The Thorn Healer (Penned in Time #3) by Pepper D. Basham

Nov 16, 2016 Taylor rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorites, netgalley

Reviewed at my blog: Babbling Books

“Scars held power, their lingering sting bleeding into the present.”

*I received an e-ARC of this book through NetGalley from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review*

This book is my first real foray into Christan Fiction. I have always wanted to read a true “Christian” book as I am a Christian myself and am finding that I want to read cleaner material in my books (hence the changing in my review style) but every time I have tried to read Reviewed at my blog: Babbling Books

“Scars held power, their lingering sting bleeding into the present.”

*I received an e-ARC of this book through NetGalley from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review*

This book is my first real foray into Christan Fiction. I have always wanted to read a true “Christian” book as I am a Christian myself and am finding that I want to read cleaner material in my books (hence the changing in my review style) but every time I have tried to read a book with the Christian label they always seemed so…forgive me…boring. The plots were dull, the characters unimaginative and the narrative surrounding the religious aspects just seemed so forced. So what on earth made me pick up this book, pretty simple actually, the World War 1 storyline.

Being a history buff and The World Wars being one of my favorite topics of interest, I was drawn to the time period this book takes place in, so I knew even if the book itself wasn’t spectacular I could at least enjoy the setting. But, luckily for me, this book ended up being a really wonderful, well-written and beautifully soul-catching piece of literature. Everything about the time period, dress style and mannerisms of the day seemed well researched by the author and were wonderfully executed. It helped to keep everything in perfect sync as I read along and really got engrossed into the book.

Of course, I am a sucker for epic romances. And with the glut of insta-love and characters falling in love that really shouldn’t in books I’ve read recently, this book was such a breath of fresh air. Since the narrative plays from both perspectives we get to see how each character changes and grows through their feelings for each other and just how beautiful that relationship is. So much these days we forget that friendship and companionship are as important as passion and love. This book deals wonderfully with the idea that August knows he needs to heal Jessica’s wounds by showing her that the person she is matters more to him than the scars she bears. I adored how this book showed through several relationships (like Anna & Cliff’s) that the mending of a heart doesn’t always have to come through overt declarations of love or affection. Sometimes just being a calming and reassuring presence has more effect than anything else.

The religious elements didn’t feel overbearing to me in any way as the author wove them in to the plot line perfectly, showing how August’s gentle care of Jessica’s heart paralleled God’s everlasting love and unchanging faithfulness. I liked how the author would put in the small interludes that I took to be God’s voice whispering to Jessica, that felt very sweet and endearing to me as God is known as the “still small voice” which I feel the author represented well in this book.

There are many other elements of this book I could praise, like the author’s medical knowledge of the period as well as her wonderful crafting of miniature mystery plots, even though I wish more had been done about Mr. Little in the end. The secondary characters were beautifully written too, and I particularly loved Jessica’s brother and sister-in-law.

Another great thing about this book is that although it's technically a part of a series (Penned in Time #3) I never felt like I was missing any huge pieces of a story or that I was lost when trying to understand the plot. I'm sure there are things I would've grasped better had I read the first two books, but this one stands perfectly on it's own.

Overall I feel very blessed I got the opportunity to read this book and I recommend it to anyone who would love a good read to cozy up with on these upcoming holiday evenings. It will give you all the warm feelings of love while transporting you to another time on a marvelous adventure through the lives of some fabulous characters. ...more

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Dec 07, 2016 Kara rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical

Oh friends, Pepper Basham has done it again! She has swept me away into the post-WW1 era and captivated me from the first page to the last. How does she do it?? I don't know, but it makes me happy! :) One thing that becomes fairly obvious pretty quickly (with any of her books) is the fact that Ms. Basham has done a tremendous amount of research. All these little tidbits that happen or certain scenes I think were probably just from her imagination turn out to be true! There is so much fascinating Oh friends, Pepper Basham has done it again! She has swept me away into the post-WW1 era and captivated me from the first page to the last. How does she do it?? I don't know, but it makes me happy! :) One thing that becomes fairly obvious pretty quickly (with any of her books) is the fact that Ms. Basham has done a tremendous amount of research. All these little tidbits that happen or certain scenes I think were probably just from her imagination turn out to be true! There is so much fascinating history out there that I didn't know anything about. And she knows just how to place them in her story to make the biggest impact, so they're unforgettable! She's talented, I tell you.

So let's start with the characters. I admit to being a tad anxious about whether I was going to be able to connect with Jessica. From the first two books, I knew she tended to be slightly abrasive and fierce. In fact, I struggled to like her at all in book two, she simply came across as hardened and had so many walls up that I couldn't see beyond them. I should have known to trust her creator though, because I ended up really liking her by the end! It just takes a while for her walls to come down and really, who can blame her? Even as I searched for breaks in those walls, once I realized what was causing them I was able to feel more compassion for her. Unlike Catherine (from The Thorn Keeper) who I connected with immediately, Jessica merely took a bit longer. Those walls were concrete. And thick. And all I had to go on were the things that those who loved her said about how she used to be. Plus, now that I think on it, she had a strike against her simply for being so horrible to my beloved Catherine for so much of book two. (What can I say? I really love Catherine.) Anyhoo! Point is, as her walls fell, so did mine and it wasn't long before I was rooting for her to find healing and peace.

