Victor's Blessing

by Barbara Sontheimer

Victor Gant, a 6'5" half-Osage blacksmith is an unusual hero for a Civil War love story. But Victor, well liked and respected, is anything but usual. Born into poverty and burdened by his father's past abuses, he betters himself with his intellect and inventions. Despite no formal education he boasts a close friendship with the wealthy banker Ethan. When the town's shy beauty agrees to marry him, Victor's life is truly blessed. But blessings like life itself can be fleeting, and when the Civil war erupts Victor will have to make choices, until finally he is forced to bestow an agonizing blessing of his own.
Meticulously researched for everyday life (rather than battles), Victor's Blessing takes the reader on a journey from quaint Ste. Genevieve Missouri, the patent halls of Washington D.C., the battle of Wilderness, till finally the infamous Andersonville prison. With a bevy of rich male and female characters, that experience the turbulent decade before and after the Civil War, Victor's Blessing is a haunting love story, that seems to whisper the eternal question, is death really the end?

Genres: Book Club, Novels, Historical, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Drama, Contemporary

582 pages, Paperback

First published November 15, 2022

Reviews

[(old.enough.for.fairytales) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this!

I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this as I hadn’t read the synopsis, and I was glad that I went into it blind! This story was both beautiful and absolutely heartbreaking. It was also incredibly informative and I found it very apparent that the author heavily researched this time period, so I felt like I was learning and reading an accurate portrayal of life during the Civil War era.

I loved following the lives of the three main characters. Celena, Victor, and Edward’s stories were full of tragedy, beauty, joy, heartbreak, and hope. I loved reading how they were all intertwined and though I found parts of the book devastating, I also really appreciated that the book ended on a hopeful note. I’d really enjoy a little prologue with an update of these characters’ lives 10-15 years after the ending of the book!

My one critique is that while this book was heavily researched and very informative, it did feel a bit dense at times. I occasionally felt bogged down in details and descriptions, to the point where I forgot where we were and what was happening in the story.

Overall, this was a beautiful historical fiction romance that I would wholeheartedly recommend to lovers of this genre! Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Barbara Sontheimer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elizabeth Peterson – September 11, 2022

Victor’s Blessing was a joy from start to finish. Though filled with heartbreak and disappointment it was also uplifting and satisfying at the end. Celina is a heroine you will not soon forget and Victor is a man ahead of his time, in his thinking and in his actions. This telescopic view into a small town in Missouri leaves readers with a sense that they have lived, if only for a few moments, in that time and place. Wonderful read!

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victor Gant was 10 when he watched his mom labor alone for three days and although he begged his dad to call for the doctor he refused until he finally let him run to get the neighbor she was having a breach birth and by the time the neighbor came to help it was too late the baby died who they named Catherine and soon his O’Sage mother who he loved so much passed away as well. His father Ed Gant was an alcoholic a horrible farmer and when Victor was big enough he went to apprentice with the local blacksmith he would grow to be 65 keep his promise to his mother-in-law to write and read and would eventually amaze a fortune but first he would marry his beloved Selena and when his best friend Eathan comes back from college he’s shows his invention to him and soon their in business together. What Eathan doesn’t tell Victor is that he too is in love with Selena but there is far too much in this book for me to give a blow by blow. So what I will say is this Victor is one of those good guys who everyone knows if you need his help he will be there he loves his wife who he eventually has six boys and one daughter with the property that was left to him upon the death of his mother his dad soul Victor would buy it back for his dear sister Margaret and her new husband who he took care of until she married. There’s many emotional moments in the book that you may need Kleenex for he almost loses Selena and as far as Eathan goes he can only carry his hidden green monster for so long the only problem is it unfortunately comes out when the country is falling apart. Victor lives in Geneva Missouri and when the Civil War breaks out some of his friends join the confederacy and sound like Victor joined the union he has already been fighting the war for months when he finds out his nephew who he is very close to Hank has also joined the army. The only solace he takes is that at least he joined the union. There are many highlights in this book not to mention the great historical accuracy and the picture of the author paints just makes this book so much better this is truly a long book more like a saga but it is so worth reading I love that because it is character driven and not focused on the events and although she mentions them and gives enough detail to know what’s at stake the focuses more on the characters and their troubles and boy do they have some this was a great book and I highly recommend it. I absolutely love historical fiction and love when I get a stellar HF read and that is what victors blessing is. I loved her descriptions of the barn raising the church sermons and every other depiction of the lifelong community that Victor and Selena belonged to because it made such a bigger impact when it started falling apart. This is truly a great book I wish there was someway I could convince you to read it because I absolutely as I said loved it… OK now I’m just repeating myself go and read the book! Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

