Historical Fiction Book Review: Waiting for His Return

Publisher's Description:

"The daughter of a wealthy Tennessee doctor falls in love with an injured artist-correspondent on assignment to cover battles near Union occupied Nashville.

The year is 1864 and the Civil War continues to impact families in the North and South. British born James Galloway, a special artist for Harper’s Weekly, travels with the Union troops, sketching battle scenes to bring war news home to those in the North. It’s dangerous work, but he is committed to the Union cause. When he is captured by Confederate troops, he spends several months in a prison camp. Finally, he escapes and travels north, hoping to reach the Union lines, but a bushwhacker attacks him, steals his horse, and leaves him seriously injured at the side of the road outside Nashville.

Rachel Thornton, a kind-hearted doctor’s daughter, takes James into their to home and nurses him while he recovers. Her feelings for James grow, but she has already lost one man she loves in the war. How can she give her heart to James, when she knows he may become another casualty of the war? With family drama, romance, and inspiration, this novella will lift your spirit and satisfy your romantic heart.

This novella was originally titled Though the Mountains Tremble and published in A Blue and Gray Christmas novella collection in 2009. It has been revised and updated for new readers to enjoy."

My Review

Waiting for His Return, by Carrie Turansky, is an entertaining historical fiction novella set during the uncertain times of the American Civil War. For the reader who enjoys the opportunity to savor a satisfying story in one sitting, this novella is a wonderful choice. Though the length may be short, the story abounds with well-developed characters and an engaging plot brimming with warmth and heart. This novella includes a well-crafted combination of history, romance, intrigue, faith, and even a bit of suspense that grabbed my attention and kept me interested from the first word to the last. Carrie Turansky is a talented writer whose stories never disappoint. It is a pleasure for me to recommend this novella to all readers.

My Reflection

As the characters grapple with uncertainty and fear in the face of war, they turn to God for peace and comfort. It is encouraging to be reminded that though the future is unknown, it is held in the hands of an all-knowing God whose plans for us are good. Though trials may test our faith, and anxious thoughts may fill our hearts with worry, we need never doubt that our compassionate God is always there to sustain us when we are weak, comfort us when we are discouraged, and guide us safely through hardships. This novella does a wonderful job of gently reminding the reader that God is near to all who seek him.

Click here to order a copy of this novella for yourself.  

*I received an early copy of this book from the author. The review I have freely written, whether positive or negative, contains opinions that are entirely my own.