I was really looking forward to this book after reading an earlier Daughters of the Mayflower novel by Shannon McNear. While her previous book brought to mind authors such as Laura Frantz, Michelle Griep, or Jocelyn Green; The Rebel Bride fights for its place in a full field of Civil War novels. It alternately is compelling and then more of a textbook. The first sign of struggle is when the author, Shannon McNear, pens a very cautious “note from the author.” While I was impressed McNear wants me to follow her way of thinking, I did not feel she came across as confident in her ability to convince me.
The storyline itself was sound and seemed at times strong, at other times weaker. A Sergeant from the Union Army, Joshua Wheeler, has had an arm amputated. He finds himself and several other very ill, POW Union soldiers billeted in a humble house in Georgia, following the Battle of Chickamauga. Pearl McFarlane, on the other hand, is the one pressed into caring for these grievously ill enemies. Can she handle the events God allows into her life around this time?
I liked the secondary characters that McNear factored into the story.
A father who is progressing through dementia; a wandering, curiously absent brother when work needs doing; and a shunned sister-in-law.
There were times the narrative shone, but it just didn’t flow smoothly, consistently, as I would have liked.
The author's ending note was quite long and a little off-putting because of said length. In retrospect, I believe there may have been too much information the author wanted to share, and the pressure of that came across in the written page. Please remember this is only my opinion and others, including yourself, may see the book quite differently.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley, which in no way influenced my opinions.

What a sweeping saga of a story! I so loved the humble beginnings of Josh & Pearl’s story. He was dragged as a prisoner to her home, which was conscripted into duty as a convalescent home for assorted Union soldiers after the Battle of Chickamauga. Although she’s impressed into providing care to the enemy, she refused to give up on his recovery. Im pretty sure I was in love with the brown eyed Josh myself, from the moment he spoke his name. I have loved each of the books in the Daughters of the Mayflower series, but this one was so particularly rich in detail, and Josh & Pearl must overcome so much in order to be together. It’s clear that Shannon McNear makes every effort toward accuracy, and I loved the connections to the previous books (Pearl is the Granddaughter of Kate & Thomas from the Cumberland Bride). I received a complementary copy of this book from Barbour publishing and NetGalley, and was under no obligation to post a review.

What an amazing historical fiction book! I always love it when I learn new things in books. And this is why I love this genre so much. Romantic but serious too, I devoured this! I recommend it..

I love this series! This one was no exception, it was a page turner. I love a good historical novel and this one fit the bill!

I enjoyed this book enough that I read it any free moment I had! But I just realized it was part of a series so back to the beginning I go! I did think the use of “5” for breaks or changes in characters was unusual but maybe that’s something I missed in prior books of the series.

Another gem in the Daughters of the Mayflower Series!

Shannon McNear has taken the relatable characters of this civil war novel and brought them to life! I felt like I was right there with Pearl as she ministered to the healing (and dying) Union soldiers forced into her Tennessee home by the war. Having already lost brothers to the war, the emotional toll was high, as well as having to deal with her ailing father. The author addresses with the budding romance between Pearl and the Union soldier Josh in a very sensitive fashion which I applaud. It is apparent that a lot of historical research went into the writing of this very enjoyable novel. I would put it high on my list of recommended reading!

I received a copy of this book from JustRead Tours and NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I love this civil war story perspective! Pearl is pressed in on all sides and trying to heed her father’s advice to care for her enemy as wounded enemy soldiers are dropped off on her property. Trouble is, Joshua doesn’t act like an enemy and while recovering from an injury, he captures her heart. Planted deeply in the southern vs northern tensions and the battles occurring right outside the front door, these two must find a way to fight for their hearts. The story is captivating and fairly quick moving. The author focused more on interpersonal relationships when it was treason to associate with the other side and did an excellent job describing the faith struggles both sides encountered during this tumultuous season. I highly recommend this book. It is part of the Mayflower Bride Series but can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own and freely given.

The Rebel Bride is one of my favorites in the Daughter of the Mayflower series. I really liked that even though this novel could have been bleak, it was hopeful throughout. I also appreciated that characters on both sides of the conflict were complex, rather than having a cast of good guys and bad guys. Also, the story kept moving and kept me wondering how the couple would achieve their happy ending.

This thought-provoking novel was unputdownable. McNear's skillful pen fills the pages with vibrant characters and vivid descriptions of the horror and destruction of the American Civil War. I was captivated by Pearl's strength of character when faced with the ugliness of war. As she comes to terms with grief, she is forced to care for the wounded soldiers that have been brought into her home. Her spiritual struggle of caring for her enemy was convicting, as well as discerning the right/wrong side of a war that had torn the country apart.