And August! Oh my heart, it did not take long at all for me to fall for that man. (As Ms. Basham calls him, swoony August. Truer words! ;) Somehow he had the ability to see beyond Jessica's walls to her sweet and compassionate heart. His heart was ever clear to see and I loved that about him! His kindness and gentle way of treating everyone, regardless of how they treat him, is one of my favorite traits of his. It's no wonder he was able to break through to Jess! He is a true gentleman in every sense of the word. His patience with her and her many scars, his sweetness with Sylvie and Anna, and oh pretty much everything about him! He is the perfect foil for Jess and watching him gently and persistently woo her to his side is gloriously swoony. Yet never doubt that inside him beats a heart of fierce steadfastness! When it comes to doing the right thing in face of harsh circumstances, and especially if those circumstances could hurt those he loves, he will battle as needed. He's just more of a "quiet fighter" most of the time.

I loved watching both of these characters fight their way to a happy future. Their journey is certainly not easy, but oh so rewarding when they finally get there. The hope that permeates every single page makes this a beautiful story of grace and any bit of happy is hard-won, even from the wonderful side characters. (I personally really loved Cliff and Anna especially! :) And per Ms. Basham's usual, there are twists I was so not prepared for, yet her ability to draw me into her story so far that I struggle to come back to real life again is exceptional! I can but applaud her skills and only dream of writing so excellently myself because she goes far beyond the shallow romance here, there are depths of insight to be searched out if you'll only begin with chapter one. Trust me, friends! It's worth it. SO worth it. :)

**I received a complimentary copy via Singing Librarian Books. All opinions expressed are my own. ...more

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Dec 04, 2016 Courtney Clark rated it it was amazing

Warning: only read this story if you are prepared to engage every emotion known to man because you become so invested in these characters' hearts. Examples include tension, fear, joy, uncertainty, and brokenness that turns to healing, ALL of which are bound in exquisite hope. The hope found in acceptance, family, love, and most of all, the hope found in Christ.

Jessica Ross has been an important, though secondary, part of 2 previous books in this series. With The Thorn Healer, her story is told Warning: only read this story if you are prepared to engage every emotion known to man because you become so invested in these characters' hearts. Examples include tension, fear, joy, uncertainty, and brokenness that turns to healing, ALL of which are bound in exquisite hope. The hope found in acceptance, family, love, and most of all, the hope found in Christ.

Jessica Ross has been an important, though secondary, part of 2 previous books in this series. With The Thorn Healer, her story is told fabulously. (note: this book can be read as a standalone!). She is instantly likable with her fun, feisty attitude and numerous scars just below the surface. She journeys through so much reminding her how much uncertainty one can face in life, AND how a sense of wholeness only comes through surrender to God. On top of that, she faces her own prejudices and understandable challenges when encountering August and his German countrymen in her hometown just after the catastrophes of WWI. And boy does she put up a fight facing down those issues! Talk about witty dialogue :).

While we're discussing August, let me just mention how he's the perfect opposites-attract --and most unexpected -- complimentary hero for Jessica. He catches her off guard with his honesty and strength of faith. As Jessica notes at one point, an apt description for him is a "quiet fighter" (ch 8). And the romance that eventually transpires between these two is "signature Pepper" with its spark, sweetness, and poignancy. As Pepper has said before, August's character demonstrates wonderfully the unconditional love of Christ for His bride.

This is a beautiful drama that explores much more than a romance or the aftermath of WWI. Instead, it delves deep into a story of faith, of the reminder that scars have little power over forgiveness, that God is the source of steadfast hope, and that fulfilling love is sometimes unexpected in its wholeness and form.

There are so many facets I could further discuss about this story. Like the supporting characters and their humor, or the historically accurate (and fascinating!) setting and events that take place in small town Appalachia, or the glimpse of favorite characters from a previous story, or the beauty of the LETTERS exchanged between certain parties. Or even the hold-your-breath ending. But I will leave you with this plea: read this series from Pepper. You will be blessed by its stories of faith and love.

Thank you to Vinspire Publishing and SLB for the complimentary review copy of this book. This is my honest review. ...more

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Dec 06, 2016 Carrie Schmidt (Reading is My SuperPower) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: book-boyfriends, appalachia-smokies, kissingbooks-101-future-syllabus, the-feels, historical, owned-print, romantic-fiction, blog-reviewed, small-towns, world-war-1

Y’all.

This book. This hero. These words. Those kisses! (That cover!)

To be honest, I sorta still harbored a few less than cordial feelings toward Jessica after her treatment of Catherine in The Thorn Keeper. But then, under Pepper’s great talent for drawing the beauty out of the broken, I began to see myself in Jessica. In her bondage to fear, in her insecurities, in her fierceness (both positive and negative).

And then in August (whom I loved immediately), I began to see my Savior. And oh… y’all. Y’all.

This book. This hero. These words. Those kisses! (That cover!)

To be honest, I sorta still harbored a few less than cordial feelings toward Jessica after her treatment of Catherine in The Thorn Keeper. But then, under Pepper’s great talent for drawing the beauty out of the broken, I began to see myself in Jessica. In her bondage to fear, in her insecurities, in her fierceness (both positive and negative).

And then in August (whom I loved immediately), I began to see my Savior. And oh… y’all. THAT is when The Thorn Healer soared up the ranks to become my favorite of the series.

