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A More Perfect Union #2
Cobalt Skies: A More Perfect Union - Book Two
Samuel Hickman volunteered to fight for his country and talked his younger brother into joining him. They’d ridden for honor and glory. The realities of war, however, convinced Hick to avoid people and their entanglements.
Susannah Piper lost everyone she loved in the war, her Confederate father and brothers, and even her Yankee husband. Left with only her thick Georgia drawl and a contrary mule, her sights are set on the state of Oregon—as far from the battlefields and prejudices as she can get.
But when Susannah arrives in desperation at Hick’s camp one dark night, even he can’t turn her away. He’s heading to Wyoming, not Oregon, but it’s in the right direction, and Susannah doesn’t plan on being left behind. The resulting clash of North and South may spark another type of civil war.
Susannah Piper lost everyone she loved in the war, her Confederate father and brothers, and even her Yankee husband. Left with only her thick Georgia drawl and a contrary mule, her sights are set on the state of Oregon—as far from the battlefields and prejudices as she can get.
But when Susannah arrives in desperation at Hick’s camp one dark night, even he can’t turn her away. He’s heading to Wyoming, not Oregon, but it’s in the right direction, and Susannah doesn’t plan on being left behind. The resulting clash of North and South may spark another type of civil war.
272 pages, Paperback
Published January 9, 2023
106 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Pegg Thomas
28 books620 followersPegg Thomas lives in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with Michael, her husband of *mumble* years. She creates American stories with real history and fictional characters inspired by her ancestors who immigrated here in the early 1600s.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 16, 2024
1867 Missouri, Nebraska and Wyoming
Really enjoyed this second of the series! Samuel Hickman "Hick" is a former Union soldier heading west to raise horses and be alone. He doesn't want anyone to rely on him. Georgian Susannah Piper is a widow also traveling west. She wants to find a place that will accept her for who she is...a southerner that married a Union soldier.
Their journey begins in Kansas City. I love the way their romance blossoms. Ever so slowly and realistically. Along the way, Samuel and Susannah shown their love for humans and animals alike.
Dashes of humor throughout the novel. Mule Peaches dislike of Samuel was the source of some of this.
Learned some new historical details in the pages.
Look forward to book three.
Really enjoyed this second of the series! Samuel Hickman "Hick" is a former Union soldier heading west to raise horses and be alone. He doesn't want anyone to rely on him. Georgian Susannah Piper is a widow also traveling west. She wants to find a place that will accept her for who she is...a southerner that married a Union soldier.
Their journey begins in Kansas City. I love the way their romance blossoms. Ever so slowly and realistically. Along the way, Samuel and Susannah shown their love for humans and animals alike.
Dashes of humor throughout the novel. Mule Peaches dislike of Samuel was the source of some of this.
Learned some new historical details in the pages.
Look forward to book three.
November 1, 2022
Adventurous, poignant, and rich in historical detail, Cobalt Skies takes you across the Midwest with a cast of tough but lovable characters. Divided loyalties are tested during a tumultuous time of reconstruction and healing, but Hick and Cooter offer a perfect balance of wit and chivalry. If you enjoy a well-written tale of sacrifice, tenderness, and overcoming the odds, Cobalt Skies is for you.
February 11, 2023
Wow! What a captivating story which takes place following the end of the Civil War. This is Samuel Hickman ("Hick") and Susannah Piper's story as well as the many interesting characters they encounter along the trail headed west. The is a story with twists and turns, hate, courage, loss, grief, misunderstandings, mistrust, disease, storms, healing, and hope. The author has done an outstanding job of weaving many historical facts in the story without them being over powering. I highly recommend this story; I know you will enjoy it as much as I did.
February 26, 2023
Another great story by Peggy Thomas
I've learned its always a good story if Peggy Thomas wrote it. This is the story of Susannah Piper a southern widow whose late Yankee husband died in Missouri on their way to Oregon. She meets Samuel Hickman, a former Union soldier who is heading north to the mountains of the west. This is their journey , the people they encountered and those who joined them along the way. I truly enjoyed the adventure and how their love for each other grew.
