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A More Perfect Union #3
Samantha's Secret
"Betty Bolte transports readers back to a time where fear and uncertainty mingled with the peace and beauty of a New America." ~Verified Amazon Review
Modern Medicine Challenged Durring the Revolutionary War, Midwife Confronts Doctor in SAMANTHA'S SECRET by Betty Bolte
Charleston, South Carolina, december 1782
Midwife and healer, Samantha McAlester returns from the front lines to find Charles Town under British siege and the town's new doctor at war with its citizens.
Dr. Trent Cunningham intends to build a hospital staffed solely with educated doctors. What he doesn't need is a raven-haired charlatan spooning out herbs and false promises to his patients, while tempting him at every turn.
Then a mutual friend develops a mysterious infection. Trenton is stumped. Samantha suspects the cure but knows treatment will expose her long-guarded secret, risking all she holds dear... including Trenton.
PUBLISHER'S NOTE:
Betty Bolte is known for her detailed research and true-to-period imagery. Her work delights readers who appreciate a historical experience with strong female characters. This story does NOT contain vulgar language and DOES include mildly explicit sexual situations. We hope you enjoy it!
REVIEWS:
"There was a whole lot to love about this historical romance – a strong heroine, a determined hero, and a nice glimpse of the past that was told through the story. " ~Em & M Books
"The writing is wonderful. The storyline is compelling. The danger will keep you apprehensive until the very end. The female characters are intelligent, creative, loyal and strong." ~Laura S. Reading
A MORE PERFECT UNION SERIES, in order:
Emily's Vow
Amy's Choice
Samantha's Secret
Evelyn's Promise
Modern Medicine Challenged Durring the Revolutionary War, Midwife Confronts Doctor in SAMANTHA'S SECRET by Betty Bolte
Charleston, South Carolina, december 1782
Midwife and healer, Samantha McAlester returns from the front lines to find Charles Town under British siege and the town's new doctor at war with its citizens.
Dr. Trent Cunningham intends to build a hospital staffed solely with educated doctors. What he doesn't need is a raven-haired charlatan spooning out herbs and false promises to his patients, while tempting him at every turn.
Then a mutual friend develops a mysterious infection. Trenton is stumped. Samantha suspects the cure but knows treatment will expose her long-guarded secret, risking all she holds dear... including Trenton.
PUBLISHER'S NOTE:
Betty Bolte is known for her detailed research and true-to-period imagery. Her work delights readers who appreciate a historical experience with strong female characters. This story does NOT contain vulgar language and DOES include mildly explicit sexual situations. We hope you enjoy it!
REVIEWS:
"There was a whole lot to love about this historical romance – a strong heroine, a determined hero, and a nice glimpse of the past that was told through the story. " ~Em & M Books
"The writing is wonderful. The storyline is compelling. The danger will keep you apprehensive until the very end. The female characters are intelligent, creative, loyal and strong." ~Laura S. Reading
A MORE PERFECT UNION SERIES, in order:
Emily's Vow
Amy's Choice
Samantha's Secret
Evelyn's Promise
- GenresRomance
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2015
46 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Betty Bolté
40 books253 followersWhen I sit down to write, the goal for my historical stories is to bring the lives of people in the past to life for my readers. I write both historical and contemporary stories featuring strong, loving women and brave, compassionate men. No matter whether the stories are set in the past or the present, I love to include a touch of the paranormal. In addition to romantic fiction, I've written several nonfiction books, and earned a Master of Arts in English in 2008. I'm a member of Romance Writers of America, the Historical Novel Society, the Women’s Fiction Writers Association, and the Authors Guild. Find out more about me at www.bettybolte.com.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
March 12, 2015
In this 3rd book, also my favorite, the group end up back in town. But Ben's injury takes a turn for the worse. Samantha and the new doctor both take on the challenge of saving him, although they have major differences of opinions. And to top it off, Samantha finds out her parents are on the British's side, which means all of their property will be taken. So while trying to save Ben, Samantha starts having her doubts about her healing talents. Trent, the new doctor, is attracted to Samantha, but being a man of science he can't help but believe her ways don't work and keeps saying so to her. When any time Samantha breaks down, he is always there for her, even to come when she calls because she can't save a patient. Can the two work together to save Ben, and maybe have a happily ever after?? Or will Samantha's secret be enough to keep them apart????
