Texas Troubles, by Caryl McAdoo, is book five in the Cross Timbers Family Saga and is part of the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collection. This is also a very good stand alone story. Having not read all of the series, I was able to follow along with this story. This is a story of two young men who grew up as best friends and as adults enlist on different sides of the Civil War. The story follow through their part in service as well as the girls they left behind and promise to come home to.

This story starts out with the four main characters while they are home in Texas. Cass and Jo Jo are best of friends while JoJo's brother, Rich, and Aaron are like brothers. As the story builds we see the friendships develop into romantic relationships. Aaron takes a job as a cotton buyer and as he leaves for his job, he and Jo Jo vocalize their feelings toward each other. Mean while, Rich was married to Cass's sister until her death. As he struggles to move forward, they realize their friendship has deepened.

This is a very well written story with strong characters. The writing is very clear and descriptive, it is easy to follow along and envision what is happening. This story caught my attention from the very beginning and was hard to put down. It was enjoyable to see the differences between Rich and Aaron and how they were able to remain friends despite them. The story shows the strength the soldiers and their families needed to get through the difficult times. This is a great story that shows the importance of prayer and relying on God.

I received an ebook copy of this story from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review ( )

Oh my goodness what a wonderful journey the author takes us on. I was intrigued about the Civil War and how it divided families. The opening of the book is very tranquil and festive as we are introduced to four characters. Oh how fun it would be to dance and laugh with no cares in the world. Cass and JoJo are best friends who have their eye on a certain someone. The jealousy that came up was written so well. Two young ladies wanting the attention of the same young man leads to hurt feelings. Will they be able to swallow their pride and forgive each other?

Aaron and Rich are captivating young men who find themselves on opposite sides of the war. It must have been so hard on Cass and JoJo knowing the men they love were essentially enemies. The conflict of the war is emotional and I loved reading how it affected the men. They want to do the right thing and take a stand, but will their women stand by them?

I especially liked the letters between the two couples. It was easier to share their feelings on paper. As the two women are left behind they pray for the safety of all. I especially liked how JoJo had enough faith to believe that God would bring both men home safely. We do get a glimpse of what it was like on the battlefield. There were many lives lost yet in the midst of it all, God was there to encourage those who stood in battle.

The author is one of the best historical writers around. It is evident in the story how much research was done to make it authentic to the time period. The faith element is good and weaves throughout the story in a graceful way. Once again I have grown closer to God after reading one of the author’s books. The lesson I learned is to never give up hope and trust God in everything.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )

For quite a while I have enjoyed reading books from both the Cross-Timbers Family as well as the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collections. Plus, I always enjoy reading books by Caryl McAdoo. This book was no exception. Focusing on the lives of Cass and JoJo, this story started off with me disliking Cass’ obsession with Aaron. Then when he tells her, he is not interested in her, her sulking turned me off more.

JoJo winds up telling Aaron as he prepares to leave for London about her feelings for him. The book then turns to twists about Cass, Rich (JoJo’s brother), JoJo and Aaron as well as other members of their family and their friends during the time of the Civil War. I love how this book explores both friends fighting on opposing sides in the war. It also explores the lengths some families will go to be with their loved ones.

I have to say I really enjoyed the storyline about JoJo, her faith, and her determination to see her desired outcome come true. Caryl McAdoo creates characters and stories that pull the reader into her worlds and makes the reader want to learn more about them. So if you like books about families, the Civil War, and overcoming obstacles while finding true love, check out this book for yourself.

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

It is 1860 and the nation stands on the brink of war - a war over slavery. Life goes on as usual in Texas, except that not everyone agrees on this subject. Lifelong friendships are being questioned when actions put them on opposite sides of this conundrum. Aaron, Rich, JoJo and Cass have been friends as long as they remember. Now it is as if the world and love is against them - how will this work out in the end?

The author has done a fabulous job of highlighting some portions of the Civil War and how it affected the small community of Delaware Creek. There is realism without gore, detail without causing horror yet the reader totally understands the reality of war, prisoners and even the anguish of loved ones listed MIA. Will those deep in the trenches as well as the ones left behind leave the future in the Lord’s hands?

This ARC was received through Cross Timbers Romance and CelebrateLit. This book is part of the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collection and can easily stand alone. The comments and impressions given are my own and were in no way solicited. ( )