I've learned its always a good story if Peggy Thomas wrote it. This is the story of Susannah Piper a southern widow whose late Yankee husband died in Missouri on their way to Oregon. She meets Samuel Hickman, a former Union soldier who is heading north to the mountains of the west. This is their journey , the people they encountered and those who joined them along the way. I truly enjoyed the adventure and how their love for each other grew.
April 30, 2025
Another fantastic read by Pegg Thomas! The story pulled me in from the start with well-developed characters, a slow-burn romance, and an engaging story that kept me turning pages. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
February 10, 2023
As a history buff I really enjoy how historically accurate Pegg Thomas makes her books. I love her notes at the end of the story with the historical information including when she might have fudged the details a little. Hick just doesn’t realize that he really needs his temporary family just as much as they need him. Even as it pulls at the heartstrings, this book is romantic, funny and unpredictable. I can’t wait for the next one. Can you hear my fingers drumming?
December 12, 2022
Excellent historical fiction, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this compelling story! Cobalt Skies is a wonderful post civil war story from the talented pen of author Pegg Thomas.
Adventures abound for former Civil War Cavalryman, Samuel Hickman and the Southern widow, Mrs. Susannah Piper and the wonderful stray people they meet along the way. The author has done her research! Full of historical details, and excellent writing, makes you feel like you are right in the scenes, and you come to love the characters as they battle the elements, unfair attitudes, their past, cholera, long distance traveling on horses, and traveling in Indian territory.
"Those men-at least three had ridden onto the property- had no idea who Susannah Mary Jessup Piper was. All they heard was her Southern accent, her thick Georgia drawl. And from that, they assumed she was a slaver and a traitorous rebel and probably a harlot to boot. She was none of those things." "How much she'd changed in two and a half years. From a doctor's daughter, working to help the sick and injured, to a woman on her own prepared to use a gun if need be."
And Sam Hickman meets her on the first night Susannah Piper camped near him, on her way to find a wagon train out to Oregon. At her camp, she was harassed by two men from the river, and Sam was close enough to be of assistance. "He was twenty-four years old. He'd be twenty-five come July. But the four years he'd served in the cavalry with the 1st Ohio, Company C, had aged him. He'd seen too much, Lost too much." He never wants to be responsible for another living person again after his devastating war experiences.
I highly recommend Cobalt Skies. If you love historical fiction, you will love this! It's excellent.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy, all opinions are my own.
Adventures abound for former Civil War Cavalryman, Samuel Hickman and the Southern widow, Mrs. Susannah Piper and the wonderful stray people they meet along the way. The author has done her research! Full of historical details, and excellent writing, makes you feel like you are right in the scenes, and you come to love the characters as they battle the elements, unfair attitudes, their past, cholera, long distance traveling on horses, and traveling in Indian territory.
"Those men-at least three had ridden onto the property- had no idea who Susannah Mary Jessup Piper was. All they heard was her Southern accent, her thick Georgia drawl. And from that, they assumed she was a slaver and a traitorous rebel and probably a harlot to boot. She was none of those things." "How much she'd changed in two and a half years. From a doctor's daughter, working to help the sick and injured, to a woman on her own prepared to use a gun if need be."
And Sam Hickman meets her on the first night Susannah Piper camped near him, on her way to find a wagon train out to Oregon. At her camp, she was harassed by two men from the river, and Sam was close enough to be of assistance. "He was twenty-four years old. He'd be twenty-five come July. But the four years he'd served in the cavalry with the 1st Ohio, Company C, had aged him. He'd seen too much, Lost too much." He never wants to be responsible for another living person again after his devastating war experiences.
I highly recommend Cobalt Skies. If you love historical fiction, you will love this! It's excellent.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy, all opinions are my own.
