Author: Laura Frantz Genre: Historical Romance Release Date: January 7, 2020 Unflinching and plainspoken, Tessa Swan is not your typical 18th-century woman. Born and bred on the western Virginia frontier along with her five brothers, she is a force to be reckoned with. Quiet and courageous, Clay Tygart is not your typical 18th-century man. Raised by Lenape Indians, he returns a hero from the French and Indian War to the fort that bears his name, bringing with him Tessa's long-lost friend, Keturah, a redeemed Indian captive like himself. Determined to avoid any romantic entanglements as fort commander, Clay remains aloof whenever he encounters the lovely Tessa. But when she is taken captive by the tribe Clay left, his hand--and heart--are forced, leading to one very private and one very public reckoning. Intense, evocative, and laced with intricate historical details that bring the past to life, An Uncommon Woman will transport you to the picturesque and dangerous western Virginia mountains of 1770. Reviewer: Liz Franklin What a lovely book this was! This is the first book by this author that I have read, but I think perhaps, it might be one of my favorite historical fiction books! The characters were interesting and dynamic. Tessa is a beautiful name, and she is quite the lady. It was amusing to read from her point of view. Clay was a fantastic character in this book. He is very strong and courageous, perfect for a fort commander. Tessa’s five brothers were funny to read about as well... at least most of the time. I do wish we had spent a bit more time with their characters in to know them as individuals. Laura Frantz has a very nice writing style and really focuses on small details. She described everything wonderfully and in immense attention to detail that made it very easy to picture. I think many other writers could learn a lesson from her in that respect. The cover for this book was very pretty and quite nicely thought out. Four stars and recommended for ages 13+. I received this book courtesy of Baker Publishing (Revell), through Interviews & Reviews, for my honest opinion. Reviewer: Susan Poll In a time when eking out one’s existence was brutal and dangerous, a sweet and genuine romance still bloomed. The storytelling and details of the unsettling time in our country’s history is just amazingly done. It sucks you in and takes you for a roller-coaster ride of emotions. The fort life and homestead living were harsh and are not sugar-coated here. You can’t help but feel a part of their lives and cheer for them when they push on. I don’t know how the author did it so perfectly – but the swoon-worthy romance fits right into the era and gives you hope in a time when there wasn’t much. I adored Clay, I felt sorrows with Tessa, and I sympathized with the rest of her clan and the fort people. This is a bookshelf keeper and one I will re-read many times in the future. I got this book from Baker Publishing Group/Revell through Interviews & Reviews. Reviewer: Joan Dowell I just loved this book and couldn't put it down. The characters, storyline, and setting drew me in. Tessa Swan lives in Western Virginia with her mother and five brothers. Her father was killed by the Indians in the area. To top that off, her best friend Keturah was stolen by these same Indians while picking strawberries together. Tessa lives a life of fears and doubts. Her future does not look like the future of her dreams. That is until Colonel Clay Tygart comes on the scene. Colonel Tygart, once an Indian captive himself, comes into town with a released Indian captive. This captive is none other than Tessa's best friend Keturah from years past. Keturah is having problems transitioning back into her English world. Tessa and Clay try to assist Ketruah in making a choice that is best for her. While doing so, they notice their feelings for each other. But, with the struggles of threats and the hard choices that surround them, will their love for each other be denied? This book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group/Revell, through Interviews & Reviews. Reviewer: Deanne Patterson The undisputed Queen of frontier romance has done it again. Transporting us back into time where things were a little uncivilized but the heart of people was the same. They had the same hopes, dreams, longings, and fears we face today. The plot is richly descriptive, and your imagination will flow with this one as you become immersed in the storyline. The characters are as resilient as the land they dwell upon full of life, dreams, and charm. This early American historical novel is remarkable, and Laura Frantz's best work to date. I highly recommend it! This book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group/Revell, through Interviews & Reviews. Reviewer: Jane Mouttet The time in American history when Native Americans took whites as captives and incorporated them into their tribes was a difficult time. Laura Frantz has captured the fear of the settlers as well as the conflicted lives of those taken captive once they returned to the white world. She does a good job of presenting both sides of the story. Those of the white settlers and the views of the Native Americans who have had their land taken away. Frantz seems to have stayed true to history. The characters in this story are well-developed and believable. Readers will become emotionally involved in the lives of Tessa, Clay, and