You see, he loved her before she met him. And he patiently waits for her, continuing to love Jessica until her objections to him begin to scatter in the wind. He gives her dignity in the midst of her panic, courage in the middle of her fears, honesty when she needs to hear some, and strength when hers runs out. August teaches her that beauty can be found in brokenness, gratitude in scars, and love in unexpected places.

The symbolism in The Thorn Healer is exquisite, the romance equally so, and the words that convey both elements will linger in your heart for years. And the history to be found on these pages is some of the most fascinating I’ve discovered about America during WW1. A prison camp for German detainees – most of whom had absolutely nothing to do with the war being fought on other shores – right in the middle of a “teeny tiny town” in North Carolina. I love it when a fiction book causes the history geek in me to start drooling in anticipation of doing my own research to learn more. The Thorn Healer affected me like that perhaps more than any book I’ve read in recent… well.. in recent history.

Pepper Basham’s gift of storytelling comes home to the Blue Ridge Mountains in her third Penned in Time book. Intriguing history shares the page with a swoonworthy romance and soul-deep touches of grace. In August Reinhold, you will find a hero of heroes and a tender picture of our Savior’s relentless pursuit of our hearts. I’ve read all three of the Penned in Time books, and I’ve loved them all, but this one is my absolute favorite! Framed in Basham’s exquisite prose, this is a novel that will put down roots in your heart and stay a while.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)

See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower ...more

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Dec 11, 2016 Julia added it

The Thorn Healer by Pepper Basham is a historical romance. It is the third book in the Penned In Time series but can be read as a stand-alone. Set in the final year of World War I, fact meets fiction in this epic read.
There is the theme of trust - trust in God and trust in men. An alien intern camp in the small American town is met with fear and dislike. People distrust the Germans because of their experience in war. Prejudice is rife but not everyone should be tarred with the same brush.
Jessica The Thorn Healer by Pepper Basham is a historical romance. It is the third book in the Penned In Time series but can be read as a stand-alone. Set in the final year of World War I, fact meets fiction in this epic read.
There is the theme of trust - trust in God and trust in men. An alien intern camp in the small American town is met with fear and dislike. People distrust the Germans because of their experience in war. Prejudice is rife but not everyone should be tarred with the same brush.
Jessica is a nurse from the front who finds it hard to trust God after all that she has seen. "How can You see what is happening and so silent?" She is focused on man and not God. Her heart longs to see God but He seems absent. "If You are in the middle of all this mess, show me."
War breeds bitterness. Bitterness will eat away at a person. "The only thing bitterness does is change you, not Him." Feelings of bitterness need to be handed over to God. Lives need to be surrendered to God and committed to His plans.
People returned from war changed. They had seen things they could not 'unsee.' They bore the scars of battle. "War left many scars. Unseen." Not all scars were visible. Many returned with mental scars. Now we know it as PTSD but then it was called shell shock. People were broken but "Nothing is broken that cannot be restored." God is the God of restoration. In Him all things can be made new.
There is a broken down chapel in the novel. This can be seen as a motif for the broken lives. Pieces need to be put back together. Each broken piece is a treasure whose beauty is restored when joined with other broken pieces.
The novel has the theme of taking care of the widows and orphans. There are some truly adorable children in the novel. Young Jude was particularly charming with his child-like observations.
This was my first novel by Pepper Basham and what a treat it was to read. My emotions were twisted this way and that, particularly towards the end when I literally gasped out loud. The Thorn Healer is a poignant read that certainly gives God the glory for His steadfast faithfulness.
A wonderful offering from a new (to me) author.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
...more

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Jun 29, 2016 Meghan DeWalt rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical, historical-romance, inspirational, romance

Jessica Ross is wounded in heart, and spirit, when she returns home from WWI England to her hometown of Hot Springs, North Carolina. She seeks peace and a return to normalcy as her heart is still reeling, but when a tender-hearted German internee, August, enters her life via her beloved grandparents--her world is up-ended yet again. But this time, instead of the ravages of war and brutality, it just might be upended by the tender pursuit of a man who longs for Jessica to see herself the way the Jessica Ross is wounded in heart, and spirit, when she returns home from WWI England to her hometown of Hot Springs, North Carolina. She seeks peace and a return to normalcy as her heart is still reeling, but when a tender-hearted German internee, August, enters her life via her beloved grandparents--her world is up-ended yet again. But this time, instead of the ravages of war and brutality, it just might be upended by the tender pursuit of a man who longs for Jessica to see herself the way the Lord does.

This story delves deep into a heart of someone who's had the rug ripped out from under her. Jessica's wounds are visible on the outside in the form of a limp--but her inner wounds are far more disabling at first. She turns a cold shoulder both to the grace-filled truths from her grandparents, and the deeply beautiful pursuit of August Reinhold. All of which are a magnificent illustration of how patiently and tenderly God pursues our own wayward, hurting hearts. And not in a preachy way--never. There are still quite a few special spark-filled moments that Basham is known and touted for to satisfy the most romantic readers. The wit and humor are perhaps the strongest between this fiery couple as opposed to the first two books in this series. Who knew a badminton scene could be so delightfully on point in the romance department?

This quote, "You're so busy staring at your empty hand, you've failed to see how full the other one is, is," in one sentence, why I adored this novel as much as I did. Such a phrase challenged me when I first read it--because I had been going through quite a bit of loss myself when life ripped the rug out from under me. It takes a truly God-touched author to so poignantly and truthfully deal with loss, the bitterness and anger that comes with it--and weave a story of redemption. Of God restoring to Jessica Ross what she thought she'd never have. Of August Reinhold walking out the love of Christ in every step of the story to Jessica. This story left me changed, and I am eternally grateful. ...more

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Nov 21, 2016 Rebecca rated it it was amazing

"Sometimes God sends a special someone along to love us in a way that mends our scars and our hearts, as none other can."