[Drishty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This superbly written historical novel weaves together Missouri's rich local history, a compelling love story, and an intricately woven plot that keeps readers captivated from start to finish.

Victor Gant is not your typical protagonist for a love story set during the Civil War. At 6'5" and of mixed Osage heritage, he works as a blacksmith and is highly respected by those who know him. Victor had a tough upbringing in poverty, worsened by his father's abusive behavior. However, he has overcome these obstacles through his intelligence and ingenuity, despite having no formal education. His closest friend is a wealthy banker named Ethan. Victor is lucky enough to marry the town's most bashful and attractive woman, which feels like a true blessing. But as with all good things, their happiness may not last forever. When the Civil War breaks out, Victor will have to make some difficult choices. Ultimately, he will be faced with a heart-wrenching decision that will bring both joy and sorrow.

With its richly detailed narrative, extensive research, and fascinating historical context, this book truly comes to life. It not only captivates readers with its intricate plot, but also offers a unique perspective on the Civil War that deepens their understanding of this pivotal moment in American history. By delving into the intricate details of the conflict, readers are sure to gain new insights and a greater appreciation for the complex events that shaped our nation.

This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the full scope and significance of the Civil War.

[Chelsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really really loved this novel and did not want it to end. This book had all the feels and I loved the characters. It was so well written, I really felt I was a part of their lives and felt all the emotions right along with them as we followed them through life and the changes it brought. I also loved how the author wrote it through a few different characters point of view, so you could see how others saw the main characters as well. Although it is quite a heft novel, I did not even realize the length or felt it was too long, if anything I didn't want it to end at all. I thought it was a very interesting read in that the author also had both sides views about slavery and why each one believed they were right while the country was in the midst of war to prove who was stronger and who was right. I really enjoyed reading about the Civil War and how much it really did affect everyone back home, while the men were off fighting. I will recommend this one to every historical fiction reader. Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite, I am not sure I would have found this one otherwise and to the author for the free novel. This one will be kept on my shelves with all of the others I loved and won't ever forget.

[Dawnny · Rating 5 out of 5]

A historical fiction novel set in Missouri before and during the Civil War. Victor is half Osage and grew up poor. He's smart, an inventor and well respected. He marries the love of his life. Once the war erupts it places Victor with some very difficult choices to make. This was an emotional story with some supernatural elements. The historical facts and settings were remarkable. It's a love story, a love triangle and a look back in time during the war. I really enjoyed this. I recommend this for book clubs as it leaves so much to discuss. What a great read.

Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I enjoyed that this was set during the Civil War Era; it’s not a historical period I get to read about often. But what I loved most is that this book centers on the characters more than the events.

Victor Gant was only a boy when he watched his mother die. Although his father was cruel and his mother had been an Osage Indian slave, Victor becomes the respected blacksmith of the community of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri.

The story's heart is about Victor’s love story with Celena, his childhood sweetheart. After they marry, we follow them through the joys and trials of life, births, deaths, and friendships. One such friend is Ethan, who becomes Victor’s business partner and falls in love with Celena.

Set mainly in the years prior to the war, it is not until the latter part of the story that Victor and his family, as well as the country, are faced with heartbreaking choices as the nation is ripped in two.

