I absolutely adore this series! (I'm not-so-secretly hoping they add some more to the list as well). I love how the series has been laid out in a way that each of the authors contributing are able to create their own stories that both stand alone, and fit together at the same time. I've been able to read stories from author's I've read in the past, along with being introduced to some that are new to me. Shannon McNear is one of them. Her writing style fit in very well with the series, but it's also peaked my interest to look into more by her.

One character that had me really intrigued throughout the story though was Thomas Bledsoe. His connections (both physical and emotional), to both the "whites" and the Indians really added another layer to the whole story. If his past hadn't been what it was, it would have literally changed the whole book. Often when children learn about history, they hear one side of the story--the one that won out for space in their history books. An entire people can be misunderstood and essentially demonized simply because their side is never considered. Shannon shares some more about this in her author's note at the end, but she shares that she felt it was more important to share something more historically accurate than modernly accepted. I can really respect this. I also was able to learn from it too!

I really felt bad for Kate's character because of how injury-prone she appeared to be throughout the story.  As Shannon shared in her notes at the end, there were a whole lot of dangers and illnesses that travelers faced on their journeys. It certainly wasn't a trip to be taken lightly. Shannon shared that each of the events she had in the story really happened to other travelers, though not all from one story. It's a good thing Kate was a strong young woman, because I would not have enjoyed her journey!

I really enjoyed The Cumberland Bride and I'm curious to see what's next, both for the series and for Shannon McNear! Although the books can easily be read as stand-alone novels, I'd suggest starting at the beginning and reading all of them anyways simply because it really is a great series. I hope you enjoy them too!

*I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to share a positive review. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

Another wonderful historical adventure romance in the Mayflower series! One of my favorites in this series so far, this epic road trip begins in 1794 Tennessee and ends in Kentucky as the group travels along the newly expanded Wilderness Road through the Cumberland Gap.

This well written tale pulled me in and had me holding my breath at times, as the tension mounts later on with perilous situations. The romance is a slow build to a sizzling, sigh-worthy one, well worth the angst. I fell a little in love with Thomas, the strong, brooding sacrificial hero. He was a bit of a Joseph type whose past was the key to the present needs of the moment. A flawed hero whose faith struggles move from doubt to hope and trusting in God as "the Way, the Truth and the Life."
Kate was a sweet, lovely, courageous young woman whose own faith grows through her ordeal, as she clings to the promise that God is with her and never abandons His children. The history is seamlessly threaded throughout the story without any dry narrative. I enjoyed reading the author's notes at the end with research highlights.

Historical Christian romance fans will probably enjoy this book. Recommend!

This is the first book I've read in the Daughters of the Mayflower Series and also the first time to read a book by Shannon McNeer, it was an excellent book. You felt like you were right there with the characters of the book. I stayed glued to this book until the very end, it will have you laughing, crying, holding your breath and cheering. I felt she stayed very true to history and I really enjoyed reading the Author's Note at the end of the book. I look forward to reading more of the books in this series and more by this author. I received an ARC copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. The opinions in this review are my own.

If you have ever dreamed of going back in time to travel west through the Cumberland Gap, then you should read The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear.  From near drownings to kidnappings to daring escapes from Indians, be sure to prepare yourself for adventure before you read this book. And you should read it because it's an adventure you don't want to miss. Here the top reasons why I recommend this book.

It's very fast paced. You're just escaping one danger with the characters when you find yourself in another danger. 
The descriptions of the areas the group is traveling through is absolutely beautiful. The author gives just enough detail that you can see it without slowing the story down.
The historical aspects of the Shawnee culture, the construction of the Cumberland Gap and traveling west before it was settled are all interesting.
So, pack you bags for the trail, but pack lightly. Only so much will fit on your pack horse.  

I would recommend this book for people who enjoy adventures, especially adventures that take place in historical times. I would also recommend this for those who enjoy sweet romances.

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

The Cumberland Bride is a fabulous addition from the Daughters of the Mayflower series. This fifth installment takes the reader on the Wilderness Road to Kentucky. I enjoyed being taken back in time and experience what it was like for the new settlers the. The danger and adventure was intriguing. I enjoyed getting to know Thomas and Kate and I had to keep reading to find out what would happen to them.
The Cumberland Bride is so far my favorite of the series. I will be looking for more by this author in the future.
I recommend this clean historical and give it 5 stars.