Jessica Ross is scarred, both inside and out. Although the outward scars have left her with slight physical imperfections, it is the inward scars that threaten to destroy her; the result of brutal war -nurse experiences festering into blisters of anger, bitterness and fear. When she returns to the idyllic small town of Hot Springs, North Carolina to seek refuge, she is incens ...more

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Mar 27, 2017 Becky Smith rated it it was amazing

As with the first 2 books in this series, this third book captured me with the first line, and compelled me to keep reading until I finished it. Pepper Basham’s books are so masterfully written and woven together that they are at the very top of my favorites. There are so many quotes in this book that I LOVE, like: “Scars held power, their lingering sting bleeding into the present.” And “Wounds hollowed her out. Fear prickled the remains.” And: “…grief & anger make us blind. You’re so busy stari ...more

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Apr 20, 2017 Lisa rated it it was amazing

Shelves: inspirational-historical-fiction, finish-the-series

Pepper D Basham is a gifted writer! She can engage the reader in the first chapter and you get so involved in the book it feels like you are right there in the story! Life lessons I learned from the book. Steadfast does not mean the storms end it means there is unshakable safety in the middle of the storm. Gods love stays the same though life falls apart. other parts of the book I enjoyed were the description of Mothers arms are Gods arms in this world.

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Nov 29, 2016 Lori rated it it was amazing

I loved this story! I didn't want to leave them!!!
Pepper has penned another amazing story to which I will have to go back and reread the other 2.
I love her writing style. She has definitely opened my eyes to the many blessings that God bestows upon us every day. Sometimes we are too blind to see them.
There are some favorite sayings of mine throughout the entire book. One of my favorite is I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.
To be reminded of this brings me great joy. I kn I loved this story! I didn't want to leave them!!!
Pepper has penned another amazing story to which I will have to go back and reread the other 2.
I love her writing style. She has definitely opened my eyes to the many blessings that God bestows upon us every day. Sometimes we are too blind to see them.
There are some favorite sayings of mine throughout the entire book. One of my favorite is I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.
To be reminded of this brings me great joy. I know He is there every day waiting for us to come to Him.
Jessica Rossi has a lot to learn and one is that. She has a lot of hurt from the war to health from. She's also most certainly stubborn and refuses to believe that God does love her and He has never left her.
It takes one very special man and family to help her uncover what she has lost. I love August. He's proof of God's unjust love and forgiveness. He's always has a ready smile for everyone and anyone. He has a great outlook for everything because he has Jesus in his heart.
He's kind and witty and a solid rock and my oh my he's has the good looks oh my !!!!!
I'm glad the author has brought David and Catherine back in for Catherine does give Jessica some sound advice on love and plus an evil no gooder who is prejudice against certain ppl.
I love this story because it also has given me a new family to love and cherish.
I like how the Carter family helps those in need and reaches out to share their love.
Grandpa Carter is full of wisdom and love. Just like my own Grandpa was. (My how do I miss him but I will see him again someday)
Granny was pretty special to me too!! She had some sound advice as well. I think it is amazing what our older generations have lived through and the stories they can tell!!!
I really hate to say goodbye to these ppl.
It makes me want to cry!
I did laugh in some places. Pepper does put humor in all the right places where it's needed!
I loved the setting in which the story takes place. Ww1 has many heartaches and sometimes there is joy if we only look in the right place.
The Lord has reasons for what He does. ...more

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Aug 24, 2017 Sadie VanderKodde rated it it was amazing

Pepper Basham is swiftly making her way into my "Favorite Authors" category. I'm continually amazed by her powerful writing. I don't know how many ways I can say that she captivates with her story-telling, character building, and redemptive themes. She is a master at creating believable characters with remarkable chemistry and laugh-out-loud humor while also working in powerful threads of faith. The faith elements go so much deeper than most fluff Christian fiction. This stuff is real and though Pepper Basham is swiftly making her way into my "Favorite Authors" category. I'm continually amazed by her powerful writing. I don't know how many ways I can say that she captivates with her story-telling, character building, and redemptive themes. She is a master at creating believable characters with remarkable chemistry and laugh-out-loud humor while also working in powerful threads of faith. The faith elements go so much deeper than most fluff Christian fiction. This stuff is real and thought provoking. Everything I've read from her leaves me breathless and wanting more. And every time I finish one of her works I think it's my favorite so far. The Thorn Healer is no exception.

I started out wary of a relationship ever developing between Jessica and the German. How could an American ever align herself with a German during World War I? Especially one who has seen the devastation of war firsthand. But, of course, that is exactly the point. Basham drew me in and made me fall in love right along with Jess. Something I appreciate [adore] about Basham's writing is that she avoids the cliche plot lines. At one point in the story, after Jess has overcome much of her distrust, a letter surfaces that frames August for treachery. Immediately, I anticipate that he'll hide the letter from her, they'll fall in love, then the letter will come to light and destroy all the trust she'd built. Their relationship will fall apart for a time until he's proven innocent and they're able to renew their love for each other. But no! Basham surprised me by forgoing that oft-done plot line in favor of something much better (which I won't spoil here). She continually impresses me.

