Civil war romances have long been a favorite genre of mine. I've been reading about the civil war since I was eight and reading picture books to my siblings. I have always loved learning about the civil war and how it changed America. While it is such a sad and hard time it was also a good time.


The blurb told me that I would enjoy the book, I knew that I may be slightly annoyed with the romance but I wasn't, not at all, I did dislike that Jack and Cristina kissed when they did, I felt that it was too soon, not to mention inappropriate since they barely knew each other and he had given her the news of her husband's death.


The kids, oh, my heart broke for the kids who were without their father and lived in a fearful time, but, my, Elias was brave for a kid and I loved how he took care of everything he could for his family and how he let his sister follow along even when h didn't want to have her follow. It was so sweet.


Jack, sweet Jack! He really needed some help at times. Between being shot, giving the news of Cristina's husband's death, and being around a boy that hated him he really could have used a friend … Which he had in God, I liked Jack's simple faith. He was a truly good character.


I liked the way the whole book tied together, and the slight mystery was well added though I didn't love the way the bad guy was so nasty. While he made a good bad guy since you know, he was a bad guy and you weren't supposed to like him. I didn't need his point of view.


A sweet romance that is perfect for a rainy day.


Better for older readers given the bad guy.

This book was provided courtesy of the author, through Interviews & Reviews. ( )

What I think you should know:
Her Rebel Heart by Sharlene MacLaren is Christian Historical Fiction. It is set in 1863 West Virginia. Christina Stiles is the wife of a Confederate soldier, who now lives in Union occupied territory. When Christiana mistakes Union Lieutenant Jack Fuller for Yankee raiders she shoots him, only to find out he was there to notify her of her Husband’s death.

What I think about this Book:
What a beautiful story! I loved how MacLaren portrayed Jack and Christiana, showing that even though they were seperated by sides of the war they were still people. Elias and Catherina were heartbreaking to see what they experienced. Mrs. Clara was such a fun character, who I could easily picture as my grandmother. I loved how Jack was able to introduce Christina to God. This is a touching story of God’s love and faithfulness in no matter our surroundings. If you have never read MacLaren, this is a great place to start!

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own. ( )

This is an enjoyable Civil War novel. I enjoyed the characters of Jack and Christina and her children. This showed some of the worst and the best parts of a war. I love how people help each other when there is a crisis. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. ( )

Set during the time of the Civil War, this book has characters that illustrate the best and worst of traits including strength, courage, and outright evil. Cristina Stiles has been left alone to care for her two children while her husband fights on the side of the South in the war. She has the misfortune of being attacked by two Union soldiers who illustrate pure evil.

In the meantime, Jack Fuller, another soldier fighting on the side of the North is forced to kill a man. As the man is dying he begs Jack to take a letter to his wife Cristina. This action results in Jack being granted leave by his commanding officer to complete his task.

Jack has to deal with an irate farmer, the two men who attacked Cristina, plus being shot at by Cristina. But my favorite part of this book is how the community eventually comes together to show the love of Christ to Cristina and her children.

If you enjoy reading historical Christian fiction, check out this book for yourself.

I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review. ( )

With a beautiful cover, a slowly-developing romance, delightful characters, and more, Sharlene MacLaren’s “Her Rebel Heart” is an absorbing, heartfelt read. Her writing won me over with “A Love to Behold” last year, and I was thrilled to be able to read “Her Rebel Heart.” Historical fiction has always been my first love when it comes to genres, and the additional fact that this novel features the Civil War made it appeal to me all the more. Exploring the narrative through a Christian lens is particularly enlightening when considering the big picture: how America as a country became so divided, and also the impact on families on both sides.

Several historical facts set “Her Rebel Heart” apart from other historical fiction written about thjs time period. For instance, I am very interested in learning more about the secession of West Virginia from Virginia, which as we know became permanent. I found it interesting to learn that some West Virginians maintained loyalty to the South, including the main character in this novel. In the spirit of historical accuracy and honesty, I give MacLaren kudos for two of the villainous characters, who are Union soldiers, because this demonstrates that not every Union soldier had good morals, nor did every Confederate have bad ethics. Also, by employing the dialect of the West Virginia town, the author adds authenticity and cultural flavor to the narrative.

As for Cristina’s newfound faith, she starts changing her habits, reading the Bible, and coming to Jesus when she realizes the negative effect that her attitude has had on her children, causing her son especially to feel callous toward others. As Jack comments, “Sure seems like you’ve got the hand of God on you, protecting you time and again, and I’m wondering whether you’ve been aware of that, or whether the idea’s entirely new to you.” Sometimes all it takes is a nudge in the right direction or a kind word to set someone on the right path, and we should all strive to offer that kindness to others. As in “Her Rebel Heart”, one never knows where it may lead.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own. ( )