The Cumberland Bride is the fifth book in The Mayflower series, which follows the descendants of the Mayflower throughout historical American events. Each book is written by a different author, and this one is by Shannon McNear.

It takes place on the Kentucky Wilderness Road in 1794, a time of great unrest between the frontiers and native Indians. Kate Gruener’s dad is ready to settle his family in the west, where he can get a piece of land. His family and two other families are coming too, and they are being led by Thomas Bledsoe, a quiet scout with many secrets. Kate is the opposite: she loves to get to know people and to find out their stories. Will Thomas be able to resist her persistant prodding when it is acompanied by huge innocent eyes? And there are more dangers down the road...

If I had the time to finish it in one sitting, I would have! The story is very addictive, you just need to know what happens next! Kate is a wonderful character, she is really brave, curious, strong in her faith and adaptable. She can be happy in any situation which is truly a gift. The road has many dangers, and she haa to trust on others a lot, especially Thomas. The romance is a slow burn, set in the time span of many weeks. I absolutely loved it! Thomas slowly opens up and comes to care for this girl, but he has to face his past first before he can truly care for someone. His story arc is very well done and believable. The story of the Indians is woven into this book and I loved that it’s not us versus them but that it is much more complex - and I love that complexity! All in all, I loved this book and I can recommend it very much.

I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

Once again this is a wonderful addition to the Daughters of the Mayflower Series. I was not familiar with Shannon McNear's writing, so I did not know what to expect. Within the first few pages she takes you on an unforgettable journey. Her description of the territory, terrain and the hardships faced, places you right in the middle of Thomas and Kate's adventure.

Ms. McNear develops her characters so well, you feel as if they were real people you want to get to know. I found both Thomas Bledsoe and Katarina, “Kate”, Gruener to be perfect heroes. She is a strong, beautiful, brave young woman, that does not realize her own beauty or charm. Yet she is not perfect, She tends to talk to much and ask too many questions, “only a silly, chattering female”. Thomas makes a wonderful “next book boyfriend”. He is smart, strong, good looking with a secret side to him. He becomes very tender and protective over Kate.

The story, has tender moments as well as lighthearted ones. One of my favorite lines in the novel comes towards the end. “Do you two wish to marry today, or would you rather simply admire each other?” came the older man's voice. Sharing a laugh, both of them blushing a little, Kate took Thomas's hand more firmly and stepped forward to face the preacher.”

I enjoyed Ms. McNear's book. I appreciated the way she brought faith and family morals alive throughout her story. It is quit obvious of her love for history. The research that she has done must be phenomenal. I learn so much from these Historical Romance Novels. Ms. McNear gives us great detail and more information at the end in her credits. If this is an interest of yours, do yourself a favor and take the time to read it. I find myself on the internet researching further.

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Books through NetGalleys. The opinions expressed in this book are my own.

This is my third book to read in this series and the first book I've read by Ms. McNear. I enjoyed this book. I thought the characters were believable and I love how the history from other books is included. Kate and Thomas are hardy people that would have been necessary for settling on the Cumberland Road. I love the interactions with the natives that were respectful. I thought the cover was misleading - throughout most of the book, Kate would not have worn such a fancy dress. For that reason, I would give it only 4 stars, although the storyline was an interesting read.

The Cumberland Bride
By Shannon McNear
This is the 4th book of the Mayflower Bride series, however, I feel like it could be read as a stand-alone novel as well. This series has been following the Lytton women through the generations. This story follows Katarina (Kate) Grace Gruener during the year of 1794- between the American Revolution and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Jemima Lytton Gruener is Kates mother and Kate’s tie to the Lytton women. Kate’s family hires on a young man to scout their journey from Tennessee to Kentucky. The wilderness between is still a wild land. The settlers during their journey are far and few between with Indian scattered throughout. The journey is not likely to be a simple move and Thomas knows it. His vigilance and focus continue to get diverted by the Gruener family; specifically, by their eldest daughters mishaps. With Kate’s inquiring mind and Grueners quiet and observing personality these two butt heads during their travels until they are forced to work together to save not only themselves but Kate’s family.
This was such a fun read. McNear did such a wonderful job telling this story. The details of the family tree at the beginning and McNears shared notes of the history behind this story were thoughtful touches to make this book stand out. I would have loved to have an added map to trace the travels of this tale. The book was easy to read but hard to put down. Everything worked well coming together and I appreciated the authenticity of the different encounters with the Indians. I think that the only thing I would change is the title. I think The Settler Bride or The Westward Bride would have suited more. But alas this did not affect my desire to read the book. Just something as I read that I thought on.

