reviewsbyerin

Cora Taylor runs from England to the Blue Ridge Mountains to escape the arranged marriage her father has set up for her. If her brother and uncle have survived in this rustic land, surely Cora can as well. But mountain lions, raccoons, and contrary mountain folk may be more than Cora can handle, even with her strong mental fortitude from nursing on the front lines during the Great War.

Jeb McAdams worries that the trauma from the war and the failings of his forefathers will shroud his life with darkness. But beauty keeps him holding on—the loveliness of creating things, the joy of helping others. And when Cora Taylor literally falls into his arms, he learns a whole new definition of beauty.

As Cora seeks solace in the mountains, others can't help but seek her out for the medical help she can offer them. But not everyone is welcoming. Will rumor and superstition ruin everything she's trying to build?

I enjoyed this story. It's not often you read tales of women with trauma after a war situation, and I appreciated how Cora and Jeb bonded over their shared experiences. The messages woven throughout were powerful. My one complaint, having read this book immediately after the first book in the series, is that the storylines and challenges faced were very similar between the two novels. However, if you don't mind that or if it's been a while since you read the first book, you probably wouldn't notice.

If you enjoy historical romance with lovable characters, be sure to check this one out.

I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this opinion are my own.