This is a sweeping and emotional historical romance.
If you love being immersed in characters’ lives and feeling all the range of emotions as you walk alongside them, then pick up 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐁𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 today!


Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours for a spot on tour and a gifted book.

[Soochi Sandhiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

The central character, Victor Gant, is a tall, dark, and conventional hero in this story. You will gravitate towards his warmth even though he had a hard life due to his father's abuse and unsupportive environment. He is relatable to many of us who build our own fortunes with our hard work and intellectual wealth. Even though he lacked formal education, he did not give up on his life and made connections with people on the basis of his kindness and genuineness. He felt ecstatic when a beautiful towngirl entered his life, but when he felt he was complete, the American Civil War changed his scenario. Although it was difficult for him, his resilience made him pick pieces of his life and keep building a beautiful picture.
This is a different kind of love story, more focused on our hero, as he is worth holding onto. The character is well written, relatable, and charming enough to grab attention, and readers would definitely feel an instant connection with him. I was moved by the subplots consisting of war, hardships, and troubles being added one by one to his life. I kept hoping it would turn green again for him; he just had to keep going. Overall, it was an emotionally engaging read. I felt connected with the characters and could feel their pain.

[Thais • tata.lifepages • · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review 3.5 stars!

This was a soul shattering historical romance 💔 What surprised me the most was how lush and descriptive the book was. We get an incredible glimpse of how harsh life was in the civil war era.

Back in the 1850’s in Missouri, life was arduous for the immigrants, Indians, POC and all others marginalised by the wealthy. We follow the story of Victor, who is of part native Osage descent and a Caucasian father. He had to work hard to make a living for himself and his sister and also prove himself as a skilled blacksmith. Victor was also a sort of inventor and he and his best friend, Ethan, manage to get rich investing on Victor’s ideas.

Celena is Victor’s love since a young age, an immigrant’s beautiful daughter that has a good life at her family’s farm. We get to see them live and struggle together, the author does an amazing job portraying the real difficulties of life back in that time period. The descriptions were a bit too long and I believe the book could have been shorter. The story also shows Ethan’s journey through life and the drama that follows it. I found myself crying with emotional moments: at times the book took a darker turn and included some harsh topics (slavery, death, suicide, suffering), but I also found myself rejoicing the happy moments. Overall my favorite element was the writing style which was incredibly well done and the amount of research that went into this book!

Thank you for the author for gifting me a copy for review

[Sarah ⚘]

dnf'd due to sexual content

[Chiara | wordsbychiara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5 stars

Trigger warnings: colonialism, slavery, war, emotional and physical abuse (off page), childbirth and afterbirth, loss of a child, loss of a loved one

VICTOR’S BLESSING is an adult historical fiction set during the years of the American Civil War focused on the love story between the protagonists, Victor and Celena, which spans from the early years of childhood to adulthood. It’s a story filled with ups and downs, but that tugs at your heartstrings thanks to the sincerity of the affection between these two people who, in many ways, couldn’t be more different. If you’re a fan of historical romance—or want to try this genre for the first time—I highly recommend this title!

The characters were the highlight of this book. Victor is so easy to love with his kindness, gentleness, and his desire to help others even if he stands nothing to gain. A true gentle giant with mixed Osage heritage (which I absolutely loved!) Celena was also a very interesting character. She’s different from the modern woman, and at times it made it harder to relate to her thoughts and feelings, but I appreciated how accurately to her time she was written and her growing confidence throughout the novel. While I can’t say this is written as a whirlwind, passionate romance, I was very much invested in the relationship between these twin flames. Celena and Victor have similar goals and ambitions, have complimentary personalities, and their relationship felt real. No spoilers, but I cried because of these two. Not joking.

However, the character that surprisingly stole my heart was Ethan, Victor’s best friend who secretly loves Celena for most of his life. What can I say, I love my tragic boys! And I’m quite pleased he got as close to a happy ending as was possible by the end of the novel.

