"An Uncommon Woman" by Laura Frantz

Tessa Swan was born and bred on the frontier. The only girl among five brothers, she's immensely practical while also longing for a finer life than she's known. In 1770 tensions are high with local Indian tribes, and the new Fort Tygart offers more protection than the settlers have had in the past, though it does not ease the ache of loss from those killed or captured in the conflicts.

A former Indian captive turned military leader, Clay Tygart journeys to the new fort bearing his name. Hoping his personal familiarity with both the white and red people will help him sustain peace, he has no interest in being there other than in an official capacity. But the plainspoken Tessa catches his eye, and soon it becomes clear that his Indian family has also not forgotten about him as the attacks on the fort and surrounding farms become personal.

Having so many brothers, Tessa isn't interested in finding herself a husband, but there's something about the self-assured Colonel Tygart. With the way he earns everyone's respect so quickly and efficiently manages volatile situations, Tessa can't help but be a little smitten over him.

This book is beautifully written and draws you in swiftly and surely. I loved both Tessa and Clay, and the wide and colorful cast of characters brings the story life. There is a gentle tension that flows in between the more exciting scenes of Indian uprisings, and there is a good look at how fragile life was in these days before our country was formed. I could have read this book in one sitting, it was that captivating to me! Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.