But seriously . . . I say this with every book I read by her . . . who is in charge of the copy editing? Who do I need to call to get on the editing team? The grammar and inconsistencies are so atrocious I'd toss this book in a river if I wasn't so in love with the story. Who do I need to talk to in order to get this girl a better publisher? She deserves top-notch publishing. Somebody get on that!! ...more

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Jan 02, 2019 Bernadette rated it it was amazing

Amazing end to the trilogy!

I would recommend this trilogy to anyone who has a heart. It was beautifully written. You could feel and see the imagery with your minds eye. Each book was very touching. I though my heart would burst with this one. Thank you for this Goodread!

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Dec 07, 2016 Beth Erin rated it it was amazing

Shelves: faithfully-bookish

Full review and excerpt on Faithfully Bookish http://www.faithfullybookish.com/revi...

The Thorn Healer is an engaging and heartfelt story that’s simply packed with nuggets of wisdom and subtle life lessons.

Jessica Ross has experienced the horrors of war and betrayal. Coming home was supposed to help her escape the memories that haunt her but reminders of the war are all around her, even in her tiny mountain town. August Reinhold has hurts of his own but he’s quietly determined to win Jessica’s h ...more

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Aug 18, 2017 Caryl rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2017-challenge

I loved Jessica's fiery personality! It was joy to watch as the Lord took her from brokenness to wholeness. This story is a beautiful reminder that the Lord uses both shadow and light to create a magnificent tapestry of our lives. I so appreciated the spiritual truths woven throughout this amazing story! ...more

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Dec 03, 2016 Fiction Aficionado rated it it was amazing

If you love historical romance and you haven’t discovered Pepper Basham’s Penned in Time series, you are really missing out. Pick any of the books in this series, open its pages, and you will become immersed in the world and lives of its characters, brought to life through writing brimming with imagery to capture your senses and grip your emotions.

The series is set during the First World War, but unlike the previous two novels in the series, this one takes place entirely on American soil. Some If you love historical romance and you haven’t discovered Pepper Basham’s Penned in Time series, you are really missing out. Pick any of the books in this series, open its pages, and you will become immersed in the world and lives of its characters, brought to life through writing brimming with imagery to capture your senses and grip your emotions.

The series is set during the First World War, but unlike the previous two novels in the series, this one takes place entirely on American soil. Some of the background to Jessica’s story takes place in The Thorn Keeper, but if you haven’t read that I don’t think you will be lost here. That said, Thorn Keeper is probably my favourite of the series (but you need to understand that is a very tough call to make!) so I suggest you read it anyway. :-)

At the opening of the novel, Jess’s state of mind can be summed up straight from the novel itself: “Even if she was damaged beyond the use of war or the makings of a wife, even if nightmares stole her sleep and fear ripped at her peace of mind, one place always promised a sense of belonging – the Blue Ridge Mountains.” More than losing her peace of mind, though, she is struggling to trust God and to look to Him for peace. She’s afraid to let go of her grief and bitterness, and her need for justice.

Much of her grievance is attributable to the war – and one German in particular – so she’s not impressed when she arrives home and discovers her grandparents have welcomed August Reinhold, one of the displaced Germans currently ‘imprisoned’ at the Mountain Park Hotel, into their lives and her grandfather’s medical practice. Jess's daddy always said, "It's hard to put out a spitfire." But "life had offered August Reinhold many challenges to overcome, and this one provided the most appealing package."

It is impossible not to fall in love with August. He is swoon-worthy in the best possible way: in his steady, honourable character and his love for Jess. He knows what his heart wants, and what it is up against, but he slowly chips away at Jess’s prejudices against him, proving himself by his actions, one day at a time. There is a particularly beautiful symbolism in the work he does restoring the family chapel and its stained-glass window. And he’s not a bad flirt in his own quiet way, either. :-)

August isn’t the only person God brings into Jess’s life. There’s the young widow, Anna, her daughter, Sylvie, and two other very special children: Jude and Faith. Each of these characters add wonderful depth to the story, and it was lovely to catch up with Dr. David Ross and Catherine Ross from The Thorn Keeper during the story, too.

The beauty of Pepper Basham’s writing is that you really live the transformation with her characters. You feel their struggles, you share those moments when the light breaks through the cracks, and you experience the release when the truth finally breaks through and settles into their soul - even though there are still challenges to be overcome.

You simply cannot read this series without having its characters take up residence in your heart. Do yourself a favour and read the whole series!

I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own. ...more

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Dec 09, 2016 Rachel rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2016-e-reader, read-2016, slb-tours

What an awesome story! This author writes with such a depth of emotion that your heart gets involved in the feelings and lives of the characters! I was hooked the first time I read a book by Pepper D. Basham and she's now an author that I won't hesitate to buy any new book she writes! :)

Jessica Ross is physically and emotionally scarred from the war and the betrayal of a man she thought she could trust. Her prejudice and anger towards all Germans comes from this intense time in her life that rea What an awesome story! This author writes with such a depth of emotion that your heart gets involved in the feelings and lives of the characters! I was hooked the first time I read a book by Pepper D. Basham and she's now an author that I won't hesitate to buy any new book she writes! :)

Jessica Ross is physically and emotionally scarred from the war and the betrayal of a man she thought she could trust. Her prejudice and anger towards all Germans comes from this intense time in her life that really wounded her. She's also lost all faith in God. Her pain is so deep at first that she can't understand how a loving God could allow the things that have happened to her and the things that she has seen in war. But God knows how to draw us back to Him and who He can use to help heal and mend a broken heart. And for Jessica, these people are family and friends in her hometown in the Blue Ridge Mountains as well as the irresistible addition and introduction of three children into her life that will do wonders to help Jessica focus on something other than her pain. Children are great for that.

