Faithful of Heart by Tracie Peterson introduces the series A Minnesota Legacy. It is to be a short series, only 2 books. This story takes place in the latter half of the 1860s. The plot is something of a classic–the one where a wealthy, arrogant relative orders an estranged relation to come stay with them in order to claim their inheritance. Tracie Peterson handles it well and still leaves some uncertainties for the reader to discover.

The main character, Judith Stanford, is introduced in such a way that one admires her courage and dedication to serving others. It is interesting to watch as her heart changes and the various challenges she faces. She is a bit of a contradiction because she is so fiercely independent and has so much life experience that one would expect her to be a bit more aware of some of the situations in which she finds herself.

The character of Roman Turner is also a classic religious fiction element. He has a heart of gold, but cannot truly move forward in life until he learns to forgive. Otherwise, he is in danger of it corrupting his soul. Tracie Peterson does a fine job of handling his emotions and even creates a person the reader loves and with whom the reader can sympathize.

There is always a twist and bit of drama in a tale such as this, but even though this is not a new theme, the reader still feels compassion and sorrow for those who are struggling. This tale of redemption, love, and romance is an enjoyable read.

Review of a Digital Advance Reader’s Copy Provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: Several references to the Civil War and people being shot and wounded and, in some cases, killed; character holds another at gunpoint and threatens to shoot; a person recalls taking another person’s life.

Sex/Nudity: Characters kiss and embrace.

Mature Subject Matter

Death of a spouse, death of a parent.

Drug/Alcohol Use:

Character asks for a glass of whiskey.