The romance was definitely the focus, but I perceived the amount of work the author put into her research every time there were historical references, descriptions or even in these characters’ way of life. The author doesn’t shy away from showing the difficulties of life during that time, including instances of physical and emotional abuse, racism, slavery, and the consequences of colonialism on indigenous communities. Though some of these things were difficult to read, they helped me immerse even more deeply into the lives of Victor and Celena. However, I might have been able to enjoy the story even more if it had been 100-150 pages shorter, which could have been achieved by cutting out sections dedicated to secondary characters that didn’t much add, in my opinion, to Victor and Celena’s story.

Thank you to the author for gifting me an e-copy. Opinions are my own.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘That’s our local giant Victor Gant…he may be half savage, but he’s friendly!’ – A memorable novel!

Missouri author Barbara Sontheimer devoted fifteen years studying the history of the Civil War, the customs and racial conflicts of the 19th century, Indian lore, and paranormal ideation preparing for writing VICTOR’S BLESSING. The result – an absolutely compelling novel that opens with a Prologue set in 1839 in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, a small town whose populace included German, French, Spanish settlers and Indians, with a compelling moment with seeds of the entire novel glowing as the eleven year old Victor witnesses his Osage mother impending death during a breach birth as his neighbor friend, six year old Celena, comforts him. Quite adroitly, the author offers shades of insight into the story that follows.

The novel follows the life of Viktor Gant, son of an Osage mother who had been a slave until his alcoholic and abusive French father married her. Viktor had no schooling, working on the farm for his father and eventually as a blacksmith in the town. He achieves success in both his work and his combined efforts with his friend Ethan Stanfield, as well as his marriage to Celena. The world changes when the Civil War erupts and Viktor joins the Union forces, experiencing the horrors of battle and of the imbalance of the country. And as the author distills the drama, ‘Torn between doing what’s best for his family or following his conscience, between keeping promises or following his heart…to finally bestowing an agonizing blessing of his own.’

The lyrical prose that is Sontheimer’s special gift creates a sensitive saga that allows understanding of the era of the Civil War and the period of slavery that was its focus through the lives of the fully realized figures that populate the stage on which this epic unfolds. Beautifully crafted on every level, this is stunning novel that invites thought while providing one of the most sensitive stories about not only the Osage (and other tribes) Indian heritage but also slavery in the history of this country. Successful on many levels and highly recommended.

[Pablo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victor’s Blessing established to me that it would be a great read from the first page. And I was not disappointed at all. Victor is such an unusual hero, and he is thoroughly lovable. And Celena is one of those rare heroines who really does deserve a hero like Victor. Their relationship felt right and it felt meant to be. I have no recollection now who first tempted me to read Victor’s Blessing. If you're out there, thank you.

This is one of those books that seems okayish when you read the jacket (kind of like the first Harry Potter before the movies and before the craze erupted). Then you start reading and you're so completely engrossed that you wonder why you didn't start reading sooner. There is something about these characters that will ignite a passion and interest about them that won't be quenched no matter how many books Barbara writes. Take your time as you read them, you'll be glad that you did.

It may be in the 'romance' section, but it's fantastic (and fantastical) historical fiction of the highest grade. It'll make you blush. You'll burn through it and thank heaven for it being 700+ pages length, but they are so worth reading if you want to know what an excellent, well written book is like. I hardly ever make it through books that are over 400 pages. This one was easy to knock out though!

Barbara's mastery of the time period, including the language and historical facts, make this series educational as well as emotionally rewarding. This book requires a suspension of belief at first, but as soon as you get into them and get to know these characters, you will be hooked. Great historical fiction. I clear away about 3 days of my time and all I do is read. I hole up in my room with water, popcorn and comfy clothes and I just read....don't even sleep. And now I can't wait to read the next one by Barbara.