December 8, 2020
Samantha's Secret is the third book in the series, and I have to say it is probably my favorite so far. Samantha is a midwife and healer, and Trent is the doctor. What follows is a wonderful story, as these two each try to do what they are good at. I would recommend this book to others, I received a copy of the book in a Facebook giveaway where I received all four book, I am under no obligation to leave a favorable review and all opinions are my own
February 16, 2017
A melancholic story with a happy ending, Samantha's Secret moved at a fairly slow pace. The book dealt with issues that we face today even though the setting was during the Revolutionary War in about 1790. Decisions made for the sake of expediency generally come back to bite one as many of the citizens of Charles Town found out when they decided to swear allegiance to Britain during the occupation by the British army. When it came time for the return of American rule, those same citizens found themselves losing everything they tried to hold onto, losing the respect of their friends and neighbours into the bargain. The second issue is the one that faces us today, namely the benefits of conventional medicine over traditional practices. Dr Trent Cunningham believes in science, even though the science of the day was deeply flawed. Samantha McAlester takes her healing craft seriously, having observed and studied under her mother as well as from the Indians who saved her life.When Dr Trent and Samantha find themselves treating the same patient, two ideologies clash. In that aspect, the war still rages today between scientific and traditional medicine and it is up to the patient to choose which path they will follow. My own experience is that it doesn't have to be all or nothing.
The story is sad in that Samantha, being the sensitive and caring person that she is, is faced with failure and loss at every turn. She is keeping secrets and when in the interests of honesty and openness, admits to her past experiences she is appalled to find that her friends take a step away from her rather than giving her acceptance. Dr Trent is arrogant and dismissive of her arts, until he realises the effect of his words and recognises her abilities and experiences. Certainly, their joint patient makes both of them realise that they need the skills of the other to succeed.
A well written book, however it did leave me feeling sad. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
The story is sad in that Samantha, being the sensitive and caring person that she is, is faced with failure and loss at every turn. She is keeping secrets and when in the interests of honesty and openness, admits to her past experiences she is appalled to find that her friends take a step away from her rather than giving her acceptance. Dr Trent is arrogant and dismissive of her arts, until he realises the effect of his words and recognises her abilities and experiences. Certainly, their joint patient makes both of them realise that they need the skills of the other to succeed.
A well written book, however it did leave me feeling sad. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
May 6, 2015
4 stars
This is the third book in this series and the story of how Samantha and Trent fall in love. Again in this book you get to read more about the characters from the first two book in the series. You get to learn more about Samantha's past and the reason why she made her vow to not marry in the first book. Samantha is the town midwife and healer. Trent has just finished school and moved back. he plans to bring his new medical skills to town and open a hospital. The first time he sees Samantha he is taken with her. However his plan for the towns medical needs will basically put Samantha out of work. They must come together to help heal Ben. At first they continually but heads but eventually they find a tentative peace with each for Ben's benefit. Trent seems to but his foot in his mouth more often than not when it comes to Samantha. He must find a way to show her how he feels about her and make her believe. Will Trent realize that there is room for both his medical ways and Samantha's in town? That one is not better than the other and they both have their uses? There is so much to Samantha's character. She has been through so much that no one knows about. She keeps her feelings very close to her and doesn't really open up about herself to anyone. Then there is also Samantha's parents that add to Samantha's worries. Samantha is totally taken by surprise by the why she feels about and responds to Trent. She doesn't believe he is interested in her at first and is determined not to do anything about her feelings for him. I can't wait to see if there is going to be another book in this series, maybe about Amy's sister Evelyn. This series pulls you in over the course of the books. It was a little slow at first but then you are completely pulled in over the course of the series. The book is well written and the characters are engaging. I would love to read what happens in the town now that the British have left. The books are about more than just the characters and how they fall in love. You are also reading about the change that is happening in the town and how the war changed things. Betty hints that there may be another book at the end of this one and i really hope there will be.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
This is the third book in this series and the story of how Samantha and Trent fall in love. Again in this book you get to read more about the characters from the first two book in the series. You get to learn more about Samantha's past and the reason why she made her vow to not marry in the first book. Samantha is the town midwife and healer. Trent has just finished school and moved back. he plans to bring his new medical skills to town and open a hospital. The first time he sees Samantha he is taken with her. However his plan for the towns medical needs will basically put Samantha out of work. They must come together to help heal Ben. At first they continually but heads but eventually they find a tentative peace with each for Ben's benefit. Trent seems to but his foot in his mouth more often than not when it comes to Samantha. He must find a way to show her how he feels about her and make her believe. Will Trent realize that there is room for both his medical ways and Samantha's in town? That one is not better than the other and they both have their uses? There is so much to Samantha's character. She has been through so much that no one knows about. She keeps her feelings very close to her and doesn't really open up about herself to anyone. Then there is also Samantha's parents that add to Samantha's worries. Samantha is totally taken by surprise by the why she feels about and responds to Trent. She doesn't believe he is interested in her at first and is determined not to do anything about her feelings for him. I can't wait to see if there is going to be another book in this series, maybe about Amy's sister Evelyn. This series pulls you in over the course of the books. It was a little slow at first but then you are completely pulled in over the course of the series. The book is well written and the characters are engaging. I would love to read what happens in the town now that the British have left. The books are about more than just the characters and how they fall in love. You are also reading about the change that is happening in the town and how the war changed things. Betty hints that there may be another book at the end of this one and i really hope there will be.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
February 21, 2017
This is a dramatic and traumatic story with some romance. I have to say that I do not like Trent at all. He is pompous, condescending and unfeeling. I do love Samantha though. She is sweet, strong and brave. The storyline is interesting, it shows a glimpse of all the changes, good and bad, that happened right after the revolutionary war ended.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
April 26, 2015
There was a whole lot to love about this historical romance – a strong heroine, a determined hero, and a nice glimpse of the past that was told through the story. There was also a great cast of supporting characters that added additional depth to the story and circumstances. I really enjoyed the way that the events of the time were woven in to the story, showing the challenges that had to be faced every day, and it was interesting seeing the struggles that the citizens of a new nation faced, no matter where their loyalties were.