others in the book. While all the major plot lines in the book seem to be tied up at the end, there are several minor plot lines and characters with stories that could continue. I hope to read more about these characters in future books by Laura Frantz. An Uncommon Woman is an excellent historical fiction story for those interested in American history in the time period between the French and Indian War and the Revolutionary War. I recommend this title. An Uncommon Woman would be appropriate for high school students in my K-12 Christian school library. I want to thank Interviews and Reviews and Revell for the complimentary copy of An Uncommon Woman. This is my honest review. Reviewer: Winnie Thomas Brimming with adventure and rich descriptive imagery, An Uncommon Woman showcases Laura Frantz’s impeccable research and attention to detail beautifully. The setting in 1770 on the western Virginia frontier with all its difficulties and hazards is a wonderful, intriguing backdrop for this captivating story. Frantz is a master at creating colorful, engaging, and multi-layered characters that come alive on the page. Courageous, hardworking, and plainspoken, Tessa Swan is indeed an uncommon woman who bravely goes about her daily life while dreaming of the day she can live someplace where she doesn’t always need to have her guard up—where she can feel safe. Clay Tygart is an intrepid, likable hero who enjoys the open country as opposed to the social life of the more populated towns. I enjoyed the slowly budding courtship and romance that simmered between the two. When I read a Laura Frantz book, I’m always torn between wanting to savor each page and needing to hurry to finish the story, and this one was no exception. Filled with intrigue, suspense, rich historical detail, and just the right amount of romance, An Uncommon Woman is historical fiction at its finest. It has earned a spot on my keeper shelf and is a contender for my favorite books of the year list. I heartily recommend it to those who enjoy outstanding historical fiction. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy courtesy of Baker Publishing Group/Revell, through Interviews & Reviews. All opinions are my own. Reviewer: Abigail Harder This book was so good. Though it was not my favorite book by Ms. Frantz, this book still transported me back to the Virginia frontier during the 1700s. I love this setting so much. The plot was intriguing, and it was very difficult to put this book down. The characters, like in all of Ms. Frantz's books, were amazing, and I loved seeing them grow and mature throughout this book. Tessa was a hoot, and her character was amazing. Her love, compassion, and servant-like attitude really made me connect and love her character. She was real and a very down to earth character, which is my favorite! Clay was a darling and a sweetheart. I loved getting to know his character better and more in-depth throughout this book. He was the perfect male lead for this book. Other characters like Hester, Ross, Keturah, Maddie, Jude, and the other Swan brothers were awesome characters that I also connected with and loved. The plot twists kept me on my toes. I was flipping pages like crazy trying to figure out what was going to happen next. I was super happy at the end of the book, but because of spoilers, I'll have to let you read it yourself to discover why I was so happy! Like her other books, Ms. Frantz did a fantastic job with the faith content. I always love reading her books because of the faith content that she includes. It is never too preachy but the perfect amount and in the right places. I love how her books and characters always point to Jesus. It's super refreshing! This book was so good, and I recommend it to every historical fiction lover. Ms. Frantz does a fantastic job at her research and is a fabulous writer. Now I get to wait around for another year to read her next book. *FTC: I received this book from Revell through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts are my own. I was NOT required to write a positive review.* Reviewer: Nicole Wegscheider Laura Frantz’s book, An Uncommon Woman, is a fascinating historical fiction novel that reveals the native Indian and white man challenges. This story takes place in the Buckhannon River, Western Virginia, during 1770. On military assignment, Colonel Clay Tygart is tasked to return Keturah to her family. She is a kind-hearted and exceptionally beautiful white woman abducted by the native Indians years ago. As they travel together to Fort Tygart in Western Virginia, they learn about each other. Meanwhile, in Buckhannon River, Tessa Swan — a faith-filled, outspoken, beautiful woman, longs for a different way of life. She is a very resourceful woman who lives with her family — mother and brothers. Tessa misses her childhood friend, who disappeared. When Colonel Clay Tygart meets the Swan family, I like the way Colonel Tygart and Tessa become friends. It is open and honest. How refreshing! This page-turning novel has so many twists, turns, and unanswered questions. What was Keturah’s life like with the native Indians? Why does Colonel Tygart speak such fluent native Indian with Keturah? What happened to Tessa’s childhood friend? Who is the uncommon woman? It was interesting to learn that Keturah became a healer among the native Indians. Several fascinating passages are referring to the native