And, oh, that August! My heart smiled every time I started reading about him. :) But boy does he have his work cut out for him with Jessica! He's one of the despised Germans and has managed to work his way into the lives of her family and friends, much to her dismay. But this German man has a quiet strength, a gentle heart, and a determination to break down Jessica's walls and help heal her heart and lead her back to faith. I mean, who can't help falling for all that swoon-worthy, loving, loyal, Godly determination?!

With lots of supporting characters and historical events, some danger and story-line twists, and wonderful themes of forgiveness, redemption, restoration and healing grace, this story will captivate you from the moment you start reading the first page. Although it is the third book in the series ( and you'll want to read those first two books because they are just that good!), it can be read as a stand-alone.

*Thanks to Singing Librarian Books Tours for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid or required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.* ...more

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Jan 26, 2017 Ian rated it really liked it

Shelves: romance-historical, series, christian-fiction

This is my first Pepper Basham novel and I'm certain it won't be my last. The Thorn Healer is a beautiful love story and demonstrates the power love has to bring healing of past hurts and misconceptions.

The story's two lead characters: Jessica Ross and August Reinhold are wonderfully complex characters who frankly I'd like to meet. Jessica, a nurse, returns home from war suffering from the trauma of ministering to the injured, seeing many die and also being abused by a German officer whom she ha ...more

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Apr 23, 2020 Courtney | Soul of a Librarian rated it it was amazing

What a fantastic way to wrap up this series! There are so many areas where Basham shines in this book--character development, spiritual encouragement, romance for DAYS, and her always impressive ability to capture Appalachia on paper. Jessica and August are dear to me now, along with a whole crew of characters that feel like friends and the blessed ability to revisit some old friends from past books.

This book--and the entire series--is just beautifully done. These characters are well worth the t ...more

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Sep 28, 2017 Michelle Lunsford rated it it was amazing

I enjoyed getting to know Jessica Ross over the course of this series. By introducing this character in book 1, and seeing how vivacious she could be, it made it all the more poignant in this final tale to witness how her experiences serving as a nurse in WWI had brought unhappy changes and deep scars to her heart, mind, and spirit. Which also set up another wonderful story of God's grace and love as we are invited to watch Jessica work through a return to trust in Christ.

Basham has a particular I enjoyed getting to know Jessica Ross over the course of this series. By introducing this character in book 1, and seeing how vivacious she could be, it made it all the more poignant in this final tale to witness how her experiences serving as a nurse in WWI had brought unhappy changes and deep scars to her heart, mind, and spirit. Which also set up another wonderful story of God's grace and love as we are invited to watch Jessica work through a return to trust in Christ.

Basham has a particular talent for creating male characters which are a delightful counterpart to her strong, vibrant female leads. August has, in some ways, just as much headstrong persistence as Jessica. His romantic side displayed a heartwarming flirtation - sometimes subtle and sometimes bold and blatant - mixed with a steady sincerity. August's gentle yet unyielding pursuit of Jessica is a great example of God's own tenacious grace-filled love toward us.

Given how much I adored book 2, it was a treat to get to see Catherine and David Ross again. Nice to see them two years into marriage, with hints that their relationship had grown closer and stronger while still having that playful, passionate spark that was so characteristic of their courtship.

I will admit that one particular plot twist toward the end caught me off guard. It was an interesting author choice, and one I wouldn't have considered, especially since the war was soon coming to an end (although, obviously, the characters would not have known that). I'm not saying it was necessarily out of character for the players in this story, only that it came as such a surprise to me that it did end up drawing me out of the story, if only slightly and momentarily. Still, a very minor observation compared with my overall enjoyment of the book. Like the previous two, Basham manages to weave a moving narrative that connected with me at a deep level, and brought forth authentic emotional responses from laughter to tears. An excellent historical series, and I look forward to sampling some of this author's contemporary stories. ...more

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Nov 27, 2016 Angi G. rated it it was amazing

“The Thorn Healer”, third book in the “Penned in Time” series by Pepper Basham, is the final installment of this wonderful series that takes place during the WW1 era. While the first two books largely take place in battle torn France, Ms. Basham brings this story home to a place that is close to her own heart…the Appalachian Mountains and the tiny town of Hot Springs, NC.

Jessica Ross has come home to the Blue Ridge mountains, needing a place to heal in body, soul, and spirit. Bitter from the war ...more

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Jan 19, 2021 English rated it really liked it

Shelves: have-review-copy

Its been so long since I read the first two novels in this series that I really have forgotten them. This book is obviously suitable to be read as a standalone, purely in light of that.

The Thorn Healer is an excellent story about a female doctor who returns to her grandparents home in the closing stages of the First World War, and has to overcome her fears, hurts and prejudices to accept love and move on with her life.