February 11, 2023
Another great story from Pegg Thomas!
Usually this author’s stories hit the ground running…this series speaks to her versatility in writing skills as each story unfolds a slow burn relationship, the loss of family and friends, the hurts of post Civil War and the struggle to build again.
This story also brought to light prejudices so strong that families remained severed and left to find there own way with nothing but a dream of a new life.
God brings people into our lives to fulfill His plan. After death brings regret, Hick doesn’t want to have anyone in his life, especially if he is made to feel responsible for them. I love the array of characters in this standalone, Book 2 of the A More Perfect Union series. Each character conveys a past that effects their future decisions. Thomas creates her motley crew with depth and spiritual elements that compel the reader to want to know more about them.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
Usually this author’s stories hit the ground running…this series speaks to her versatility in writing skills as each story unfolds a slow burn relationship, the loss of family and friends, the hurts of post Civil War and the struggle to build again.
This story also brought to light prejudices so strong that families remained severed and left to find there own way with nothing but a dream of a new life.
God brings people into our lives to fulfill His plan. After death brings regret, Hick doesn’t want to have anyone in his life, especially if he is made to feel responsible for them. I love the array of characters in this standalone, Book 2 of the A More Perfect Union series. Each character conveys a past that effects their future decisions. Thomas creates her motley crew with depth and spiritual elements that compel the reader to want to know more about them.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
January 22, 2023
Cobalt Skies is the second in a series that will transport you to a time and place long forgotten, where men and women (North and South) struggled to make their way in a new era. You'll experience a bit of their lives after the Civil War, as they try to make peace with each other and themselves. Historically accurate, tastefully written, and a joy to read. Pegg Thomas has a talent for bringing her characters and stories to life. I can't wait to read Silver Prairies!
January 25, 2023
My favorite story in a long time. The characters, Hick, Susannah, Bonnie, and my favorite: Cooter, seemed real. Cooter is unforgettable!
The book is so well written that I was immersed immediately and all the way through this fast-paced but detailed and delicious read.
Historical detail, grief, healing, friends becoming a patched together family, romance, and characters with grit.
Cobalt Skies had it all for me.
Highly recommend!
The book is so well written that I was immersed immediately and all the way through this fast-paced but detailed and delicious read.
Historical detail, grief, healing, friends becoming a patched together family, romance, and characters with grit.
Cobalt Skies had it all for me.
Highly recommend!
October 11, 2024
I've always been a fan of Pegg Thomas's writing, but not necessarily her settings (she likes to write about wars, and those aren't my fave). This story, however, is a post-Civil War story that doesn't include any battles or fighting, and it's easily my favorite of her books.
A slow-burn, wounded hero, frontier times romance, it's realistic, so it has its heartbreaking moments with plenty of sweetness and hope.
Rated G/PG.
A slow-burn, wounded hero, frontier times romance, it's realistic, so it has its heartbreaking moments with plenty of sweetness and hope.
Rated G/PG.
March 17, 2023
My Musings
An emotionally charged novel set in the aftermath of the civil war with engaging characters and an action packed plot. Glad I found this one in Kindle Unlimited. Happy reading!
An emotionally charged novel set in the aftermath of the civil war with engaging characters and an action packed plot. Glad I found this one in Kindle Unlimited. Happy reading!
May 29, 2023
Enjoyed
I enjoyed this story of finding friends in an unexpected place. The kindness of those willing to help others. And a love that might just be a wonderful beginning. Heartfelt and sweet. Clean romance.
I enjoyed this story of finding friends in an unexpected place. The kindness of those willing to help others. And a love that might just be a wonderful beginning. Heartfelt and sweet. Clean romance.