[Bookish Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Sontheimer's debut novel, Victor's Blessing, is a beautifully written and captivating love story set in the pre-Civil War era.

The story takes place in Ste Geneviève, Missouri, a small town on the Mississippi River, and follows the lives of families who are about to face extraordinary events.

Sontheimer's skillful description of life in the town and the people who inhabit it is extraordinary. Her vivid prose brings the characters to life, making them feel like real people with whom we can relate. The dialogue is particularly impressive, showing the depth of character portrayal, even for the many children who populate the novel.

From the Prologue depicting the death of Victor's mother to the Epilogue where Victor's daughter muses at her parents' gravesite, the novel is a gripping and emotional journey that will stay with the reader long after the book is finished.

What sets Victor's Blessing apart from other historical romances is the way the author has linked three people in a lasting relationship forever. The love story is not just between Victor and his wife, but also between Victor and his best friend Ethan, adding an unexpected and heartwarming twist to the narrative.

Overall, Victor's Blessing is a richly detailed and beautifully written novel that will delight readers who enjoy historical fiction, romance, and strong character development. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of love and friendship, and how these bonds can last a lifetime.

[Shubham Lakhina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review
Title - Victor’s Blessing
Author - Barbara Sontheimer
My Ratings - 4.8/5

Victor's Blessing is a moving and deeply poignant love story set against the backdrop of the American Civil War. The story follows the life of Victor Gant, an unusual hero for a Civil War tale, who is a 6'5" half-Osage blacksmith. Despite his unusual background, Victor is a respected and well-liked member of his community, and he is deeply in love with the town's shy beauty.

The novel is meticulously researched, and the author has done an excellent job of capturing the daily life of the characters, rather than focusing solely on the battles of the Civil War. As a result, the reader is transported to quaint Ste. Genevieve Missouri, the patent halls of Washington D.C., and the infamous Andersonville prison, among other locations.

What sets Victor's Blessing apart from other Civil War stories is the way in which it deals with the eternal question of whether death is really the end. The haunting love story that unfolds in the pages of this novel will stay with readers long after they have finished reading it.

Overall, Victor's Blessing is a beautifully written and well-crafted novel that will appeal to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, as well as those who appreciate a moving and poignant love story. Highly recommended.

[Ishi Mukherjee · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Barbara Sontheimer's debut novel, "Victor's Blessing," readers are transported to the pre-Civil War era in Ste Geneviève, Missouri, a small town nestled alongside the Mississippi River.

The book is a masterfully crafted work of historical fiction that boasts richly detailed and beautifully written prose, as well as strong character development.
Throughout the book, the author masterfully depicts the lives of various families who are on the brink of experiencing life-altering events. Sontheimer's writing is both beautiful and enthralling, painting a vivid picture of the town and its inhabitants. Through her skillful use of prose, she creates characters that feel genuine and relatable, while her realistic and engaging dialogue brings them to life on the page.

It serves as a powerful reminder of the profound significance of love and friendship and their ability to endure throughout a lifetime. Readers who enjoy romance and historical fiction will undoubtedly relish this moving novel.

You will discover new insights that shed light on the complexities of the war, and gain a deeper understanding of the events and people that shaped this pivotal moment in American history.

Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an engaging read, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

[Surbhi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The novel opens with the Prologue, in which the death of Victor's mother is described, and ends with the Epilogue, where Victor's daughter reflects on her parents' graves. In between these bookends, the author tells a poignant love story that brings together three individuals, whose relationship lasts a lifetime. The characters are skillfully drawn, each with their own unique personality, and the numerous children in the story also play important roles. Through lively dialogue, the author provides a deeper understanding of the characters and their connections to each other.

However, Victor is far from ordinary. He was born into poverty and suffered from his father's past abuses, but he overcame these challenges with his intelligence and creativity, inventing new things that impressed even the wealthy banker Ethan, with whom he shared a close friendship. When the town's bashful beauty agreed to marry him, Victor felt truly blessed. However, as with all blessings, they can be short-lived, and when the war breaks out, Victor is faced with difficult choices that will ultimately lead to a heart-wrenching blessing of his own.