Samantha was a wonderful heroine. She was strong, independent, committed, and not afraid to do what she felt was right, but she was also vulnerable, insecure, and uncertain of her future. Her commitment to her healing and midwife practice and her desire to improve her methods and learn from others was a true testament of her passion. When the new doctor comes to town and seems to belittle her practice at every turn, rather than stand down, she constantly challenges him, ensuring the patient’s desires are honored and also asking questions as a way to improve her own methods.
Even though Trent and Samantha were at odds over their methods, their attraction was something that sizzled beneath the surface every time they were together. With their being at odds over patient care, methods, and treatment, and the fact that Trent’s plans for a new hospital will severely limit Samantha’s ability to earn a living as a midwife and healer, it was hard to believe that these two would ever be able to work together, never mind engage in any type of relationship.
When you add on the fact that Samantha is dealing with the abandonment of her loyalist parents, as well as the secret that she has kept, this book keeps you turning the pages to see if and how there could ever be a happy ever after for Samantha.
This was an enjoyable read that played on your emotions while telling a tale of friendships, loyalty, independence, and love.
I received a copy of this book from the author/tour host for an honest review.
Samantha was a wonderful heroine. She was strong, independent, committed, and not afraid to do what she felt was right, but she was also vulnerable, insecure, and uncertain of her future. Her commitment to her healing and midwife practice and her desire to improve her methods and learn from others was a true testament of her passion. When the new doctor comes to town and seems to belittle her practice at every turn, rather than stand down, she constantly challenges him, ensuring the patient’s desires are honored and also asking questions as a way to improve her own methods.
Even though Trent and Samantha were at odds over their methods, their attraction was something that sizzled beneath the surface every time they were together. With their being at odds over patient care, methods, and treatment, and the fact that Trent’s plans for a new hospital will severely limit Samantha’s ability to earn a living as a midwife and healer, it was hard to believe that these two would ever be able to work together, never mind engage in any type of relationship.
When you add on the fact that Samantha is dealing with the abandonment of her loyalist parents, as well as the secret that she has kept, this book keeps you turning the pages to see if and how there could ever be a happy ever after for Samantha.
This was an enjoyable read that played on your emotions while telling a tale of friendships, loyalty, independence, and love.
I received a copy of this book from the author/tour host for an honest review.
April 19, 2015
I strongly suggest you read this series in order; not only because the books follow one another with no lapse of time, but because you will want to get to know the background and personalities of each of these strong female friends. This trilogy is an adventurous exploration of life in an occupied seaside city during the final months of the Revolutionary War.
It is a historical romance and also a mystery.
The human interest elements will make you examine your own thinking and opinions. A story of challenges, both physical and spiritual,
conflicting beliefs and changing times.
In the first book, the three best friends made a vow to remain single and self supporting, unless of course each found love with a worthy man.
The men around them were swoon worthy in many respects but did any value a wife as an equal? In those times a wife was a possession and marriage was a business proposition, binding families was a financial and social move.
Along with the romantic aspects of the books, much is told about life during time of war. Again it relates to financial and familial along with political and the dangers inherent to the close proximity of conflicting military services. Persons of the upper class became spies since no one expected it of them. Much of this happens in the first two books of this 5 star trilogy.
This third book focuses on Samantha and her quickly changing situation.
Her skills as a healer are being criticized. A modern doctor has arrived in the city. Her best friends have gotten betrothed. Her parents are loyalists and likely will leave for England. An unmarried woman can not own property so she will lose her healing garden. How is Samantha to survive and move forward?