January 20, 2023
Post-Civil War times were not as calm as one might expect after the war and the prejudices of a divided nation lived long and hard in a lot of lives. When both Samuel “Hick” and Susannah Piper meet up on the trail heading West, sparks definitely fly but not necessarily in a good way. After both have lost so much trust is hard to come by. Hick definitely is finished with being responsible for anyone especially after the difficult loss of his younger brother. This story is of resilience, courage, strength and honor even though the main characters were on opposite sides of the war. There is a pattern of Hick collecting “stray” people along the trail that adds to the delightful personalities and lightens the mood somewhat of a tough post war story.
I have read a few of the authors novels and I always appreciate the meticulous care she takes with her historical facts. She does a wonderful job in this capacity and always turns out a very enjoyable novel. I have read about half of her backlist and always recommend the author for her accuracy in historical fiction.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
I have read a few of the authors novels and I always appreciate the meticulous care she takes with her historical facts. She does a wonderful job in this capacity and always turns out a very enjoyable novel. I have read about half of her backlist and always recommend the author for her accuracy in historical fiction.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
November 26, 2022
Cobalt Skies is the 2nd book in the A More Perfect Union series. This book totally grabbed my attention from the very start. It was filled with adventure and warm tender moments as well. I loved the way strangers became the best of friends, and perhaps more.
This book takes you on a journey to the West as former Civil War Cavalryman, Samuel Hickman and the Southern widow, Mrs. Susanna Piper head out for their personal goals, helping each other along the way. They run into many difficult situations as they go at a time when North and South still harbored feelings. This is a heartwarming book. I really enjoyed everything about it. This book is a page turner!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.
This book takes you on a journey to the West as former Civil War Cavalryman, Samuel Hickman and the Southern widow, Mrs. Susanna Piper head out for their personal goals, helping each other along the way. They run into many difficult situations as they go at a time when North and South still harbored feelings. This is a heartwarming book. I really enjoyed everything about it. This book is a page turner!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.
February 16, 2023
I really enjoy the Post-Civil War era. It was a time of immense change for our country and countless stories of those attempting to regain their lives.
Cobalt Skies, Book Two of the More Perfect Union series by Author Pegg Thomas, didn’t disappoint.
Samuel Hickman is running from the effects of the war, including guilt over the loss of his brother and lingering trauma from all he went through. Heading west to forget the grief of losing his home and family, all he wants to do is be alone with his misery, hidden in secrecy… but that doesn’t happen.
Susannah Piper carries her own secrets and is attempting to escape by making her way to Oregon to fulfill the dream that would never be with the husband she no longer has.
She meets Hick by happenstance, and no one is more surprised than the former soldier when he develops feelings for the widow, who makes it clear that his protection is unwanted.
Despite her protests, Hick’s sense of honor and integrity pushes him to assume responsibility for her as well as the ragtag traveling companions they collect as they navigate a new normal.
So many secrets. So many losses. So much grief. Each wracked by their pain yet bound together, Hick and Susannah somehow find their way and along the way, find each other.
Cobalt Skies, Book Two of the More Perfect Union series by Author Pegg Thomas, didn’t disappoint.
Samuel Hickman is running from the effects of the war, including guilt over the loss of his brother and lingering trauma from all he went through. Heading west to forget the grief of losing his home and family, all he wants to do is be alone with his misery, hidden in secrecy… but that doesn’t happen.
Susannah Piper carries her own secrets and is attempting to escape by making her way to Oregon to fulfill the dream that would never be with the husband she no longer has.
She meets Hick by happenstance, and no one is more surprised than the former soldier when he develops feelings for the widow, who makes it clear that his protection is unwanted.
Despite her protests, Hick’s sense of honor and integrity pushes him to assume responsibility for her as well as the ragtag traveling companions they collect as they navigate a new normal.
So many secrets. So many losses. So much grief. Each wracked by their pain yet bound together, Hick and Susannah somehow find their way and along the way, find each other.
