This author's writing style is rich with history and a meandering pace that ensures that readers don't miss a thing. I haven't read many books set during Reconstruction so I appreciated the new perspective of the freedmen and those in the South seeking to help them. Much of the story revolves around the work and issues at Fisk University where Alexandra secures a job teaching men, women, and children. It is at the same time encouraging and daunting, with the endeavor receiving both support and opposition. There is an emphasis on the importance of education and the freedom that knowledge brings- for both Alexandra and her students. On the other end of the spectrum is the development of the railroad lines in the area and the politics and Southern etiquette that influences the business that Sy is pursuing. Although they have little in common, seemingly chance meetings give them the opportunity to help each other and an unlikely friendship develops between Alexandra and Sy. I loved how they interacted- Alexandra's propriety not able to mask her strength and spirit, while Sy is unable to keep from admiring her and bringing light and cheer to her life in small and big ways. The romantic moments they share are so heartfelt and wonderfully written. While the highs and lows of the plot didn't feel particularly compelling or pull strong emotions from me (like the previous book in the series, To Win Her Favor), I was glad that I read this book and would recommend it to fans of historical fiction.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Always enjoy Tamera Alexander's books and this one was no different. This was a wonderful read but it was sad reading it as I know this series was over. There are so many things about this book I liked.. Getting together with old friends, the music and of course the love story that played out between Alexander and Sylas were just a few things that I enjoyed. With all of her books I feel as if I am right there with the characters going through their everyday life. I do believe that Tamera has been put here for such a time as this.

To Wager Her Heart is the third novel in the Belle Meade Plantation series. I have not read the first two, and don't believe you need to in order to enjoy this book. I was drawn to the characters from the first page. Alexander is a master at painting scenes where I feel like I'm there. It was interesting learning more about our country was when slavery had finally ended. It's sad to think that the problems didn't end just because the war did. I have an all new respect for teachers who left their comfortable lives to make sure that everyone had the opportunity to receive an education. In this book Alexandra Jamison had her life turned upside down, and she grew through it.

Alexandra misses her fiancé David. She couldn't wait for their dreams to come true when they started their new lives together. Now that he is gone, it's no longer possible. Being forced to accept a arranged marriage or leave, Alexandra decides to take action. Maybe her dreams can come true in an all new way. Little does she know with this adventure there will be many challenges along the way. Will fleeing all she's ever known be a blessing, or will she regret her decision?

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction. The characters faith was fun to see, and I enjoyed how they grew throughout the story. I had fun watching Alexandra and Sy slowly begin to care for each other. Sometimes we see someone one way because of how they dress or look, but once you get to know them they are so much more. Alexandra learned this lesson the most, and I felt inspired watching her learn to change that reaction. I received a copy of this book from Zondervan Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion. I was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

To Wager Her Heart

by Tamera Alexander

Zondervan Fiction

Zondervan



Christian

Pub Date 08 Aug 2017

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy of To Wager Her Heart through Zondervan and Netgalley:

Alexandra Donnelson is a Southern Belle turned teacher pursuing her passion for teaching at Fisk University, the first free men's university in the United States, but her family does not approve.

Sylas Rutledge is a former gambler and new owner of East Line Railway. Her Friendship with Mary Harding throws her together with both Sylas Rutledge and General Harding.

Who will Alexandra choose?

Find out in To Wager Her Heart.

Five out of five stars.

Happy Reading!

Headline: Wasn't Ready for It to .End!
Enjoyed this book so much, in fact, it was hard to put down. Author drew me sin right away, and I cared about the main character and what would happen to her!
I like books where I learn history along with enjoying a good storyline. I've read several books by Tamera Alexander, and think she's a great writer. I always learn some bit of Nashville history while reading her Belmont Mansion series or this, the Belle Mead Plantation series. I have read two books from each of those series.

I look forward to her Carlton novels, also set in Nashville.

I received this advance copy from netgalley.com in exchange for a review. ❤️ Lyall recommend!

I cannot say enough good things about To Wager Her Heart. The two main characters are so courageous and endearing that it makes the book such a pleasant book to read. I have rarely read a book that had such a profound effect on me like To Wager Her Heart.

Alexandria Jamison is the daughter of a prominent family in Nashville. She lives at home because she lost her fiance in a tragic train accident a year ago. She was also on the train that took his life and it has profoundly impacted her. Alexandria's parents are pushing her to marry and are encouraging a suitor that she wants no part of. When Alexandria leaves her home to get fresh air she is drawn to music. She attends a concert that is being given by Fisk University. It is a university for Freedman. Alexandria gets clarity while at the concert and decides she wants to pursue a career in teaching at Fisk University. That decision will cost her everything.