This novel is a must-read for those who appreciate a captivating narrative, relatable characters, and exquisite writing. Its compelling plot, emotional depth, and eloquent language make it a perfect choice for anyone who loves a good story.

[Megha Ghosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a captivating Civil War love story that follows the life of Victor Gant, a half-Osage blacksmith who is anything but ordinary. Despite his challenging upbringing and the burden of his father's past abuses, Victor rises above his circumstances through his intellect and inventions, becoming a well-respected and beloved member of his community. When the town's shy beauty agrees to marry him, Victor's life is truly blessed, and it seems that nothing could shake his newfound happiness.

However, as the Civil War erupts and Victor is forced to make difficult choices, his life is forever changed. With meticulous research into everyday life during the Civil War, the reader is taken on a journey from the quaint town of Ste.

What sets Victor's Blessing apart is the unique perspective it offers on the Civil War, focusing not on battles and generals but on the everyday lives of those caught in the crossfire.

Through Victor's eyes, we see the effects of the war on both sides of the conflict and how it tore families and communities apart. But amidst the chaos and devastation, Victor's love for his wife and his unwavering sense of morality shine through.

Victor's Blessing is a true masterpiece of historical fiction, a must-read for anyone interested in the Civil War or simply looking for a captivating and moving love story.

[Walkwitha_book · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am always up for such novels. It’s where the heart strikes the local cords and connect it with the strings. A historical read embedded with love story, that to be beautiful.

This book is a compelling Civil War tale that weaves an intricate love triangle, exploring themes of passion, torment, betrayal, and the complex emotion of forgiveness. The unexpected hero, Victor Gant, rises from the son of an Osage slave to a respected blacksmith in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri. His friendship with the educated and wealthy Ethan takes a tumultuous turn when they enlist in the Union army. As secrets unravel, Victor must tackle with conflicting promises, leading to a blessing that tests the boundaries of honor and decency. The author skillfully captures the nuances of human relationships in this specific narrative. What will happen next ? That’s the twist.

This book masterfully weaves together a tapestry of emotions, showcasing the intricate dance between love, betrayal, and the profound struggle for forgiveness. The author crafts a compelling narrative that captivates readers, inviting them to reflect on the intricate web of choices that shape our destinies. This is a long, long read but you’ll enjoy it. The writing style is fantastic with specific characters playing different roles. Go and order your copy now !

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a historical fiction novel with the bulk of the time period being between 1849 to 1867. It’s set mainly in a Ste. Genevieve, Missouri.

It’s a beautifully written book about a semi love triangle, family drama, and friendship. Victor and Ethan are best friends and business partners. Ethan is in love with Victor’s wife, Celena. Celena only has eyes for Victor.

All three main characters are lovely. Victor is an impressive figure at 6’5”. He also has taken his humble beginnings and become a wealthy businessman after inventing two items both dealing with transportation. Ethan is a tortured rich kid whose father is mean and spiteful. Celena is beautiful and kind and can run a household with 7 kids like it’s child’s play.

As you can see from the dates, the Civil War is going on during part of this read and it is a turning point of the story.

I don’t really want to say more because this is such a great book that I don’t want to give any of the plot or details away.

I will say this was my first cry of 2023 and there is a hint of the paranormal which was timed just right. Barbara described life during that time in such a way I was totally absorbed in the people and places. It also made the ending hard for me because I became attached to these three characters.

[Srija Shwetangi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Sontheimer's VICTOR'S BLESSING is a captivating work of historical fiction set in a small town along the Mississippi River before the Civil War.

The author's talent for capturing the essence of life in that era and location is extraordinary, and her characters are portrayed in a realistic and sincere way, making their interactions and relationships feel genuine and heartfelt.