January 4, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I was caught up from the beginning to the end. I loved the characters of Hick and Susannah right from the beginning. Later on, Cooter and Bonnie were great additions to the story. I loved Susannah’s determination and resilience. Being a Southerner married to a Yankee left her isolated from both worlds. Once when Hick said she didn’t belong on the trail, she replied that she didn’t belong anywhere. I liked how Hick was determined to be on his own, but could not leave Susannah behind when she needed his help. This was a great story, and I loved the surprises toward the end. I recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
January 17, 2023
Pegg Thomas never disappoints when it comes to historical accuracy. She takes those nuggets and creates a fantastic story. I fell in love with the characters and spent more hours in their presence the day I started it than I did with my husband.. Time after the Civil War was tense and everyone was looking for their place of peace Cobalt Skies reflects that need. There were so many unexpected things that happen. Pegg's creativity with the storyline and spunky characters is a delight to read. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 26, 2023
Western romance is not my typical genre but I liked this story. Pegg Thomas is a deft writer and brings out the personalities of her characters, both human and equine! I especially liked Peaches the mule. The history is interesting, too, the raw decades after the Civil War. The characters are battered and bruised by loss and hate, but find healing and hope. Recommended!
July 17, 2023
Post Civil War Story
I have enjoyed the series A more perfect Union, by Pegg Thomas. I think i like book 2 Cobalt Skies even more than book 1.
But, both books are filled with great characters that are scarred from the Civil War, and action, adventure, Romance. Looking forward to reading book 3. I am also looking forward to reading more by Pegg Thomas.
I have enjoyed the series A more perfect Union, by Pegg Thomas. I think i like book 2 Cobalt Skies even more than book 1.
But, both books are filled with great characters that are scarred from the Civil War, and action, adventure, Romance. Looking forward to reading book 3. I am also looking forward to reading more by Pegg Thomas.
February 1, 2024
Out of my normal preferred genres, but a good read. Why only a 3-star rating? I wanted more historical “meat” woven in, and the ending was too neat for me. But it is a book I’d recommend. I particularly enjoyed the character Cooter. For those who gravitate towards western settings and romance, this would be a 4 or 5 star.
November 19, 2023
This may be my fav yet!
I am more impressed with this author’s work with each book she writes! Loved this one! Maybe a bit too much came together for a happy ending to be totally realistic. But, I do love happy endings! I had a difficult time putting this book down.
I am more impressed with this author’s work with each book she writes! Loved this one! Maybe a bit too much came together for a happy ending to be totally realistic. But, I do love happy endings! I had a difficult time putting this book down.
May 25, 2024
Excellent
I read book one a while back. So I thought I’d better get to reading book 2. I wasn’t disappointed at all. Pegg is an excellent storyteller and author. I truly enjoy her gift of writing. I recommend this book and any of her books. ❤️📖📖❤️
I read book one a while back. So I thought I’d better get to reading book 2. I wasn’t disappointed at all. Pegg is an excellent storyteller and author. I truly enjoy her gift of writing. I recommend this book and any of her books. ❤️📖📖❤️
January 19, 2023
I loved it, Pegg!
I can’t wait for book 3. ❤️
I can’t wait for book 3. ❤️
August 25, 2023
This book hit all the right buttons for me. The protagonists were likeable and relateable. Enough twists and turns to keep me interested. Am looking forward to the next book by Pegg Thomas!
April 5, 2023
Pegg Thomas writes wonderful, detailed, historical fiction. I have read all of her stories and have loved all of them. If you like Laura Frantz, Lori Benton, or Jocelyn Green, then you will definitely like Pegg Thomas. Her current series takes place in post-Civil War America and explores the aftermath of the war and how it affects individual people. In Cobalt Skies we meet Hick, a former Union cavalry soldier. He’s struggling with PTSD and guilt over the things he did during the war and over his brother’s death in the war. He’s on the way to Wyoming to start his own horse farm away from civilization and responsibility for others. Susannah Piper is a southern woman with no family or home. She is considered a traitor to her people for rescuing and marrying a Union soldier. After the death of her husband she decides to move to Oregon. She hopes that out there will be far enough away from the prejudice and division in the East. Chance brings Hick and Susannah together as they journey west. Susannah needs the protection of an honest man, but Hick wants nothing to do with her. He learned that being responsible for others does not end well for him or them. I enjoy these kinds of stories where the characters are on a journey together. The romance is sweet and slow burning. It’s kind- of an enemies to friends to lovers romance. I can understand where Susanna is coming from because she really had nowhere else to go. Even though Hick comes across as a jerk most of the time I can understand why he is the way he is also.