I am truly enjoying all of the books in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. Each can be read as a standalone and are written by different authors. I look forward to reading more in the series as well as any releases of MS. McNear in the future.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Wow! Shannon McNear taught me so much about the Civil War in this story, though it only encompassed several months of that terrible time in history. As I read the introduction and the author’s thoughts about writing this story, how she selected a middle-class family instead of one living on a plantation, how the issues leading up to the war went so much deeper than slavery, and especially how she had never even wanted to write a story about this terrible war, I knew that this was going to be an amazing book.

I tend to shy away from books about the Civil War. For some reason, I always think of this war as being far more horrendous than any other. So when I heard that the author of The Cumberland Bride, which I loved, was writing one set in this era, I cringed and debated about whether I should read it. Truely, if I had not already read The Cumberland Bride, I would have passed on The Rebel Bride.

From the very start, I was enthralled!

When Pearl’s cousin delivered a wagon full of Yankees for her to convalesce at her house, she was appalled. Not just at the work, which she was untrained for, or the lack of provisions to feed them, or even the fact she would have to give up her bedroom and sleep in the attic. The very thought of harboring the enemy grated on her every nerve!

Oh, how I loved Pearl’s Pa! His wisdom as he exhorted her with Scripture blessed me.



Therefore “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Romans 12:20

Pearl learned so much about how to follow Christ, especially when it wasn’t easy. Her care of the enemy, even if at first her motivation was simply heaping those coals of fire, was pretty amazing.

Josh was one of those enemy soldiers needing care. In fact, he wasn’t even conscious for days after he arrived. The injury he sustained was terrible, yet he adapted. And then began to help the best he could. I loved his very protective nature and the strength of character he exhibited.

Clem, Pearl’s younger brother and the only one who survived the war, was written so well! This young boy appeared to be simply avoiding the work needed around the house. Yet when I found out what this industrious lad was up to … my, my!



Rich descriptions made me feel like I was there, crawling through blackberry bushes, seeing Missionary Ridge, hearing the sounds of battle, feeling the frigid creek, smelling the odors of the house-turned-hospital. I quaked in fear, grieved at the loss, questioned which side was right, rejoiced over the unexpected miracle, and hoped for peace.

Readers who love history will love this story and won’t want to miss it!

I’ll be the first to admit that I am a wimp. I cannot handle blood and gore in novels and this is one reason I tend to steer clear of Civil War fiction. Yet when I was offered a chance to review The Rebel Bride, I thought I would give it a go since I had read and enjoyed other books in the Daughters of the Mayflower series.

Unfortunately, this book did contain quite a bit of the aforementioned blood and gore. Pearl being a nurse in the Civil War, she sees the ravages of war first hand. I did find her to be an overall likable character. She was caring and thoughtful, though she did have ideas that I didn’t agree with.

So while this book wasn’t for me, I think readers who are interested in this time period and love a good romance would probably like the novel.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Thank you to Barbour Books and NetGalley for my complimentary copy.

This next installment in the Daughters of the Mayflower series is by far my favorite. Written by new-to-me author Shannon McNear, the story takes place near the end of the Civil War, which is one of my favorite time periods. With fabulous tension, McNear pens a romance of Confederate versus Yankee, each caught in the turmoil of battle, mixed loyalties, and bitter experiences. The plot steadily thickens with each chapter, keeping you riveted on the interplay between characters, ideals, and values. More than just a wartime romance, this book challenges your perspectives and brings to life an era in American history that will never be forgotten.

I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

I received a complimentary copy of The Rebel Bride from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I really love this series! Sweet, mini, almost-romances nestled in historical settings. I also appreciate the time and research required for each! Specifically pertaining to The Rebel Bride, I easily fell in love with the chivalry of the red-headed enemy soldier. Feeding and caring for wounded prisoners, Pearl was a strong Southern woman--a force to be reckoned with. (Another good book, but again I would wish for just a bit more romance--despite knowing it wouldn't have been acceptable during the time.)

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

The Rebel Bride is another good installment from the Daughters of the Mayflower series. I enjoyed this Civil War era story. It was interesting to see how the author was able to bring real people from the past to life. It had to be quite a hard decision for Pearl to decide what was right. Such a wonderful tale of faith and inspiration.
I enjoyed The Rebel Bride and would give it four stars. I look forward to see where the next book from the Daughters of the Mayflower goes into history next.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

This series is just wonderful. I'm not typically a fan of romance fiction, but I live the historical aspect of this series. I've learned so much about different historical periods. This installment in particular shed new light on opposing sides of the Civil War. More than anything the focus was on the struggle of both sides believing their cause to be just. But also the realization that people of faith lay on both sides of the divide - and how can God be with both sides? Not everyone on the side of the Union fought for freedom of slaves, and not everyone on the Confederate side believed slavery should stand.
Time and again when faced with difficulty questions the characters choose to seek God's wisdom, follow him to the best of their ability and just follow the conviction of their heart.
It led a Rebel girl to fight for the lives of enemy soldiers quartered in her home, it led a Union soldier to fight for the safety of a God- fearing Confederate family, even against his own brothers in arms. And it led those two to trust God for a future together when there seemed no other way.
This book also speaks to anyone providing care for aging relatives, hope for anyone struggling with their job or their calling, and anyone who finds themselves struggling to hear God's voice in the midst of difficult times.
A beautiful story, beautifully researched history, and a beautiful portrait of how God can change the hearts of men.