Indians’ natural remedies. Despite the challenges of the frontier lifestyle, it was enjoyable to learn that community living at Fort Tygart was engaging and fun. I liked following the social activities — dinner dances, gingerbread cookie baking contests, etc. I would highly recommend reading this page-turning novel, An Uncommon Woman. It would make a great gift. I received this book courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Revell, through Interviews & Reviews. Reviewer: Sabrina Wade A story of two very uncommon women on a journey decided for them by chance. Both women had to decide to live hopeless lives considering their circumstances or choose to live a life of joy looking beyond one's circumstances. A very uncommon thing to do day to day on the Western frontier. Although a slow start, don't let that deter you from reading on and discovering a great read. A novel full of inspiration, redemption, forgiveness, love, and struggles that are worth pushing through. As far as the ending, not sure if there was an ending or a pause preparing for a continuation novel. This book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group through Interviews & Reviews. Reviewer: Becky Hrivnak An Uncommon Woman by Laura Frantz is a lovely adventure that takes the reader back to a time in the late 1700’s to a time I’ve always dreamed of living. Frantz takes the reader on a tour of the rough life on the frontier where Native Americans are warring and the frontier people are working so hard to live and protect their lives, loves, and homes. Tessa is a strong-willed young woman that dreams of a better life yet is stronger than most women I know. Clay, what a guy! He’s the protector of many having been stolen from his family by Natives at a young age. I love the way that Frantz always keeps the historical details spot on and love the romance in the midst of a struggling time of our countries history. Lovely read! I recommend all historical romance lovers grab this up as you won’t be disappointed! I received an advanced readers copy from Baker Publishing Group, Revell Division through Interviews & Reviews. Reviewer: Laura J. Davis An Uncommon Woman by Laura Frantz is a historical adventure that beckons the reader to immerse themselves in a story filled with danger, romance and intrigue. It is a thrilling tale of courage, heartache, faith and love in the wilds of the western Virginia frontier. Set in the 18th century, Tessa Swan has grown up surrounded by five protective brothers. She has also grown up with danger looming from Indian raids, every day of her life. She is tough yet thoughtful. Outspoken, yet prayerful. She is a frontier woman born and bred, and yet longs for the finer things in life. Clay Tygart was kidnapped and raised by Lenape Indians, but after his return, he works to protect the frontier from an outpost bearing his name. He knows the delicate balance required to keep the peace between the Indians and the white settlers. Finding romance in the wilderness was not what he wanted or expected. But he's never met a woman like Tessa. I am always thrilled to read a Laura Frantz novel. Her dedication to historical accuracy and vivid descriptions unfold like a movie in one's mind. Making this book incredibly hard to put down. At times I found myself yelling aloud at Tessa (she is incredibly strong-willed) and at other times, sighing like a schoolgirl. Oh, how I hope this gets turned into a movie! Thoroughly engaging and a delight to read. I cannot recommend An Uncommon Woman enough! I received this book courtesy of Baker Publishing Group, Revell Division through NetGalley. Reviewer: Lori Parrish I was so very happy to get this book. Laura Frantz is an excellent historical story teller. I try never to miss any of her books and this one was no exception. I was very excited to get to read this. Laura never disappoints! Her writing style is original and true to the books she has written. The cover is absolutely gorgeous!! I love that it matches the story within. I loved this new tale that takes you to the frontier with the Indians! Lenape to be exact. I always enjoy a good story with the Indians involved. Too me, they are human too. God created them too. It's too bad that people can't get along. All new wonderful characters with an excellent plot. You will be taken back to Buckhannon River, W. Virginia in 1770 and you'll not want to leave or say goodbye to this wonderful place and time. Tessa was my favorite from the beginning. She's strong, stalwart and tough. She can endure anything. I loved her personality too. I liked Clay immediately. His background is a little different than Tessa. He is from a Quaker background but doesn't practice his Faith. Clay is the best of both worlds! Katurah is the most interesting character of all. I learned a lot about the Indians from Keturah. I think Keturah is the best from both worlds as well. I say that because well, I considered her a teacher of some sorts. But anyway, y'all are in for a treat with this book. I love love loved it!! I strongly recommend this book you'll be glad you picked it up. This book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing, Revell Division, through Interviews & Reviews.
Joan Dowell
2/11/2020 08:16:28 pm
I truly enjoyed this book. I have read two others from this author and enjoyed them also! This is truly a winner.
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