January 10, 2023
What is family? Is it blood or is it folks who have the same goals and want to work together to achieve them?
Sam Hickman is a former Union cavalry man trying very hard to leave the war and the grief is caused behind. With plans and hopes to head west and establish a horse ranch, he finds himself in Kansas City, MO, well on his way. But that is before he comes upon Susannah Piper, a war widow from the South who is heading for Oregon. Will he rescue her or leave her behind?
This well detailed story of what life was like post civil war is one you will not set aside until finished. Trust was something earned, not just given. Danger lurked in many forms, both the two legged and four legged ones. Will our intrepid travelers band together and face whatever the future has in store?
An early copy of book two in the series A More Perfect Union was received through the author. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
Sam Hickman is a former Union cavalry man trying very hard to leave the war and the grief is caused behind. With plans and hopes to head west and establish a horse ranch, he finds himself in Kansas City, MO, well on his way. But that is before he comes upon Susannah Piper, a war widow from the South who is heading for Oregon. Will he rescue her or leave her behind?
This well detailed story of what life was like post civil war is one you will not set aside until finished. Trust was something earned, not just given. Danger lurked in many forms, both the two legged and four legged ones. Will our intrepid travelers band together and face whatever the future has in store?
An early copy of book two in the series A More Perfect Union was received through the author. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
December 28, 2022
Cobalt Skies is the second book in A More Perfect Union. As with the others, the hero is an ex-Civil War cavalryman whose life was torn apart during the war.
Sam Hickman spends two years after the war just drifting and breaking horses, doing his best to forget what happened. But his isn't the only life torn apart.
Susannah Piper lost her husband on their way to Oregon, fleeing from the consequences of the war. A Georgia woman, she battles discrimination due to her accent.
Hick doesn't want to be responsible for anyone else - ever again - but he can't turn his back on the widow in need, either. One battle between North and South has ended, but another one has just begun.
Sam Hickman spends two years after the war just drifting and breaking horses, doing his best to forget what happened. But his isn't the only life torn apart.
Susannah Piper lost her husband on their way to Oregon, fleeing from the consequences of the war. A Georgia woman, she battles discrimination due to her accent.
Hick doesn't want to be responsible for anyone else - ever again - but he can't turn his back on the widow in need, either. One battle between North and South has ended, but another one has just begun.
April 7, 2023
Never have I stayed up until 3am to finish a book…..until last night! Loved the development of the characters and their relationships. Her word pictures made it feel like I was there to witness the story. LOVED IT!!! Thank you Pegg for another great book.
May 10, 2023
The story pulled me in from the beginning. So many believable, lovable characters with their own tragic stories to tell kept me turning pages. The author weaves the story swiftly from conflict to conflict while keeping the inner struggles of the main characters in focus.
Although this story takes place after the Civil War, I love how the author shows the struggles everyone continued to face because of it.
A beautifully written fast-paced adventure with surprises at every turn. It held my attention so effectively that I read the last half in one sitting. Such a great story. Well-done!
Recommended for readers of westerns and historical romance!
Although this story takes place after the Civil War, I love how the author shows the struggles everyone continued to face because of it.
A beautifully written fast-paced adventure with surprises at every turn. It held my attention so effectively that I read the last half in one sitting. Such a great story. Well-done!
Recommended for readers of westerns and historical romance!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews