal with personal crises when war rages and limits your options? This story wasn't action-packed, yet it focused appropriately well on the characters and their journey through difficult questions without easy answers. And it kept my interest because I cared about the characters and wanted to know what happened. The book ended with enough closure to satisfy me while still leading forward into the next book in the series, which I appreciate.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is set during the Civil War and gives us a good view of the trials and hardships of this cruel war. In the war-torn South, Carrie sets out to find her younger sister who ran off with a peddler, and she ends up instead, meeting a handsome Union colonel. Her tenacity and above all her compassion for the wounded soldiers, makes this man realize that she is the woman she wants to share his wife with.
A tender love story, full of emotion and strong feelings. The author has done extensive research so all her facts about the war are documented, making the story even more interesting and real.

[Suzanna Codd · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a very pleasant read but nothing overly exciting or different. I'd still say give it a chance and enjoy it :)

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:
A story of love, hope, and healing set in the midst of the Civil War Nineteen-year-old Carrie Ann Bell is independent and spirited. The only thing she really fears are the Union soldiers fighting against her Confederate friends. When her youngest sister runs away from home, brave Carrie Ann is determined to find her and bring her back. Disguised as a soldier, she sets off--only to find she's fallen into the hands of the enemy.

Her childhood friend Confederate Major Joshua Blevins has warned her against these Yankees: they're all devils, ready to inflict evil on unsuspecting young women. When Colonel Peyton Collier arrests her for her impersonation of an officer, it seems to confirm all her fears.

Soon, though, she finds herself drawn to the handsome, gallant colonel. He rescued her, protected her, and has been every inch the gentleman. Carrie Ann discovers that her foe has become her ally--and more than that, someone she could love. But the arrival of Joshua in the Union camp as a spy will test her loyalties. Will she protect someone who has been like family or be loyal to this stranger to whom she wants to offer her heart? When her world is being torn apart around her, whom should she trust?

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, A Thousand Shall Fall is framed around compelling characters and a very romantic setting in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Andrea Boeshaar's extensive research guarantees historical accuracy and romance genre enthusiasts and Civil War buffs alike will enjoy the Christian perspectives on actual historical events.

My Review:
Carrie Ann Bell busies herself with running her father's newspaper, since her father left to document the war. Her mother disagrees with Carrie's chose to run it but with two sisters to feed she believes its best. One day while she is working, her sister decides to run off with a peddler, leaving only a note tell Carrie. Soon Carrie is hot on their trail wearing a Union soldier uniform. Stumbling upon a fight between the union and confederate soldiers, she hides behind a tree but soon falls into the river, letting the union soldiers know she is there. The one to rescue her is none other than Colonel Peyton Collier, the man of whom she help heal up last spring. She believes she will able to get to her sister, now that he knows who she is but he does something unbelievable. He arrests her for impersonating an officer.

Colonel Peyton Collier can't believe his eyes when he learns of Carrie's identity and he knows he must protect her before she does something stupid. Like chasing after her sister and getting herself hurt or worst. Investigating her being there, proves that she is only trying to get to her sister. But he cant just let her go and get herself killed. There is only on thing to do. Send her to his Aunt Ruth's house.

Soon Carrie finds that some secrets are hard to keep, especially when the man you love is endanger. What is she to do? Keep the secret and watch him meet his ultimate demise?

A Thousand Shall Fall is book one in the Shenandoah Valley Saga. This book was an epic read, full of action and adventure. I loved how this book corresponded perfectly with the Civil War history. I cant wait to see what this author writes next!

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Civil War has long been a topic that fascinates me, especially the lives of the civilians who literally lived on the battlefield of the bloody conflict. For that reason, I was eager to read a story where characters are in that exact situation, that then adds a dash of mystery and a little romance, delivering a powerful story of family and relationships that sticks with the reader.

Sometimes I forget that people who lived in the past not only experienced the broader historical context but also personal crises that happened at the same time. Our heroine must find a runaway sister or lose her own home, all while a war is fought around her, making that task even more difficult. It takes courage and tenacity to attempt the impossible, and Carrie Ann has both. She is a spunky heroine that I enjoyed reading about.

Many passages strike home for me, like one in particular where a character believes that bringing an end to the war is more important than winning it. One of the soldiers remarks that with that outcome, those who had died during the conflict did so in vain. That scene struck me as so relevant to our own time—my younger brother served in the Marine Corps and his feel is the same: all the sacrifice is for nothing if we just give up before achieving victory.

But this book did not leave me the same as when I began reading it, either; it also challenged my thoughts and perceptions, including one about respect, that coddling an adult who behaves as a child is actually disrespectful. I wrestled with that one for a while. I still am, to be honest. I tend to think that it shows deference to an elder if I try to help and provide for their preferences; I had never considered that by not encouraging them to participate in real life with me that I was limiting them and treating them as somehow ill-equipped to handle the challenges of life. Put that way, it does seem impertinent for me to assume the adult cannot handle the situation by trying to shelter them from it.

Big-picture spiritual questions get asked but I found it very realistic that not all of them receive answers. Why DOES God allow war? What purpose does it serve? Still other things made me see spiritual concepts a bit differently or more strongly, like the reminder that even a war, in all of its brutality and horror, is merely a glimpse of the Christ-less eternity awaiting those who have not accepted Him.

This book is a deeper read than some, both in terms of subject matter and spiritual discussions. The historical detail is excellent and adds to the atmosphere and storyline—from deserters and bushwhackers, to boys too young to enlist acting as couriers and assisting with horses, to how people lived day to day in the middle of a war zone, the information is well-incorporated into the narrative without overburdening the plot. I would highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical romance, especially those with an interest in the Civil War or war’s impact on civilian life.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) to facilitate this honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea Boeshaar in her new book, “A Thousand Shall Fall” Book One in the Shenandoah Valley Saga series published by Kregel Publications brings us into the life of Carrie Ann Bell.

From the back cover: A story of love, hope, and healing set in the midst of the Civil War

Nineteen-year-old Carrie Ann Bell is independent and spirited. The only thing she really fears are the Union soldiers fighting against her Confederate friends. When her youngest sister runs away from home, brave Carrie Ann is determined to find her and bring her back. Disguised as a soldier, she sets off–only to find she’s fallen into the hands of the enemy.Her childhood friend Confederate Major Joshua Blevins has warned her against these Yankees: they’re all devils, ready to inflict evil on unsuspecting young women. When Colonel Peyton Collier arrests her for her impersonation of an officer, it seems to confirm all her fears.

Soon, though, she finds herself drawn to the handsome, gallant colonel. He rescued her, protected her, and has been every inch the gentleman. Carrie Ann discovers that her foe has become her ally–and more than that, someone she could love. But the arrival of Joshua in the Union camp as a spy will test her loyalties. Will she protect someone who has been like family or be loyal to this stranger to whom she wants to offer her heart? When her world is being torn apart around her, whom should she trust?

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, A Thousand Shall Fall is framed around compelling characters and a very romantic setting in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Andrea Boeshaar’s extensive research guarantees historical accuracy and romance genre enthusiasts and Civil War buffs alike will enjoy the Christian perspectives on actual historical events.

The American Civil War lasted four years fought from 1861 to 1865. Carrie Ann is searching for her sister, who has run away, in August of 1864. Now she is captured by the Yankees and that is where the story really kicks into high gear. This is a story all about prejudice and how it is taught to us. “A Thousand Shall Fall” is a story of love, forgiveness and restoration. This book is an exciting read full of action and adventure. I like the way Ms. Boeshaar writes. She is an accomplished author who knows how to deliver true to life dialog and create wonderful characters that you fall in love with. The love story between Carrie Ann and Peyton is a lot of fun and this book is filled with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages. This is an excellent read! I recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.”

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Thousand Shall Fall: A Civil War Novel***** (Shenandoah Valley Saga) by Andrea Boeshaar

Autumn 1884...Nineteen-year old Carrie Ann Bell has not had an easy life and now her youngest sister has runaway with a peddler. How can she find her before she gets too far away? She runs into her long-time friend, Joshua Blevens, now a Major in the Confederate Army, and asks him to help her. But he is a solider now and can't....she is on her own. Disguised as a Yankee soldier, she searches along Virginia's Shenandoah Valley and stumbles into a skirmish near Front Royal and tries to hide. Union cavalry soldier Colonel Peyton Collier finds her and arrests her for impersonating an officer—thinking her a young boy. He soon learns she is a Southern woman, which causes more problems for him and more trouble for her. Even more surprising, he actually knows her. Will he believe her and let her go? How can he let her just walk off into danger—danger from both sides? He has no choice, he must protect her—right? Carrie has other ideas—even though she is drawn to Peyton—she must find her sister.

Carrie is a strong woman—and a little feisty, which works well to her advantage in her current circumstances—who lives out her beliefs and even though she is afraid, she steps out in faith in search of her sister in the middle of a war. I don't know if I could have done that given those circumstances. I like her spirit, dedication to her family, the way she honors her promises—even when those promises could bring danger to those she loves—and strong faith. I love Peyton's honor, character, gallantry, the way he stays true to his faith even in the midst of war. I really enjoyed Peyton's Aunt Ruth and Tabitha, they brought humor, grace and love in the midst of chaos and war. Of course, like any good story, there are characters who cause problems, trouble, bring evil and danger to the others—as they do in this story. Being a retired RN, I was especially interested in the medical practices during the Civil War—some of which were gruesome and unsanitary and I found myself cringing as I read of those practices.

A Thousand Shall Fall is based on Civil War history....Andrea Boeshaar has done extensive research for her story and covers some of that research in the book, including a map of the area surrounding her story, which is helpful. Taking this research and weaving a dramatic, intriguing and captivating story with characters that draw the reader into its pages.

~I received a copy of this book from TBCN for my honest review...this is my honest review~

[Pegg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good Civil War series and the Shenandoah Valley Saga caught my eye. This is the first book, but book two is teased at the end and I'm already looking forward to reading that one.

A Thousand Shall Fall is the story of Carrie Ann Bell. Left in dire consequences when the war comes to their home in the Shenandoah Valley, Carrie Ann does her best to keep her family together. But her father is missing and her youngest sister has run off. Carrie Ann devises a desperate plan to retrieve her sister. What she finds instead is a Yankee colonel who she's met before.

In the beginning of this story, I was sure I must have misunderstood and missed book one. There is a lot of backstory regarding the first time Carrie Ann and Peyton met. It honestly reads like the second book for a while. But stick with it, it's worth it, and it'll all come out in the end.

Andrea Boeshaar did a wonderful job of setting the reader into the Shenandoah Valley amidst a divided people. Virginia split into two states, Virginia and West Virginia, because of the Civil War. Loyalists and rebels lived very close to each other here. And then came the orders to burn the valley. Powerful images and insights into how these events affected those living there at the time.

[Nana]

The first in the Shenandoah Valley Saga, A Thousand Shall Fall is an exciting and unpredictable narrative of the Civil War and those who lived and fought in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Descriptive and picturesque, the Shenandoah area comes to life through Ms. Boeshaar's detailed novel. Well researched and documented, the war and the lives of those who lived during that difficult time in our country's history come to life.

Characters are very well depicted and developed throughout the book, bringing the reader closer to the characters who are presented. There are strong and vital characters, sensitive and warmhearted individuals, and others who brought out the anger in me. Many of these characters will remain with me as time goes on. This author has a gift of creating memorable events and characters, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

If you're fond of Civil War history you'll surely enjoy this well written documentation of believable and well founded information throughout this book. It's memorable!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network, Book Fun's For Readers Only program in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulously moving story! This will take you into the lives of those who suffered and lived in the harsh times of the civil war. Even through the mud and exploding shells romance can bloom. Carrie Ann just wants to find her sister and will do anything to get her back to safety. Peyton just wants to survive, and win, the war. Thrown into each other’s lives they certainly have sparks! The author has depicted the realities of war and hard life during those times so well I felt I was in the middle of it all. My heart twisted and turned too many times to count! Perfect secondary characters added depth and so much more to the story line. Both Carrie Ann and Peyton struggle with who do you protect and who can you trust during war? Beautiful spiritual thread reminds us that God is always with us and we can lean on Him. Danger, suspense, and hope abound and keep you turning the pages because you just have to know how it turns out! I adored this story and will certainly be finding more books by this talented author!
I received the book from bookfun.org for an honest review.

[Erin Cataldi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sassy, independent, Carrie Ann Bell, finds herself in a pickle when she's captured by Union soldiers and arrested for impersonating an officer. It had all started off soo innocently enough, her younger sister had run off and Carrie thought it was her duty to sneak behind enemy lines to go find her. The Yanks have no idea what to do with this smart talking, headstrong woman, but one soldier, Colonel Collier, has his eye on her.

Carrie finds herself caught up in the midst of the war and she doesn't know where to turn or who to trust other than God. All she wants to do is find her sister, but she finds herself compelled to stay and help with the wounded. It doesn't hurt that she also has eyes for the dashing Colonel. Is there time for love in the midst of war? Which side is she loyal to? For fans of inspirational romance and historical fiction.

I received this book for free from Litfuse Publicity in return for my honest, unbiased review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy historical fiction, Andrea Boeshaar has done a fantastic job with "A Thousand Shall Fall." This book is definitely a page-turner about the Southern States, who face the Civil War. We see the story through the lens of Ann and Colonel Peyton. What makes this story, so unique and unusual is the authors ability to take research and weave it into this story. I love how she used this realistic information and applied to a story that is beautifully told, but in a way that makes the reader understand the period.

Additionally, I love how the reader learns to sympathize with the struggles of the Northerns despite the main characters being from the South.

This book is captivating, intriguing and romantic. I look forward to reading book two as this is one of those books you can't put down, and you soon won't forget.

Thank you to the Book Club Network for providing me a copy. My reviews can be found on Amazon & Good Reads.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, 'A Thousand Shall Fall' is not my favorite historical romance, but I suppose nears the top in Civil War Era novels. I want to read more historical fiction books in this era after reading this one! Still, Boeshaar's book has merit. Although the pace was sluggish, the story was interesting, historical, and romantic. The time period and geographical area Boeshaar has picked are fun and will undoubtedly produce many fantastic stories. The end of 'A Thousand Shall Fall' features a preview of book two, 'Too Deep for Words', and seems to be about Carrie Ann's sister Margaret. I loved the preview and will be reading book two when it releases in 2016. 3.5 stars.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via litfuse publicity in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Britney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Thousand Shall Fall is a compelling tale! Andrea Boeshaar writes with historical accuracy and a Christian perspective as she shares the story of a young, spirited woman who finds herself in the hands of the enemy.

I love Civil War era novels and this one certainly captured my attention! The characterization is excellent, and I really enjoyed the relationships that develop as the story unfolds. Boeshaar’s extensive research and attention to detail bring life to the narrative, as she weaves a love story amidst the events that transpired in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Filled with drama, danger, and romance, I really enjoyed A Thousand Shall Fall and eagerly await the next installment in the Shenandoah Valley Saga!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tremendous book!

I don't know if I could sum this review up in a few words...there were a lot of twists and turns to this book. Well worth the read!

I received a copy of this book for my honest review.

[glenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny and interesting! A good American Civil War historical read!

[Mikayla Robbins · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Read

I’ve been wanting to read this series after reading the final book, not knowing it was a trilogy. I like supporting other authors, so let’s talk about ‘A Thousand Shall Fall’ by Andrea Boeshaar.

I would give this 4 stars because it was thrilling, but it was too slow at the beginning. The ending was so good, though!

It took me 3 months to get to page 100, and I finally committed to finishing this afternoon. After page 150, there is a surprise “fake it to till you make it” trope. We have the main female protagonist pretending to be her crush’s half-sister until his loud and obnoxious aunt tells her nephew’s ex fiancé that she’s actually his wife. So much chaos was happening, and I loved it!

Carrie Ann Bell is a spirited, aspiring journalist who poses as a deserted Union soldier to find her younger sister in the Shenandoah Valley, who has run off with a peddler. While on the way, she is captured by charming Union officer, Peyton Collier. As their romance blossoms, Peyton sends her to his elderly aunt to be her companion. While living in luxury, Carrie harbors not one, but multiple secrets that could put herself and Peyton’s family in danger.

One thing I can say from this book is if you’re a stressed out bride, you should read this book. This book has the most CHAOTIC wedding scene I have ever read about. You can’t be stressed out anymore, knowing it can’t get any worse than this!

From wedding guest killing each other, kidnappings, an ex-fiancé trying to steal the groom, and the bride and groom almost ending the marriage, I was thrown for a loop! This was really something! Now onto book two!

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lovely, happy, fairly predictable. Because Carrie Ann disguised herself as a Yankee soldier, this caught my interest and made me want to read the book. I was hoping for a bit more of the Civil War battles, intricacies of officers/enlisted, and heart-felt emotions that go along with war. Instead the book was more along the lines of a love story. It was a sweet, easy read. The characters were good and I enjoyed how the author brought culture and societal customs into play.

Boeshaar had a wonderful way with her verbiage. Her literary skills were extremely enjoyable to read. They maintained a certain grace and appeal that made me happy.

Improvements: I wish she had created more of storyline with regards to the missing sister. Some intrigue and backstory would have been excellent.

In enjoyed the book and I believe there is a second in the series and plan to read it.

[Janie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love 💘

Love of family was reason Carrie Ann left home to search for her sister, love for fellow Christians helped her nurse the ill and injured and love of a good man was what her ministry lead her to. I am not saying that the road was easy. To have those tidbits might cause you to pass by this awesome read. I am glad to say that our heroine carries on in a sequel book. I would give more stars 🌟 if I could, however I am allowed my personal rating system of a mark of an Awesome Dawson rating of 10 stars 🌟. THANK YOU ANDREA BOESHARR for a very well written book. I am sure the next book will be just as special as A Thousand Shall Fall. Thank you again, mjm

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book that was focused around the Civil War and the trials of the folks in the Shenandoah Valley that were on different sides but were neighbors. This focuses on Carrie Ann who is a young naïve girl that is holding her family together during these difficult times. When things happen Carrie is forced to choose sides and there will be a cost of that in the long run. When she is encounters Col. Peyton Collier she has a chance for a future.

My only complaint of this book is that is a cliffhanger.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful civil war era novel. This is the first book in the Shenandoah Valley Saga. Carrie Ann Bell needs to search for her runaway sister and ends up in the middle of a battle. She is saved by Colonel Peyton Collier. This book made me laugh and cry. I needed to learn all I could about Carrie Ann and Peyton. This shows what it was like to be near a battle. I received this book from Bookfun.org for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[Yvette Tsiropoulos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well researched historical data; strong characters; a weaving of historical data with creative overlay. I plodded along the first couple of chapters because it read more like a history textbook, perhaps it was the author's intention of a backstory.

In my opinion, lost one star because of a few errors, e.g. she "shuttered" vs she shuddered;
"capitol" vs capital.