Sylas Rutledge is in Nashville on his own mission. He needs to get the contract for a railroad build but he is also there to try and clear his father of blame for the train accident that occurred. He believes the error was not his father's and he intends to clear his name. Alexandria and Sylas could not be more opposite. Alexandria reveals to Sylas all that she lost in the train accident and Sylas relates to her his mission to clear his father from the blame he took for the accident. Alexandria and Sylas enter into an agreement where she agrees to tutor him on how to be a Southern gentleman. Those skills will help him as he tries to get the contract for the Belle Meade project in Nashville. Alexandria finds herself in need of funds because she left home with nothing including money. Sylas pays her for the lessons and she uses the money to get set up as a teacher in the barracks at Fisk University. Alexandria finds fulfillment as a teacher and Sylas encourages her to follow her dream and continue her education. As Sylas and Alexandria become closer they find they are falling in love. They share much in common including their acceptance of all people regardless of color. They both find that decision comes at a cost. Sylas helps Alexandria overcome her fear of trains so that she can travel with the singers at Fisk as they travel to try and raise funds for the University.

I was shaken as you feel the prejudice that they suffered. There is a section in the book where they go out at night and dig something up to raise money for Fisk. What they uncovered and how they used it had me in tears.

This is a great book. I won't say more for fear of spoiling it, but it is a must read. Knowing that so much of the book is true got me. This book really showcases the talent that Tamera Alexander has to put a story on paper.

To Wager Her Heart, book three in the Belle Meade Plantation series is a fabulous ending to this enthralling series. Filled with historical places, events, and people, Alexander brings to life her stories as soon as ink hits paper. Beautifully written, with exquisite details, this carefully researched story will steal the heart of readers from page one. During a turning point in history for both blacks and women, readers will thoroughly delight in this revolutionary sweet romance novel! Readers will not want to miss this wonderful historical romance novel from Alexander.

Series: Belle Meade Plantation
Genre: historical, romance, Christian
Publisher: Zondervan
Publication date: August 8, 2017
Number of pages: 384

I love so much about this story—that it takes place in the south, it is a historical, and Tamera Alexander wrote it. Although I haven’t read the other two books in this series, I am familiar with Ms. Alexander’s writing after reading A Note Yet Unsung. She is a rich storyteller, and creates entertaining and unique characters. She incorporates music, faith, and history is a page-turning way.

The pacing is nice, the romance is light and satisfying, and the story put me through many emotions. A superb blend of fact and fiction!

Now I want to go back and read the first two books in the series. (This works well as a standalone.)

4 Stars


Cover: Love
Title: Love
Pages: 384
Series: A Belle Meade Plantation Novel Book 3
Publisher: Zondervan
ISBN: 978-0310291084
I received a complimentary copy via BookLook and Netgalley.

I love Tamera Alexander's work...and devour her novels quickly. She is a master storyteller. And a gifted writer. Thank you for the privilege of reading this novel...I have highly recommended it to everyone I know.

Tamera Alexander's Belle Meade Plantation series has ended with To Wager Her Heart, and what a wonderful ending it is.. Ms. Alexander will always be one of my favorite authors. She doesn't hesitate to tackle less-than-cheery family issues involving marriage and parental authority, yet all through the lens of romance.

Contrary to the way the official blurb makes it seem, I didn't really see Sy as the roguish type. He was driven to succeed, yes, but with integrity. Intense, yes, but cool under pressure. Authoritative, yes, but kind and faithful. Alexandra had backbone, which allowed her to follow her heart. She also had the compassion and intelligence to go against convention.

There was one historical issue Ms. Alexander brought up in a way that made me think she was foreshadowing a future point in the plot. I was bit disappointed when nothing happened, yet it didn't keep me from enjoying the story she did write.

Overall, To Wager Her Heart was my favorite of the Belle Meade Plantation novels.

Another fantastic book from Tamera Alexander! Thank you NetGalley for providing an ebook copy but I waited on the audible.com download and purchased this title for a wonderful listen. Readers will gain insight into the struggles African-American student faced, in specific at Tufts University in Nashville, and those who aided them. Entwined in the story is a beautiful romance between a very unlikely couple. The background also includes great tidbits about railroads and the men who built and ran them as well as the very real dangers faced in railroad travel after the Civil War. I plan to re-read (re-listen!) this story, something I don't often do!

I had planned to take this book with me on a weekend trip last weekend, but I made the mistake of starting it the evening before we left.
It had been a while since I read a book that I found so difficult to put down. I had wondered if my passion for fiction was waning, as the last few books I read were ones that I could read a couple of chapters and easily put down to do something else.
This book was not one of those.
Tamera Alexander has always been one of my favorite authors, and she remains so with this To Wager Her Heart. It is the latest in her Belle Meade Plantation series and I was pulled into the Belle Meade world in Nashville. Tamera Alexander weaves a beautiful story. Though the romance between Sylas and Alexandra is a central theme, the author expertly creates well-rounded characters, giving both Sylas and Alexandra compelling personal circumstances and stories as well. Secondary characters were fleshed out and well-rounded also.
This book contains a wonderful blend of historical accuracy and artistic license to tell a beautiful, yet at times heart-breaking, story.
One of the most poignant aspects of this story for me was to see a glimpse of the post-Civil War struggle of former slaves, and the sacrifices made by both those black citizens who were seeking a better life, and the whites who sacrificed everything to stand up for what was right and good. A part of me rejoiced that we don't live in that world anymore.
And then I turned on the news after this weekend and saw about the tragedy in Charlottesville. It angers and grieves me that this kind of hatred and violence still exists, and that there are still people who judge a person's worth by the color of their skin.
It's heartbreaking that there are still people who are unsafe in this country because of the color of their skin. If there is one consolation, it's that there are still people willing to stand up and sacrifice for the cause of oppressed people around them. It's sad that this is needful, but I believe the Lord will raise up people "for such a time as this."
And I will continue to look forward to a time when such a fight will no longer be necessary.

Once again we are visiting the Belle Meade Plantation with this book, the third book in this series. We've come back to visit with a few familiar friends and make new friends while we are here. This historically accurate book mixes true events and places with fiction that wraps up to make this a book that you will read late into the night and it holds you captivated.
I am a huge fan of historical fiction so I really appreciate the many visits the author made to Belle Meade Plantation and the countless hours she spent on research for this book.
When I first saw the cover I have to admit I though she was in a wheelchair, that is what it looked like to me. I do believe now though that she is in a train car on Sylas Ruthledge's Northeast Line Railroad.
This is master storyteller Tamera Alexander at her very best. I highly recommend it to you.
Pub Date 08 Aug 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Zondervan Fiction for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.

To Wager Her Heart by Tamera Alexander is the latest A Belle Meade Plantation Novel. It is August of 1871 in Nashville, Tennessee. Alexandra Jamison is still grieving the loss of her fiancé, David Thompson who died one year prior in a train accident at Dutchman’s curve. Alexandra blames the train engineer, Harrison Kennedy for the incident. Barrett Jamison, Alexandra’s father, is pushing her to marry Horace Buford. Alexandra, though, wishes to do something meaningful with her life. After a disagreement with her father, Alexandra is out walking when she hears singing. It is the Fisk University Jubilee singers giving a concert and after the program there is an appeal for teachers. Alexandra has found what she wants to do, but is she ready for what it will cost her.

Sylas Rutledge has arrived in Nashville to bid on the Belle Meade railroad project and to clear his stepfather, Harrison Kennedy’s name. Sylas is unprepared for Southern society after living in Colorado. He needs someone to help him navigate Nashville society. Sylas feels that Alexandra will be the perfect tutor, but Alexandra is less than willing to pair up with him. But after her father casts her out of his house when she refuses to marry Mr. Buford, Sylas’ offer to pay for her tutoring is answer to her prayers. Over time, Alexandrea grows to respect and start to care for Sylas. Their bond will be tested and Sylas could lose everything.

To Wager Her Heart is nicely written and has a beautiful setting. The romance portion is light and subtle which I appreciated (it was predictable though). The main focus of the book is on Fisk University and the Jubilee singers (the hardship they endured on their journey). Ms. Alexander did a superb job with her research and incorporating it into her story. I like how she incorporated historical figures and events into her narrative. It was interesting to learn about the college as well as the struggles faced by the university, the faculty, and the students. It is a shame this historical tidbit was never included in school curriculum. The author did a remarkable job at capturing the time-period and locale. I did find the pace of the novel to be a little slower than I would have liked, but I have discovered that it is normal in novels rich in historical detail. The Christian element was just heavier than I would have liked (I prefer a lighter touch), but I liked the themes which included the power of prayer and trusting in God. My rating for To Wager Her Heart is 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). While To Wager Her Heart is part of a series, it can be a stand-alone novel. It is nice, though, to catch up on the characters from the other books in the series especially Uncle Bob. I am glad that I read To Wager Her Heart. It encouraged me to find out more about the Jubilee singers and Belle Meade.

Tamera Alexander’s novels are certainly listed among my favorites simply for the rich historical tapestry that she weaves behind the stories. To Wager Her Heart captures a fascinating glimpse of time when freedman schools were not widely accepted and the railroad was still booming.

In this particular novel, I just adored the characters. Alexandra Jamison is probably going to be a favorite heroine for a while—she grows so much in the novel! And Sylas Rutledge is an all-around good guy who is a bit out of place in genteel Southern society. The way the stories of these two characters twist together makes for a great plot that is sometimes sweet and other times funny.

I was impressed with the glimpse of history as I walked the streets of Nashville with these characters. And then, as I learned more of the “behind the scenes” of the book and the history that really is captures in these pages, I was blown away. There are a lot of details brought to life in these pages, making this a wonderful book.

While this is the third book of the Belle Meade Plantation novels, it certainly can be read at any point. It could be considered a standalone novel. But regardless if you decide to just pick this one up right away or prefer to read them in order, this is a book that I can highly recommend.


**I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**

Sylas Rutledge, the new owner of the Northeast Line Railroad, invests everything he has into this venture, partly for the sake of the challenge. But mostly to clear his father's name. One man holds the key to Sy's success--General William Giles Harding of Nashville's Belle Meade Plantation. But Harding is champagne and thoroughbreds, and Sy Rutledge is beer and bullocks.

Sy needs someone to help him maneuver his way through Nashville's society, and when he meets Alexandra Jamison, he quickly decides he's found his tutor. Only, he soon discovers that the very train accident his father is blamed for causing is what killed Alexandra Jamison's fiancé--and has shattered her world.

Struggling to restore honor . . .

Spurning an arranged marriage by her father, Alexandra instead pursues her passion for teaching at Fisk University, the first freedmen's university in the United States. But family--and Nashville society--do not approve, and she soon finds herself cast out from both.

Through connections with the Harding family, Alexandra and Sy become unlikely allies. And despite her first impressions, Alexandra gradually finds herself coming to respect, and even care for this man. But how can she, when her heart is still spoken for? And when Sy's roguish qualities and adventuresome spirit smack more of recklessness than responsibility and honor?

Sylas Rutledge will risk everything to win over the woman he loves. What he doesn't count on is having to wager her heart to do it.

What an interesting book. The struggles of Sy and Alexandra are told in a very good way. Alexandra is trying to overcome the death of her fiance while trying to escape her father's iron hand. He wants her to marry a man old enough to be her father. He gives her an ultimatum that is life altering. Sylas wants nothing more than to clear the name of the man who is blamed for the disastrous train wreck that killed so many people. Including Alexandra's fiance.

This book also highlights the struggle of the freedmen following the Civil War. The slaves had been freed but there was still a lot of oppression.

I highly recommend this book.

I loved this story!! I had a very hard time putting it down!! I'm not sure i've cried so much while reading a book! there were some really sad points and you couldn't help but feel the emotions the characters were feeling

This is my first time reading Tamera Alexander and what an enjoyable experience. A great combination of historical/inspirational fiction with a rich setting based in the real life Belle Meade Plantation and Fisk University. Lovers of historical fiction with a touch of innocent romance will delight in this story.

To Wager Her Heart is a tender, sweet romance, but mostly it is Historical. The book is telling you the stories of Sy and Alexandra, yes but it is also telling you the stories of the Belle Meade Plantation, the Jubilee Singers and Fisk University. How the author weaves truth and fiction to make such a wonderful abundantly fun, mischievous, and outlandish. Who knew about all those railroad accidents. So, do the characters get what they have been planning with each other to get? Does GOD see fit to give it to them? You have to read it to find this and many many more fun things out.

To Wager Her Heart is third in the Belle Meade Plantation series. With most series I like to read them in the order they were released but it is not necessary with this series. Each book can be read as a stand-alone novel. There is nothing in the book that would spoil it in case you wanted to read the earlier books in the series.

This book takes place in 1871. The Civil War has long ended but the scars remain. The heroine of the story Alexandra Jamison has suffered a great loss when her betrothed died in a train wreck at Dutchman's Bend where over 100 people lost their lives. The tragic train wreck that killed 101 people and injured many more actually occurred in 1918, some 47 years after the fictionalized account in this story. The heroine of the story acquires a position teaching at Fisk University against the wishes of her overbearing father. Her father was trying to force her into a loveless marriage and her mother went along with it. As a native Nashvillian I knew very little about the history of Fisk University and the Jubilee singers so I enjoyed reading about them in this story. The hero of the story was Sylas Rutledge. He was a wealthy railroad man who came to Tennessee to clear his father's name. His father may or may not have been responsible for the tragic train wreck. He meets Alexandra and slowly develops a friendship with her.

Being from the Nashville area I have enjoyed both Tamera's Belle Meade Plantation series and her Belmont series. I have always enjoyed historical novels and look forward to reading historical novels she writes in future.

Thanks to Netgalley and Zondervan for providing me a digital copy of this book to read and review. To Wager Her Heart will be released on August 8, 2017..