Kathleen Shoop

I received a free copy of this novel for my honest and unbiased review.

“The Last Letter” is a touching story of love, loss, and forgiveness. Katherine is the one reflecting on her past. Trying to figure out when the love she once had for her mother disappeared. The story toggles between 1887and present day 1905. Will she be able to find forgiveness and love before the cancer consumes Jeanie?

Frank Authur has big dreams, always the dreamer with bright ideas. His latest has uprooted his wife and three children from their life of luxury to stake a claim on 133 acres of land in the Dakotas. In a matter of weeks, the Authurs are forced to adjust to the pioneer lifestyle, living in an underground hovel. He’s determined to make the most of it, but will they survive??

Jeanie is determined to make their new life work. She’s recently realized she’s pregnant with a baby they cannot afford. She tries to bring her sophistication to the prairies, as she designs and sews fashionable yet practical clothing for her neighbors.

Lutie and Ruthie Moore are sisters living on the prairie. While Ruthie works her gardens and does chores, she doesn’t feel attractive enough to get a man. Lutie, on the other hand, dreams of finding a man to whisk her away from it all. Apparently, it’s every man she encounters.

The Hunts are an unusual Quaker couple. While Mrs. Hunt smokes, sniffs, or eats Opium, and happens to be the village preacher, her darling husband is helping out the other homesteaders with whatever chore that requires assistance.

Mr. Templeton is a ruggedly handsome and single homesteader. He’s always there to give a hand when needed and even when it isn’t.

James is the oldest of the Arthur children. He has an unwavering interest in the weather. Because of this, he and Mr. Templeton become fast friends as he teaches the preteen how to forecast.

Tommy is twin to Katherine, and is drawn to the Hunt’s Sunday services. He’s decided there is a God and everything is in His hands.

I love Historical Fiction novels, and once again Kathleen Shoop does not disappoint. Her story was easy to follow, although toggled from pasted to present. The descriptions of the homes and area were extremely accurate to the pioneering days, including all of the struggles with nature that they had. The characters were each unique in personalities, which was something I loved about this novel. Because of this, I could not put the book down; I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next to these people that were ill prepared for their new life.… (meer)

I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. Carolyn Jenkins is a new schoolteacher. She lives in Maryland with her two teacher friends Laura and Nina. Laura is a sweet “Southern Belle”, while Nina is abrasive and right to the point. All Carolyn wants out of life are two things; for her kids to trust her and know she believes in them, and to find true love. Will she be able to overcome Principal Klein? Is Jeep the guy for her?

This was such a fascinating novel that I was drawn in from the very first page. I loved that although it primarily dealt with Carolyn’s job and her quest for love, there is quite a bit of humor, especially the names of some characters. I found myself constantly drawn in to every situation. This was a great endearing read, one that you’ll love.
… (meer)

I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

The Road Home is book two of The Letter series. In this portion, Jeanie Arthur has passed away. During the funeral, Katherine and Tommy learn that during their separation from their mother, she had touched and influenced many lives. They quickly realize that they didn't really know the woman that they called mother. Secrets are revealed that opens their eyes and gives them a glimpse into the years they were apart.

This was a heart rending story of love and hope. I loved the way they all turned to God during their most difficult times. Katherine's strength and determination is see inspiring, when she finally realizes her amazing gift, she embraces it wholeheartedly. Tommy's love for his family and drive to succeed is wonderful. I thought this novel was absolutely awesome, the characters were courageous, and the story came back full circle. I can't wait for book three to answer a few questions that are still lingering.… (meer)

The Thief's Heart is the long awaited sequel to Kathleen Shoop's The Last Letter. It was absolutely worth the wait, revisiting the Arthur's and seeing how they are getting along. Tommy still has issues and feels immense guilt about his parents divorce. But the family dynamic is still pretty strong even though to me Tommy seems to have alienated himself and believes he's doomed to be like Frank Arthur.

Kathleen Shoop has once again woven a Historical Fiction novel that will remain on your mind long after you've finished reading it. Let's just hope we don't have to wait very long to revisit the Arthur family.… (meer)