The writing is wonderful. The storyline is compelling.
The danger will keep you apprehensive until the very end.
The female characters are intelligent, creative, loyal and strong.
I did receive this series as part of a blog tour but the reviews and reading enjoyment are my own pleasure and opinions.
It is a historical romance and also a mystery.
The human interest elements will make you examine your own thinking and opinions. A story of challenges, both physical and spiritual,
conflicting beliefs and changing times.
In the first book, the three best friends made a vow to remain single and self supporting, unless of course each found love with a worthy man.
The men around them were swoon worthy in many respects but did any value a wife as an equal? In those times a wife was a possession and marriage was a business proposition, binding families was a financial and social move.
Along with the romantic aspects of the books, much is told about life during time of war. Again it relates to financial and familial along with political and the dangers inherent to the close proximity of conflicting military services. Persons of the upper class became spies since no one expected it of them. Much of this happens in the first two books of this 5 star trilogy.
This third book focuses on Samantha and her quickly changing situation.
Her skills as a healer are being criticized. A modern doctor has arrived in the city. Her best friends have gotten betrothed. Her parents are loyalists and likely will leave for England. An unmarried woman can not own property so she will lose her healing garden. How is Samantha to survive and move forward?
The writing is wonderful. The storyline is compelling.
The danger will keep you apprehensive until the very end.
The female characters are intelligent, creative, loyal and strong.
I did receive this series as part of a blog tour but the reviews and reading enjoyment are my own pleasure and opinions.
April 21, 2015
Charles Town, SC, 1782.
A midwife and healer, Samantha is resourceful and dynamic, respected in the community. She's devoted to her parents, friends, patients, profession and country. She's happy the British are leaving. Until she learns her beloved parents must leave, as well! They are loyal to England . Her closest friends are about to be married. There is no other family. Added to this strife are the secrets she's kept to herself that eat at her heart!
Trent, a medical doctor, moved into town recently. He meets Samantha and learns her profession. He's arrogant and belittles her untrained medical practices every chance he gets! Can Samantha hold up under this added pressure? And more angst ahead!
A wonderful story, told in a delightful style. Ms. Bolte mixes drama with humor and hope with despair to provide a well written, emotionally fulfilling tale.
I received this book free for honest review.
A midwife and healer, Samantha is resourceful and dynamic, respected in the community. She's devoted to her parents, friends, patients, profession and country. She's happy the British are leaving. Until she learns her beloved parents must leave, as well! They are loyal to England . Her closest friends are about to be married. There is no other family. Added to this strife are the secrets she's kept to herself that eat at her heart!
Trent, a medical doctor, moved into town recently. He meets Samantha and learns her profession. He's arrogant and belittles her untrained medical practices every chance he gets! Can Samantha hold up under this added pressure? And more angst ahead!
A wonderful story, told in a delightful style. Ms. Bolte mixes drama with humor and hope with despair to provide a well written, emotionally fulfilling tale.
I received this book free for honest review.
May 14, 2015
In this 3rd book, also my favorite, the group end up back in town. But Ben's injury takes a turn for the worse. Samantha and the new doctor both take on the challenge of saving him, although they have major differences of opinions. And to top it off, Samantha finds out her parents are on the British's side, which means all of their property will be taken. So while trying to save Ben, Samantha starts having her doubts about her healing talents. Trent, the new doctor, is attracted to Samantha, but being a man of science he can't help but believe her ways don't work and keeps saying so to her. When any time Samantha breaks down, he is always there for her, even to come when she calls because she can't save a patient. Can the two work together to save Ben, and maybe have a happily ever after?? Or will Samantha's secret be enough to keep them apart???
February 7, 2017
I received a copy of this book from ebook discovery in exchange for an honest review.
Set at the end of the War of Independence this story, though it can be read as a stand alone, the background from the first two in the series will give more background to the characters involved. The choices our heroine Samantha has to make and what happens around her through the book may cause a tear or two but there are also a few smiles along the way.
Although her world is about to change drastically with the end of the war a new doctor in town seems to be constantly in her face and discounting her herbal cures as backward as best.
Set at the end of the War of Independence this story, though it can be read as a stand alone, the background from the first two in the series will give more background to the characters involved. The choices our heroine Samantha has to make and what happens around her through the book may cause a tear or two but there are also a few smiles along the way.
Although her world is about to change drastically with the end of the war a new doctor in town seems to be constantly in her face and discounting her herbal cures as backward as best.
August 26, 2015
This is the third book in the series and my favorite. I love Samantha and Dr. Trent. What happens when a folk medicine healer and a doctor with modern techniques collide? Well, love if course!!!
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June 15, 2016Read for Maggie Awards
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews