This was an excellent clean historical romance that alternated between present day and revolutionary was time period. Characters chole, ester, jesse, and Hamilton were well drawn and had excellent chemistry. I kept reading to find out how things would turn out for each character set and was pleased at the end. I thought the conversion to christ parts a bit overdone and some of the characters actions a bit dramatic. Overall a good read and one I would recommend. Thank you net galley for an advanced copy of this novel

This story involves A split time narrative. It begins with an actress who finds the role of a lifetime, based on a true story. The action switches from the Revolutionary War to the modern period. Some parts were very engaging, others wer per fairly predictable. A good read if you're a fan of historical fiction and romance.

I was grateful to receive a copy of this to review. The story and great promise but I have to say for me there were simply too many characters and too many scenarios. The story and characters seemed somewhat superficial as a result. I wasn’t engaged and I found myself skim reading the second half. A shame because the premise is good and certain chapters interesting.

Love Letter by Rachel Hauck is a beautiful story of love found and lost set in both the present day and during the Revolutionary War. But is it lost forever? Hamilton and Esther live on adjoining properties in Cowpens SC and grew up as best friends. Esther family is more affluent but the two families have always spent time together and are good friends. The war, and other issues, finds them on opposite sides as Sir Michael, Esther’s father, is sure England will end it quickly. Fast forward to modern times and film writer Jesse Gates has, by way of Aunt Pat, a love letter written by Hamilton that was never delivered to Esther. He has written the screen play and the studio has agreed to produce it. Chloe, who is famous for dying in every movie she has been in, is slated to play Esther. Will lost love be redeemed through the grace of God and centuries of time? What new surprises will unfold as the story is evolving?
I really enjoyed this book. There is so much going on I could hardly take a break! Rachel Hauck does an excellent job of blending the two time frames and the characters a way is seamless. The characters are very realistic and at times I wanted to cry over their pain. When things were going well I wanted to shout and high five with them. The author is also true to the historical facts of the war in SC while using fictional characters. Esther has a very strong faith in God which comes across as a strength and not preachy. Hamilton was raised by his Uncle, a minister and Aunt but at times questions God. I give this book a solid 5 of 5 stars. History, love and redemption. Awesome!
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I requested this book not realizing it was an inspirational book. Not normally my choice, however, what a great storyline. It held my interest from start to finish. I enjoyed the 4 main characters, 2 Revolutionary and 2 modern . Great ending. Love a happy ever after. I would recommend this book and I would certainly buy it.

I’m a fan of Rachel Hauck, so when I saw she had a new book coming out soon I was excited. However I ended up not being a fan of this one. There were simply too many characters and the two stories and time periods were hard to keep track of. It could that I’m less into this format. I think I would have enjoyed the book more if we just focused on one story. 4 narrators and 2 time periods was too much for me.

The ARC was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

I love books with two time periods. The Love Letter by Rachel Hauck is set in the later 18th century during the American Revolutionary War and present day. Two tumultuous love stories in two time periods. Story is told in chapters with each main characters thoughts and words. I especially appreciated the characters real human frailties and how the Lord called and led in each life. Rachel Hauck is an excellent author whom I have enjoyed in the past and look forward to reading her books again. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the author, publisher and netgalley for making this book available to me.

4.5 stars!! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I adored this latest novel from Rachel Hauck, this is a well-written love story that intertwines two time periods beautifully that touch your heart. I absolutely adored Chloe & Jesse's journey. If your looking for a beach read this is definitely one to add to your to-read list.

Last summer, I read The Writing Desk, and I thought I had settled on my all-time favorite Rachel Hauck book . . . but at the risk of sounding like a “love the book you’re with” kind of girl, I just finished reading an advanced copy of The Love Letter, and now it’s my new favorite! Man oh man, that girl can write; even the minor characters of this book (a young African-American South Carolina girl in the late 1700s who basically has the medical skills of a surgeon and an Italian Jew from the Bronx who turns out to be an angel) will entertain and inspire you. The two female characters—historical Esther and modern (and so relatable—with her insecurities and her Diet Coke habit) Chloe—are strong women from the start, but as the novel goes on, it’s fun to watch them grow into even more likeable, courageous characters. The same goes for the men that they love; you will root for these guys and enjoy watching them mature and heal. The setting is dear to my heart because I live in South Carolina, where most of the novel takes place. What I enjoyed most about this book is that there are a few little nuggets left to the reader’s imagination; you’ll still feel satisfied with the ending, but you’ll be able to fill in a couple of details on your own. I also want to add that the cover is beautiful; when did book covers start becoming such works of art? The cover isn’t a deal-breaker when I love an author, but it’s a nice bonus to have a pretty book to carry around!

I don’t agree with the reviewers who have called this one a “light” read. There are war scenes (which can’t be easy to write), relationship conflicts, and tragedies, but thankfully, she’s an author who will never leave you in heartbreak. Also, if you’re a person of faith, then you’ll appreciate the spiritual depth of this story—and if you’re not, I highly doubt you’ll be offended and will probably agree that the references add to the complexity of the plot.

Rachel Hauck’s recent trend of dual-time novels can be summed up nicely with this quote from this book: “Frightening, isn't it? That something I decide today impacts future generations. Beyond my own flesh and blood.” But don’t let the word “frightening” dissuade you from reading these novels, because I guarantee that you’ll close the last page feeling uplifted, challenged, and content. If you’ve enjoyed her other dual-time books, then move this one to the top of your to-read list.

I have very much enjoyed previous books by Rachel Hauck that have a unique mix of historical and contemporary storylines which end up tying together beautifully, so I was excited to dig into The Love Letter. As historical books are not typically my favorite (especially a war story), I did not enjoy that part of it as much, however that is just my personal preference. I did still really enjoy the storyline between the historical characters. The Love Letter was filled with well-developed characters and interesting stories that beautifully tied together both historical and current day storylines in a way that pulled me in and I could not wait to see what really happened with each character.

It was obvious the entire story how the historical storyline with Esther and Hamilton is tied together with the current day storylines of Chloe and Jesse as the screenplay was based on the letter, however I did like that there was still some new developments that were not fully revealed until the end (although it was predictable and I fully expected it), it was a heartwarming touch to the story.

Learning the whole story of Esther and Hamilton was endearing to see the restoration and to see how things worked out for them when they followed God in their lives. I mostly enjoyed the storyline of Chloe and Jesse as they worked together and got to know each other. This story is filled with redemption and loyalty and I enjoyed how the influence of others made an impact on Jesse’s journey towards faith. When Chloe and Jesse were sharing with each other about their past hurts, I liked how it was them each sharing little parts of their story, however there were a couple of times at the beginning especially where it was confusing as to which person was speaking.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley.
Opinions expressed in this review are my honest opinion and completely my own.

There were some nice characters and connections in this story. I wanted to keep reading to see how everything resolved. I liked Chloe and Jesse and wanted things to work out well for them in the end. I’m not usually a romance reader, so this was a bit of a stretch for me.

"He'd love to confess his sins and seek forgiveness if it'd bring healing. If his confessor would not despise him by the time he was through. But how could a person not? Jesse despised himself."

Actress Chloe Daschle is known for her death scenes. Never once has she been allowed to live in a movie. Or have a romance succeed. And her career is not exactly on the upswing, either. She is given a tiny peek at a love story, an epic one, a true one, a love story over 240 years old. Chloe is desperate to play the lead, Esther Longfellow, in this move and not just because she won't have to die. She feels a connection to Esther. She auditions for the director and gets the part.

The screen writer, Jesse Gates, based the script on an old letter that has been in his family for over two hundred years. He feels it needs to be told. But Jesse doesn't feel romance could ever be in his future, nor does he feel he can ever be forgiven.

Over two hundred years earlier, Hamilton Lightfoot and Esther Longfellow have fallen in love, but Esther's father is a Loyalist and forbids any relationship with Hamilton, who supports the Patriots. Hamilton has loved Esther for years, but never telling her, and writes a letter to her on the battlefield, making his love clear to her. Things take a turn then that just breaks hearts.

Set in my own home state of SC, this stunning tale of love lost and won and with an exceptional ending, moved me greatly. Hauck always includes a serious touch of the Divine in her novels and I was comforted to find it here in this offering as well. One of the battles in this novel, the battle of Kings Mountain, actually took place not 15 miles from my home. I've walked the battlefield trail many times. It somehow made the book seem so much more real to me. I am a forever fan of Rachel Hauck.

*I was provided with a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers. I was not expected to leave a review and the opinion stated above is entirely my own.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. I enjoy Rachel Hauck's books for what they are - kind of a beach read mixed with historical relevance, some romance, and a Christian background. This title did not disappoint. I wasn't sure if I would enjoy the intertwining storylines, as the chapters switch around to four different characters, but I liked how it all came together at the end.

Wonderful story with multiple powerful messages. Past and present blended well together - seamless. A few twists added dimension to the narrative truly tugging at your heart.

Forgiveness, love, and trust in Him are powerful reminders brilliantly woven in a touching narrative.

Esther and Hamilton, Chloe and Jesse - both couples won my heart. The alternating of past and present was thoroughly enjoyed and really added impact to characters and narrative.

Another favorite by the very talented Rachel Hauck, looking forward to her next book.

I feel like I need to open today with a disclaimer. I am a bit of a Rachel Hauck fangirl. In my opinion she has never written a book that wasn't excellent. Since most of them hit the bestseller lists, I know I'm not alone in my adoration of her stories!

Rachel's latest book, The Love Letter, starts with a beautiful cover. For real, if I could insert emojis here, I would have to use all the heart eyes! Sometimes, simple and stunning is the best way to go. This cover is the best introduction for an amazing story.

I love historical fiction, but, honestly, The Revolutionary War is not my favorite time period. But in The Love Letter the time period really shines! It doesn't hurt that much of it takes place in South Carolina, where I live. I had no idea there was such a place as Ninety Six, but I am now dying to visit there. Road trip, anyone?

I'm getting ahead of myself. Like many of Rachel's other stories, The Love Letter is a dual time romance. In 1781, Hamilton Lightfoot and Esther Longfellow are on separate sides of the revolution. Hannah's father is a loyalist, while Hamilton's parents were killed by the Redcoats. A terrible tragedy drives Hamilton to join the rebellion. On the eve of a major battle, he writes a letter to Esther, hoping to send it himself, or to have it delivered after his death.

Fast forward to present-day Hollywood. Actress Chloe Daschle has been typecast as a dying girl for most of her life. When she reads the script by a new screenwriter, Jesse Gates, she just knows she can play the part of Esther. She's ready to shake off the embarrassment and mistakes of her past, and live. Jesse wrote Bound by Love based on the story of an ancestor and a never-delivered letter. He's hoping to give Hamilton and Esther the ending they deserved. But, Jesse has another reason for writing Bound by Love. He's hoping to right a wrong in his own past. As Chloe and Jesse work together on the movie, they draw closer together, but can they each let go of their pasts to find the future God has planned for them?

This book did not go how I expected. Ya'll, I cried at the end. Yes, I know it's just fiction. But it's so great to read a book that includes such a wonderful spiritual truth. Even though Chloe had come to Christ, and her life was certainly changed, she was still allowing her past to hold her captive. Seeing her realize that she was free in Christ, no matter what movie rolls she got or didn't get was an eye-opening moment for me.

It was also incredible to see Chloe share her faith with Jesse. He was so broken over what had happened in his past. Seeing his journey towards Christ was one of the best parts of this book. I don't want to give anything away if you haven't read it, (yet!) but his visit with Loxley's parents was such a pivotal moment for me. I think I started crying there, and barely stopped until the end.

I love, love, love to read. I think you know that by now. But when I read a book that I really enjoy and that also contains spiritual truths, it's so uplifting. I think we all have things in our past that we're ashamed or embarrassed about. But God says those things don't have to control us. When we trust Him, and follow Him, we realize that His plans are best. He has a way to make everything--even the stuff we'd rather not remember--work out for our good. When we release the plans we have for our lives, and trust His, He will give us things we never imagined possible. Esther, Hamilton, Chloe and Jesse all learned this lesson.

I finished reading The Love Letter, wiped away my tears, and realized that I felt encouraged in my spiritual walk. I realized I've let things hold me back--things that God says I'm free from. This book is a gentle reminder that in Him I am free, forgiven and loved. What a wonderful thought!

If you want to read great fiction, and a great love story, read The Love Letter. If you want to read a book that will help you become what God wants you to be, read The Love Letter. It's not often that a book like this comes along. It's a true feel-good story, with an underlying message that we all need to hear. You don't want to miss it.

You can order your copy of The Love Letter, here.



I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I would like to thank Thomas Nelson publishers for sending me the book to read on netgalley. It's a nice story but predictable and the usual happy ever after ending.

This was a contrived book that never really seemed to go anywhere. For the love letter to be key to the novel, there needed to be some passion among Esther and Hamilton. The modern day love story was not romantic either. It seemed Jesus was thrown in as an after thought. The publisher and NetGalley allowed me to be an early reader in exchange for my fair and honest review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

In Rachel Hauck's latest dual narrative Christian romance, we move between Revolutionary War South Carolina and present day California. In the past, Esther Longfellow - daughter of a Loyalist - is in love with Hamilton Lightfoot, who leans Patriot. What will become of their love?

In present day, Chloe Daschle pours her heart and soul into an unlikely role, hoping to right her acting career. She is playing "Esther" in the screen play written by Hamilton's descendant, Jesse Gates. Is romance brewing there too?

Of course romance is brewing! Didn't I already mention the genre is Christian romance? The end result is generally predictable, but the journey there is what's important.

The characters, while I liked them, confused me with their decisions. Mainly in the current day plot line. Who leaves a wedding reception (when part of the bridal party) with a stranger to eat pizza at said stranger's house? Also, Esther is the only one who didn't waver in what she wanted.

I did like the Smitty character. I had my suspicions about him and am glad with how that character line ended up.

The historical plot was interesting to me. Revolutionary War books (and even history lessons) seem to focus on the New England colonies. In fact, I don't know that I've ever considered there were colonies in the south that were involved in the fighting. But there were. And I enjoyed the unusual, but still accurate, locale of the past story line.

This book overall was decent. I liked it and was engaged in the quick read. But I lean towards the "okay" side of I liked it instead of the "I really liked it" side of liked it.

If you'd like to read more of my reviews, visit my blog at https://mommyreadsbooks.blogspot.com/

This book had a different feel than previous dual-timeline novels I have read from Ms. Hauck. It is hard to explain exactly what it was about it that made it feel different for me, maybe it was the fact that we don’t really witness a lot of the budding romance or the fact that the way the past and present storylines interweave is obvious the whole way though. But whatever it was exactly, I could not put this book down I had to know what happened to each character.

I don’t know much about the Revolutionary War and at times found these scenes to be a bit hard to understand what exactly was happening, but I could feel the pain that the characters of Esther and Hamilton were going through. They loved each other but life seemed to be determined to keep them apart. I was rooting for their story to have a happy ending and even though it didn’t end the way I hoped, I found myself satisfied with the way things did turn out.

The present day setting has the characters of Jesse and Chloe. Jesse has written his first screenplay and Chloe gets cast as the leading lady. These two meet for the first time at a wedding and there seems to be an instant connection between them. I wondered if their feelings were hyped because of the setting or if something could really be there? I have mixed feelings about the way they told the stories of their past hurts to one another. I feel like the interweaving and sharing little pieces at a time helped them both relax enabling them to share, but I did find it to be a bit confusing to follow at times. I enjoyed the scenes between them and wish there had been more of their budding relationship. Both captured my heart and I was cheering for them to overcome their struggles. I loved that Chloe fights for what she wants but she also opens her heart to hear what God wants from her and is willing to accept whatever outcome He has planned. Jesse captured my heart the moment he stood his ground on an issue that felt important.

Each character is dealing with various forms of guilt and each one has to take their own path to discovering the powerful love and forgiveness that can only come from God. Love, redemption, sacrifice and loyalty are themes that resonate throughout this story. Overall I really enjoyed this book, but I do wish there was more scenes of the budding relationship. (I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are my honest opinion and completely my own.)

Be still my heart! I absolutely fell in love with Rachel's writing in this book! This dual story line is told so beautifully that you will need lots of tissue as your ugly cry through this novel. I've never read such beautiful work written in this fashion before. This book was a major one click read! This story has so many emotions that you will have "all the feels" while reading it. The writing in this book is so smooth and fluid that it flows between each character and time period flawlessly. The romance in this book was so sweet and endearing! This is a definite recommendation from me. 5 stars,

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.