The Cumberland Bride was my first book by Shannon McNear and won't be my last.. I chose to read this book because I enjoyed all the previous books in the series. This one did not disappoint. What I enjoyed most was the thorough research the author did to write a realistic and historically accurate tale.This page turner is filled with adventure, faith and romance. Two quotes I loved, that the heroine Kate stated in the book: 'Each person has their own story." "What makes folks who they are.". An important theme throughout the book and one I hope to incorporate in my life is to get to know the stories of the people in my life. As the author writes "Life is too short, too- fragile- and we leave so little behind. If it is in your heart to say something of our own story , for others to perhaps better understand our lives..."

This series just keeps getting better and better. I read 60% of this book in one day. It is that good. I would give this one 4 1/2 stars.

It is the story of a guide, Thomas Bledsoe, who takes the Gruener and Jenkins families from Virginia to Kentucky, through the Cumberland Gap. But it is Kate Gruener, who captures his eye. Even though he is determined not to let a woman cry over him as he is undetermined in what his future may hold. But it is Kate's inquisitive nature that brings him to the point of whether he cannot live without her. The trials along the way also bring them closer, especially once Thomas is confronted by some Shawnee Indians, who appear to be from his very secretive past. As he vowed never to let a woman cry over him, it is exactly what he has to do, to survive.

This is the latest in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. I think the stories are building, each one getting better and better. This could be read as a stand alone, as it does not really tie into previous books, only the mention of her grandparents who came over on the Mayflower. I would recommend it to all who is reading this series, those that are interested in settlers coming though the Cumberland Gap, and how those trials brought the unrest with local Indians. Cannot wait for the next book to come out.

I received this from Netgalley, Barbour Publishing, Inc, and author Shannon McNear for my honest review.

I loved this story. The story flowed well and it was very difficult to put it down. I could see the mountains as Kate and Thomas made their way across them. Kate was a strong independent woman that found a way to make things work out. Thomas was a man of mystery and a heartbreaking past. I loved getting to know each one as they and Kate's family traveled. This story addressed the friction between the Native Americans and the settlers as the white's started to move westward into Native American territory. I enjoyed learning more about the history of the United States. The growing feelings between the couple was evident and delightful to read. I loved how they each fought their attraction to one another. I would recommend this book to those that love early American history and romance.

Well written story following Kate and Thomas as they travel the Wilderness Road through the Cumberland Gap, falling in love along the way. This a sweet, standalone HEA historical romance.
I enjoyed this story, engaging with the characters and their trials along the trail, the slow building romance and the realistic touch of the past showing the strength and tenacity of the adventurous people who blazed the trail for a new way of life.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear is the latest in The Daughters of the Mayflower series; each book can be read as a stand alone. It is set in 1794 as many settlers move westward and conflicts with the Shawnee and Cherokee, as well as other tribes, are inevitable.
Thomas Bledsoe has been hired as a guide to assist the Gruener family along with others on their trek across the Cumberland Gap to land in Kentucky for a new start. There have been Indian attacks along the route but will that be their greatest hardship? Kate Gruener loves to write though her father believes it is a waste of paper, ink and time. Will his attitude change as she chronicles their adventures?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There is a lot of historical details interspersed along with the fictional story to bring the journey to life. The families are Christians but not all of their guides choose to join worship services. Will hearts be changed as the journey continues and the travelers feel they must rely more and more on God? I was very engrossed in this story from the beginning; I was hoping all of the families made the trip successfully. It would be unrealistic and not make for a very exciting story if everything went perfectly so you know there will be mishaps along the way. The characters and their individual flaws are written so that I felt they could be right here telling their story. I give this book a 5 of 5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