She's an abuse victim, but in the end, she learns not to let that define her ...more

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Dec 28, 2018 100 Pages per Hour rated it really liked it

I have to be honest and say I didn't love the couple in this book as much :( I still loved the series, but this one didn't grab me as quickly or deeply. ...more

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Jul 12, 2017 Crystal rated it it was amazing

Jessica Ross has returned from serving as a nurse on the front lines in WWI to her hometown of Hot Springs, NC, bearing physical scars, anger, and mistrust after witnessing the horrors of war brought on by the Germans. Much to her disdain, a temporary camp has been set up in town to house German men until the war is over. Although her grandparents have formed a bond with one of the internees- August Reinhold- Jessica is bent on holding onto her bitterness and anger seeing August in the same ligh ...more

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Mar 01, 2017 Kathleen Denly rated it really liked it

Opening Line:

Wounded soldiers returned from war as heroes. Wounded nurses returned as old maids.

First Impressions:

I’ll be honest. While I love the opening line, the beginning of this book didn’t wow me nearly as much as the openings for the first two books did. I just didn’t feel hooked by the first chapter. That’s not to say the writing was dull by any means. It simply didn’t invoke the compulsion to turn pages which I have come to expect from a Pepper D. Basham novel.

Nevertheless, I kept readi ...more

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Sep 23, 2020 Sweet rated it it was amazing

Could be at least 50 pages shorter. But I still love it.

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Nov 20, 2016 Faye rated it it was amazing

The scars of war run deep. Nurse Jessica Ross returns to her hometown to find that not only has it become home to a camp of displaced Germans, but that one of them is her grandfather's assistant. Scarred from what she saw and experienced alongside her brother, David, Jessica is bitter against the people that took so much from her. But when her widowed childhood friend dies in child birth, leaving her children Faith and Jude in Jessica's care, she wonders if she will be able to step up to the dem The scars of war run deep. Nurse Jessica Ross returns to her hometown to find that not only has it become home to a camp of displaced Germans, but that one of them is her grandfather's assistant. Scarred from what she saw and experienced alongside her brother, David, Jessica is bitter against the people that took so much from her. But when her widowed childhood friend dies in child birth, leaving her children Faith and Jude in Jessica's care, she wonders if she will be able to step up to the demands of motherhood.

August Reinhold has fallen in love with Jessica Ross through the letters that she has faithfully sent home to her grandparents. He admires her strength and compassion. He knows that despite her coldness towards him and his German heritage, she is the still the same woman from the letters on the inside, and he is determined to win her heart.

The third book the series, but don't let that stop you, it stands well on its own. I liked that it told the story of coming home from the front from a woman's perspective, as Jessica deals with coming home and finding that home is not how she left it. I loved seeing her grow in her faith, and as person in love and grace as she becomes a mother to Jude and Faith.

People are not all as they seem, and there is a trouble maker framing the displaced Germans, making the townsfolk uneasy that a plot may be afoot. And Jessica finds two men vying for her attentions.

I also loved August's sister, Anna and her daughter Sylvie. Anna is a strong woman, who despite everything is full of hope, and strong sensibility. Cliff is Jessica's cousin, who is like a brother to her. He is kind, and open-hearted.

I liked August's determination and faith, he is an honorable man to the core of his being and he is passionate about what he sets his mind to. He quickly befriends Jessica's new children, but time is quickly running as his time at the camp is drawing to an end.

A well written and characterized read. I loved Jessica and her journey of faith and forgiveness, as she finds herself in a very different position from the one she was in a few months ago, facing the remnants of the battles fought over seas at home. She is a strong woman, who doesn't always like change but finds ways to adjust. There is mystery and suspense as she and August try to prove who is behind the attacks against the Germans. I also really liked the story between Cliff and Anna, as well as getting to see Catherine and David and their young daughter again. A fast paced and engaging romance, filled with tension and faith.

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 it on my blog. Regardless, 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." ...more

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Oct 17, 2016 Gail Hollingsworth rated it it was amazing

The third book in the penned in time series, The Thorn Healer, takes place during WWI. It was very eye-opening regarding the prejudices and lack of modern medicines for the time period. Even though as time marches on and we progress with conveniences and technology, human nature remains sadly the same so it seems.
A group of German soldiers were caught on American soil in the town of Hot Springs at the beginning of the war. They were captured and made to stay inside an encampment behind a fenced The third book in the penned in time series, The Thorn Healer, takes place during WWI. It was very eye-opening regarding the prejudices and lack of modern medicines for the time period. Even though as time marches on and we progress with conveniences and technology, human nature remains sadly the same so it seems.
A group of German soldiers were caught on American soil in the town of Hot Springs at the beginning of the war. They were captured and made to stay inside an encampment behind a fenced in enclosure. The towns people hated and despised them simply because they were German. One of the Germans, August, was allowed to be out during the day because he had medical experience and helped a local doctor. The doctor's granddaughter, Jessica, has arrived back in town after serving as a nurse for two years during the war. She has experienced much death, destruction, and injuries during this time, including for herself a limp and partial hearing loss. And much emotional trauma. She trips and almost falls exiting the train but August is there and catches her. She is immediately attracted to him but that dies as soon as she realizes that he is German.
This novel touched me in the way faith and forgiveness was betrayed through some of the characters. A very good lesson for me today.
The fact that medicine even at the early 20th century was still so primitive was surprising to me. A simple blood transfusion today is so easy and safe but during that time was dangerous and the donor had to be put to sleep with the possibility of not waking up. Thyphoid and influenza were almost death sentences in the really severe cases. You would find nearly everyone walking around in the epidemic areas wearing cloths over their noses and mouths.
But in spite of our progress, we still have prejudice, racism and disease that sometimes is a sure death sentence. Even in Bible times these things were evident. Our human sin nature will remain until the Lord comes back.
It was rewarding to see the progression of these characters throughout the story. And Pepper Basham sure knows how to write heart pounding, swoon-worthy romance. Don't worry, there was plenty of romance included too.
I highly recommend this book, and even though you certainly should want to read the first two books in the series, it's not required to fully understand and enjoy this one.
I received this ebook free to read and was not required to write a review positive or otherwise. ...more