“Hold the line! For the love of God, hold it!” Not for the first time, Joshua Wheeler wondered if he’d descended into hell. The sun blazing fierce enough to make his head ache even through a cap.” - Opening lines of The Rebel Bride by Shannon McNear

In this continuation of the Daughters of the Mayflower, Shannon McNear places us at the centre of the American civil war. The Rebel Bride opens with our leading man, and Unionist, Joshua, being injured, taken captive and delivered into the care of our leading lady, and rebel, Pearl.

Both Pearl and Joshua have made little room in their lives to comprehend how the other side perceives the war and how similar the feelings of the two sides are as they all watch family friends and fellow soldiers suffer and die. With Christianity in common, the two build a bridge of mutual respect and kindness, as they are determined to heed God’s command to love one another.

Digging into each side of this war on a micro-scale, as it affects two people, is fascinating and moving. The hurt and fear on both sides is so similar even as the two armies fight against one another. I enjoyed how carefully and intelligently Shannon unpacks it through characters with whom it is easy to empathize. There is no right and wrong but rather a very muddy middle.

By the end of the novel, I was so curious about the history discussed, I picked up several non-fiction books and podcasts to understand it better. Having enjoyed those, I see now how well Shannon has done in creating a thoroughly riveting historical fiction which so eloquently captures the turmoil of the time.

In addition to this complex history, romance and friendship are explored. To share too much of the interesting characters introduced would be to spoil the delight of the surprise in meeting them but suffice to say it is a colourful cast! Pearl takes the cake with her spunk but I appreciated how multifaceted each person in the book is.

It is a compelling tale and I read it from start to finish in one sitting! If you love historical fiction, this is one to read! It’s a five out of five on the en-JOY-ment scale and highly recommended!

The Rebel Bride was the first book I have read by Shannon McNear. She took me by complete surprise. I fell in love with the characters right away. McNear swept me away on an adventure to a time where war was everywhere, and there wasn’t someone who wasn’t affected. Writing about the civil war wouldn’t be easy, but McNear took me there flawlessly. I felt the sadness of missing those you love, and not knowing if those loved ones would ever come home. It was interesting seeing a point of view from where women had to tend to the enemies in their own home. Pearl was tough and used to hard times, but doing that would test her limits. I loved watching her grow in love and compassion for her fellow countryman, whether Rebel or Yankee. Joshua being so wounded touched my heart. While his wound didn’t seem as dangerous as some, looks can be deceiving. I could feel his helplessness and confusion as he learned just how different his life would be. I always enjoy a story of forbidden love, and what could be more like that than love between a Rebel and a Yankee? I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Books and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I have been privileged to read all of the Brides of the Mayflower series and loved them all. This book is no exception, a great historical read, an excellent novel and one I cannot recommend enough. This takes place during the Civil War, North against the South but sometimes it is brother against brother or cousin against cousin. Altogether a great tragedy. The heroine Pearl, a true southerner, finds herself and her home being commanded to care for the wounded taken from the fighting fields. Against her will she is forced to tend the sick of the enemy. “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Romans 12:20 . So this is what she did daily. Josh a wounded Union soldier is dependent upon her for survival {as many others were } and against her will she finds herself drawn towards him….. This is such a well written book and so interesting that you will not want to lay it down. A tender beautiful love story with a wonderful ending……….I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Barbour Books, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Thanks to Net Gallery I was able to read this book! I have not read the series,but this one makes me want to read all the bills! This was very well written,enjoyed it and all the background history with it! The story line was well written and the characters were so believable where you know them and want to have the best outcome for them and their lives! I'm sure this was one of many families that were put in this position to not only help and nurse their own soldiers who fought but didn't turn their back on their enemy! It's a really just read book!

We cannot imagine what it was like to live through the Civil War! Pearl MacFarlane is a courageous Christian woman whose family does not believe in owning another human being although they are for the Confederacy! I admired Pearl for the loving care she gave to wounded soldiers when the MacFarlane home is turned into a hospital for Union prisoners. God had to give her strength for all she did and how she fed everyone with meager supplies while also attending to her father whose mind is failing. My heart went out to Union soldier, Joshua Wheeler, an amputee who is recovering from his injuries. How could he trust these Confederates! The Rebel Bride will give you a new look at the War Between the States. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.