The novel's dialogue is particularly well-crafted, imbuing the characters' conversations with a level of authenticity that is rarely seen in historical fiction. The exchanges between Victor and Ethan are especially noteworthy, as they struggle with conflicting emotions and loyalties. Sontheimer's depiction of the romance between Victor and Margaret is also exquisitely executed, conveying the evolution and complexity of their love over time.

This is a stunning literary accomplishment, presenting a panoramic view of the characters' lives while also intimately exploring their personal experiences and relationships.

This is a book that encompasses a vast scale of events while also providing an intimate and profound insight into the lives and interconnections of its characters.

Whether you're a casual reader or an avid bookworm, this book is a must-read.

[Bandyopadhyay S · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Victor's Blessing" by Barbara Sontheimer is a book that is sure to captivate and delight readers.

The Prologue, which describes the death of Victor's mother, and the Epilogue, in which Victor's daughter ponders her parents' graves, bookends a touching love story that unites three individuals in a relationship that lasts forever.

The author masterfully depicts characters with distinct personalities, including the numerous children who play prominent roles in the story. The dialogue is lively, providing insight into the characters and their relationships.

The author's skill in depicting the intricacies and nuances of daily life in a small town on the Mississippi River, during a time of great social and political upheaval, is truly noteworthy. Through vivid and evocative descriptions, the author paints a rich and multi-dimensional portrait of the town and its inhabitants, providing the reader with a deep and intimate understanding of the community.

Sontheimer's writing is both elegant and accessible, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in the world she has created.

With its engaging characters, heartfelt story, and beautiful prose, this novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good story.

[Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a romance book, but I haven't delved too much into the historical genre. This book was enjoyable but quite different from what I am used to.

There was a lot of information, which is good as it proves that thorough research was put into it, but it made me skim over it sometimes. However, I did learn quite a bit about the time period, and I always tell myself that if I learn something from a book, then it is a good book.

The book revolves around three main characters. Victor, Celena, and Edward. Victor had a difficult childhood but overcame it through his own strength and determination. He gets married to Celena, who is portrayed as the shy yet the most beautiful woman in town. His best friend is Ethan, a wealthy banker Ethan (literally love-triangle vibes).

The emotional dynamics between these characters become more complicated as they deal with the challenges of the Civil War. Their journey of self-discovery during this difficult time is engaging and pulls readers into their struggles and dreams. The author does a great job of mixing romance with historical elements, making it an interesting read. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a romance set in history, as it is both entertaining and insightful.

[Shreya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barbara Sontheimer's VICTOR'S BLESSING is a sweeping and emotive historical novel that transports readers back to the pre-Civil War era in small-town Missouri. Sontheimer's skill as a writer is evident from the very first pages, as she describes the death of Victor's mother with such depth and pathos that the reader is immediately drawn into the world of the novel.

Throughout the book, Sontheimer's attention to detail and mastery of character development are on full display. The small town of Ste Geneviève comes to life through her vivid descriptions of its inhabitants, from the wealthy plantation owners to the hardworking farmers.

What sets VICTOR'S BLESSING apart from other historical novels is Sontheimer's ability to balance the epic sweep of the story with the intimate emotions of the characters.

The novel is both a grand romance and a nuanced exploration of the complexities of human relationships.

The ending is both surprising and satisfying, a fitting conclusion to a story that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page.

[Shreya · Rating 5 out of 5]

"VICTOR'S BLESSING by Barbara Sontheimer is an absolute delight to read.

The author's skill in capturing the essence of life in a small town on the Mississippi River in the pre-Civil War era is truly remarkable. The characters are fully realized and their interactions and relationships are both genuine and deeply felt.

The novel is also a masterclass in dialogue. The characters speak with an authenticity and naturalism that is rare in historical fiction. The conversations between Victor and Ethan are particularly well done, as they grapple with their conflicting emotions and loyalties. The romance between Victor and Margaret is also beautifully rendered, with Sontheimer showing the way that their love grows and changes over time.