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Dec 31, 2016 Lynda rated it it was amazing

Shelves: keeper-shelf, kindle-books

I love a novel that opens with a quotable, a "truth universally acknowledged," if you will. So when I began Pepper Basham's latest and read the first two lines, I was irrevocably hooked: "Wounded men came home war heroes. Wounded women, spinsters." I expected to be drawn in from the first chapter because I have read her books before and they never disappoint, but after those words, I found it hard to put the book down and my wildest expectations for this book were shattered.

The characters in thi I love a novel that opens with a quotable, a "truth universally acknowledged," if you will. So when I began Pepper Basham's latest and read the first two lines, I was irrevocably hooked: "Wounded men came home war heroes. Wounded women, spinsters." I expected to be drawn in from the first chapter because I have read her books before and they never disappoint, but after those words, I found it hard to put the book down and my wildest expectations for this book were shattered.

The characters in this book really engaged my emotions and sympathies. Perhaps it is because both are wounded and held prisoner by people and things beyond their control. August finds himself in a camp because of his nationality and bad timing while Jessica is held hostage by memories and the actions of a man she thought she could trust. And while the primary characters remain the focus, the secondary ones are also realistic and engaging, especially the children; they spoke to my heart, of a childlike faith and trust in God, even when it seems the worst situation has become reality.

For me, the theme of restoration blessed my soul as I read of another’s brokenness and halting progress toward healing. The picture of broken and scarred things becoming stronger and more beautiful as they are restored under careful hands is a beautiful depiction of God’s care and concern with His world-weary children. The enemy would have us believe we are abandoned, but God is right there, waiting to put us back together again if we will allow it.

I have enjoyed Ms. Basham’s books before, but this one is my favorite so far. Great historical detail and a unique setting provide the backdrop for excellent storytelling. The compelling plot and true to life characters combine with just a hint of mystery and suspense, making for an irresistible romance that I highly recommend to those who enjoy historical romance or stories set during WWI. Really, a reader can’t go wrong with anything written by Pepper Basham and her books are perennial favorites on my own keeper shelf!

I received a free copy of this book from the author but no compensation for this review. I was not required to write a favorable one and the opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
...more

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Dec 09, 2016 Kelly Tyree rated it it was amazing

I cannot say enough good things about The Thorn Healer. It has it all and keeps you engaged from page one until the end.

Jessica is a nurse who served on the front lines during the war. She was injured and abused at the hands of the Germans. She is returning home to her grandparents a broken woman with terrible PTSD symtoms. While she has been away at war, she has maintained contact with her grandparents through letters. She returns home to find her town of Hot Springs has an encampment of Germa I cannot say enough good things about The Thorn Healer. It has it all and keeps you engaged from page one until the end.

Jessica is a nurse who served on the front lines during the war. She was injured and abused at the hands of the Germans. She is returning home to her grandparents a broken woman with terrible PTSD symtoms. While she has been away at war, she has maintained contact with her grandparents through letters. She returns home to find her town of Hot Springs has an encampment of Germans who are being held there. They are non combatants. One of them, August, has won the heart and trust of her grandparents. August has been helping Jessica's grandfather in his medical practice. Jessica is struck by instant attraction she feels for August the minute she meets him but she is bringing home many scars that have been inflicted at the hands of the Germans. All she sees when she looks at August is his German upbringing. While Jessica is at home, God begins to heal Jessica in ways that are not at all what she had planned. She expresses her anger towards August but she finds it hard to stay angry with him. August on the other hand has fallen in love with Jessica through her letters. Now that she is home, he is determined to win her heart.

Jessica becomes a mother to two orphans and finds motherhood to offer healing in a way she could not imagine. God also uses her grandparents constant love and support to heal her wounds. August begins to express his love for Jessica by rebuilding a chapel that holds special meaning for her. Once Jessica and August are able to find the love for one another that God intends, they are kept apart by circumstances of war. Despite that their love continues to grow. They begin to exchange romantic letters until the surprise and wonderful ending.

This was such a great book. I am excited to discover Pepper D. Basham as a author and I intend to read the other books in this series. This book makes you laugh and makes you cry. Worthy of more than five stars. ...more

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Nov 15, 2016 Stacey rated it really liked it

Shelves: clean-fiction, romance, christian-fiction, inspirational, historical, intrigue-mystery-suspense

I was swept away by the finale to the Penned in Time series. Nurse, Jessica Ross, who we have met in The Thorn Bearer as Ashleigh’s friend, and in The Thorn Keeper as David’s sister, is embittered, wounded, and battle weary from her duties in World War I Europe. She’s lost her hearing and mobility, her hope, and much more at the hands of German enemies. Returning to the beautiful Appalachian Mountains in Hot Springs, North Carolina, Jessica seeks the peace and comfort of home. What she finds is ...more

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