Excellent journey!
Kate makes me think of how I was as an older teenager. I was awkward around others my age, since there were few who lived around us, and I thought I was always saying the wrong thing in the wrong way. Like her, my heart was true though and I felt things deeply. And I so loved being out in the woods. The area they travelled through Tennessee and Kentucky was beautiful with rolling hills. I used to imagine how it was for the Indians, for Kate's travelling group they were a current reality. I loved camping, so it's easy for me to imaging pioneers moving to another place to live. But I never like to think of the cruelty of the Indians to those moving into lands they had lived on for generations. I really enjoyed this story, told so well that you easily picture it all. And I like the way the characters think. Kate finding her way to be around their trail guide Thomas, and Thomas sorting out his feelings for Kate and her family, since he missed his own sisters. Dangerous journey requires bravery and cool thinking, all wound up with romance. Christian Historical Fiction

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Author and Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

#TheCumberlandBride #NetGalley

This is the first book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series that I've read. Having read a couple of novellas by this author, I was happy to dive into this novel. It didn't disappoint! I was transported back in time to the backcountry of Kentucky, surrounded by the magnificent landscape, and immersed in the lives of those brave pioneers who risked it all to settle the land.

Author McNear didn't sugar-coat the experience. She drags the reader into a river, over a mountain, and keeps them looking over their shoulder for hostile natives. She also does a very good job of balancing the differences between those natives and the settlers. And one of the things I really like is the author's notes and historical notes at the end. I love learning how much of the story was true.

I received an Advance Reader's Copy of this book and am under no obligation to post a positive review. The above review reflects my honest opinion of this novel.

The series how focuses on the fifth and six generations of the Lytton family who are now migrating in 1794 from Tennessee to Kentucky. The westward expansion movement is taking place. The main characters are Kate Greuner and her family who are traveling westward with two other families guided by Thomas Bledsoe, a frontiersman who had been taken as a young man by the Indians and spent 2 years with them before his release.

Kate is an independent young woman who dreams of love and romance and loves to read books and write in her journal. She thinks she is prepared to travel to Kentucky; but, sadly, doesn't understand how difficult that will be as the roads are too rough for wagons, and she'll be walking most of the way. Thomas Bledsoe isn't sure how this small group will do as he knows there is Indian unrest and may be trouble along the way. When Kate continually finds herself having one problem after another, Thomas seems to always be there to help her out of trouble.

Kate and Thomas are well developed, interesting characters who both grow and mature during their travels. The secondary characters round out the storyline. McNear's historical research was obvious in her knowledge of the interactions and feelings between the native Americans and the whites who were taking over their lands and hunting grounds. It was interesting to see how well Kate was treated by the Indians when they discovered that she was connected to Thomas Bledsoe known to them as Eyes of Sky. The idea of an Indian adopting a white to take the place of a member of their family and how well the honored them was somethng I did not know about.

Another good read in the Daughter of the Mayflower series.

The daughters of Mayflower series is not for the faint-hearted! It is full of adventure and history, and, the casualties of both. The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse opens with Faith losing her parents, and whilst loved and cared for, her life doesn’t get easier. The looming war draws her into the role of messenger between a spy and the Loyalists, a dangerous and precarious position. Getting to know Faith and Matthew is interesting as is the historical context. To keep fighting for what they believe in, they both go above and beyond as do their friends. I found this one a slightly slower pace than the others in the series but beautifully written. A five out of five and, I eagerly await the next one!

The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear, and the fifth installment of the Daughters of the Mayflower series is outstanding. Perhaps I’m biased as I love history, romance and intrigue; this novel has it all and then some.

Kate Gruener is travelling with her family further west in order to claim land and finally build the farm he dreams of. It is 1794 and the family, which includes Kate’s parents and her younger siblings, must traverse the Kentucky Wilderness Road to reach their destination. Due to the roughness of the roads and it’s mountainnes terrain, there are no wagons, just pack horses that carry only that which they need to survive the trip. Furniture, tools and the like we’re sold before leaving on the trip; they will build new.
Without wagons, the travelers all walk with the exception of the youngest children.