Overall, VICTOR'S BLESSING is a remarkable achievement. It is a novel that is both epic in scope and deeply personal in its portrayal of the lives and relationships of its characters.

[Theo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victor's Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer is a tale set during the Civil War era, but it's not your typical war story. It doesn’t focus on the battlefields. No, instead it focuses on the regular people who are living through those difficult times.
Victor Gant, is the main protagonist in this novel. His journey, is about personal growth, innovation, and resilience in the face of adversity, it was inspiring and heart-wrenching.
It’s a story of love, loss, redemption and forgiveness, and as well as telling the emotional journeys of the characters, it also provided a wealth of historical facts that i knew nothing about until i began reading, so i guess it was educational too!
It's definitely a story that stayed with me long after I’d finished reading. The author has written a novel that was an absolute pleasure to read, and it’s definitely a significant contribution to the genre. Highly recommended for people who appreciate historical fiction and a compelling human story.

[Rajnish Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well versed love story set in a different zone

I am fond of love stories, and when they involve extreme conditions like war, it makes them more interesting for me.

The main character, Victor Gant, is our conventional hero, tall and dark-skinned with a heroic personality, just like his mannerisms and virtues. He is a man of his words and has shaped himself out of crucial and unwelcoming life situations. He had a troublesome past, yet he believed he could make bright future for himself. He designs his life the way he wants, and it takes a beautiful turn with love and romance when a beautiful town girl enters his life.

Just when he thinks everything is perfect, the American Civil War forces him to leave for the country and serve away from his love. How this will change his life or how this helps in his growth is worth reading.

The writer has done an applaudable job by drafting such a beautiful story with a realistic approach. This was a well-versed, romantic read for me.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victor’s Blessing begins in a little farming community in Missouri; which came to young Victor’s aid when his Osage mother died. They knew his drunkard father would not be of any assistance to Victor and his sister. With his height and sheer strength, Victor made a name for himself as he helped everyone around him. Over time, it seemed that Victor was successful at everything he set out to do. When he signed up to join the Civil War, everyone expected him to come home.   

You would never know that Victor’s Blessing is a debut novel. The characters are well-developed and realistic. The love Victor has for Celena is intense, and his friendship withstands trials. Barbara Sontheimer opens a world of love, trauma, and forgiveness. When death was more common, these people continued to open their hearts, giving hope to the reader. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to anything else this author writes.  

[SRodeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This historical romance had me hooked from the get-go. It's set in Missouri in the 1850s, right in the middle of a Civil War. Victor, a blacksmith of Osage roots, and his sweetheart Celena are the heart of the story. They navigate life's ups and downs and the struggles of that era, including discovering their own identities and dreams. This story explores the joys and love of friendship, and the bitterness and hurt of betrayal. The dynamic between Victor, Ethan and Celena will keep readers with their head in the book from start to finish. Sontheimer created even more depth within the story as she was impressively able to give us insights into the lives of side characters whilst still keeping the main focus on out main character. This book had me grinning at the pages one minute and shedding tears the next. The writing was beautifully complex, like Sontheimer had reached into a history book and pulled it to life. An incredible read, I highly recommend it.

[Minesh Patel · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Victor's Blessing" is a book that remind’s us that history isn't just about the dates and the big names but about the real lives of people who lived through those times. Imagine laughing, crying, and getting oddly invested in the life of a man you'd never heard of before. Victor, a half-Osage blacksmith with a big heart is indeed that man.

His life and the lives of Celena and Edward are intertwined in a complex love triangle, experiencing love, heartache, joy and tragedy.

Well written, full of drama, love , intrigue, romance, society, guilt, and loss. Such an exceptional story to curl up with and enjoy. I look forward to reading a lot more by this author. Sontheimer is a great storyteller, and she crafts a story that is believable and unforgettable. It is a story that will linger with you.