Not only is it a dangerous trip in the terms mentioned, the Shawnee are very restless and news of the slaughter of other travelers reaches Kate and her family. Thomas Bledsoe, a scout, has been hired by Mr. Gruener to see the family safely through the Kentucky Wilderness Road. Ever diligent, Bledsoe becomes distracted by Katie’s determination to learn his story, something he does not want to share. The other distraction is Katie herself and her penchant for ending up in the most precarious situations. When Katie injures her foot, he orders that she must ride and gives up his own spirited horse to see that she rides.

Despite Bledsoe’s every effort to protect those he’s been paid to lead, something happens that forces him to reconsider his own life plans. Katie finds herself growing beyond the immature thinking of a young women, to one who has been tried,becoming stronger and wiser in the process.

Highly recommended. I could not put it down.

Thomas was partially raised by Shawnee Natives in his teens. He Guides to a pioneering group of settlers, with Kate's family in it, over the dangerous Cumberland Gap Trail, into Kentucky. Kate & Thomas fall in love. Then a Shawnee raiding party kidnap Kate & take her back to their village. Can Thomas use his knowledge of the Shawnee to rescue Kate? How does God use this experience, to draw Thomas into a relationship with Him? How does Kate become the Cumberland Bride?
Shannon McNear has created an Outstanding, & Engrossing Christian Historic Romance! You Really Need To Read "The Cumberland Bride: Daughters of The Mayflower Book 5". I couldn't put it down, until I finished it. I'll definitely be checking out SM's other stories!
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley, & voluntarily chose to review it.

THE CUMBERLAND BRIDE by SHANNON MCNEAR is a historical novel that takes place in 1794
Katarina Grace Gruener is a young woman who loves to write in her journal and is always asking the people she comes across for their stories. When her father hires Thomas Bledsoe to lead their family to the land he has acquired in Kentucky, Thomas finds Kate and her relentless questions irritating, especially with his responsibilities towards the families he is leading on the wilderness trail.
Thomas had been captured and adopted by the Shawnee Indians, and is not quite sure where his loyalties lie, whether to his sisters and family or to his adoptive Shawnee family.
The novel is full of twists and turns and the characters are believable.
It is an interesting story with good Christian content.
I was given a free copy of the book by Barbour Publishing from NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

The Cumberland Bride is the fifth book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. It can be read as a stand alone, as the book are tied together through a connection in the Lytton family tree. This series is unique because most of the books are written by a different author. I have read all of the books so far and have enjoyed being introduced to authors that I was previously unfamiliar with. The Cumberland Bride may be my new favorite of the series. It is hard to choose between this novel and The Captured Bride, by Michelle Griep. Both follow a similar premise: boy meets girl, boy and girl travel through wilderness, boy and girl face hardships, boy and girl fall in love, but the stories themselves differ in time period and are both marvelous. If you are in the mood for a good romance, this is the book for you! I read it in less than 24 hours and found it nearly impossible to put down! The characters were likable, the descriptions vivid, the story line was engaging and well researched. This book would make a great movie as I felt transported in time and like I was travelling along the Wilderness Road with the Gruener family. Shannon McNear hit this one out of the park!

The Cumberland Bride will be available for purchase from your local or online book retailer October 1, 2018.

Thank you Barbour Books and Net Galley for the free copy of The Cumberland Bride. The opinions expressed here are my own.

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

Love and suspense on the Wilderness Road as Thomas guides Kate and her family through the Cumberland Gap to Kentucky. In 1794 after the Revolutionary War, thousands of settlers poured into the western lands inhabited by Native American tribes. This is the first novel I have read by this author and I am impressed with her research as well as her ability to make her characters come to life. Having personally visited the Cumberland Gap and viewed the awesome scenery, I enjoyed the author’s descriptions which I think are spot-on! This entry in the Mayflower Brides series is one of my favorites—highly recommend it.

I’ve enjoyed every book in the “Daughters of the Mayflower” series.

I loved Shannon McNear’s addition to this series. She did some great research and incorporated historical facts to make this story believable. (Be sure to read the author’s notes at the end of the book.) Kate was a delightfully imperfect heroine and Thomas was the perfect match for her. There’s quite a bit of action and adventure all through this book and I wanted to keep reading to see how things were finally going to work out for this couple, and for Kate’s family, as they made the dangerous journey to their new home in Kentucky.

This is a clean, sweet book with no foul language or embarrassing scenes. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series and I’ll also be watching for Shannon McNear’s next book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Cumberland Bride was an interesting book that kept a great amount of history along with enough fiction to keep my attention. While a number of books have been written about the journeys that were taken by pioneers to new lands, this is the first that I have read that did not go west of the Mississippi River. I appreciated the history that was incorporated into the book and the different experiences that these pioneers faced. The usual details were not in this book which I also appreciated. It was great to have a different perspective coming more from the single daughter than just a basic subjective view of the travels west that is so often part of fiction. This is a definite read and I look forward to the other books from this series.

The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear is excellent both in spiritual and historical lessons. Thomas reminded me in some ways of the Prodigal Son. I loved that the author showed how God works in our lives for our own good, drawing us to him and how scripture applies to every part of life. I enjoyed reading the history of the Kentucky pioneers since my ancestors were of German English decent and settled in Kentucky by the 1770’s. This book may have been close to their own story. The characters were well developed, descriptions of the scenery and the hardships of the journey through the wilderness were exceptional. I hope to read more historical books in this excellent series by this author and others. My thanks to the author, Barbour Books and Netgalley for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this Christian Historical Romance. In the Daughters of the Mayflower Series.

This book almost seemed like a fairytale. Not that there's anything magic or supernatural, just that Thomas almost seems like the long-lost prince who must rescue his peasant princess-to-be from the wicked villain. I loved it. I cannot say enough about how unique it is that each book in this series is written by a different author. It gives a unique voice to each book and Bride, but all are united with themes of adventure, romance, and faith in God. Each book has at least one character who has lost their faith and the danger and impossibilities they face lead them back to God.
Readers get to see significant character development in both Kate and Thomas, and the story is perfectly paced. It is also clear that Ms. McNear has done in-depth research into the time period, as well as Cherokee and Shawnee culture. Good research makes for a great story. This one definitely kept me reading. This series is truly a delight - I recommend it for any lovers of historical fiction, even if you're not typically the romance type, but especially recommended if you are. This series is also completely clean romance - nothing beyond a few stolen kisses.

The Daughters of the Mayflower books have all been great. I enjoyed The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear, book number 5 in this collection. This is also the first book I have read by this author.

As the Gruener family moves west to settle in a less populated areas and make new discoveries they encounter dangers and mishaps. Kate, the eldest daughter, who is an inquisitive young women wants to learn everyone's story. Especially Thomas Bledsoe who is hired to deep them safe on the journey. He has secrets he doesn't want to share. There is action and adventures, challenges and romance.

I received this book from NetGalley and all opinions are my own.

It's not every day you get to adventure into the wild lands of America before they were settled and civilized. That's exactly what you get from The Cumberland Bride. McNear's descriptions of the journey along Wilderness Road screams of authenticity as the daily travel is very well outlined and discussed. There is no shortage of danger for Kate and the rest of the group as they cross the untamed wilderness with Thomas Bledsoe as their guide. Kate is inquisitive to the point of distraction for Thomas and her almost constant slew of accidents cause him to fear that Kate will never survive the journey to Gruener's new home. Thomas unwittingly becomes Kate's rescuer through her many mishaps and a tentative bond is formed.

I had a fabulous time tromping across the Wilderness Road with Thomas, Kate, and the other members of their party. Kate shows courage and dignity in spite of the circumstances that continually heap upon her. She leans on the strength of God in the face of her fear, never giving up faith. Kate has a strength of character that was probably a requirement to survive but lends a depth to the story at the same time. She is no hysterical female flailing about while waiting on someone to come rescue her. Although circumstances continually put Kate in harm's way, she is never weak, even when no one would blame her for showing a measure of weakness.

Thomas has long since thought that God abandoned him, aligning himself with doubting Thomas from the Bible. However, it is the circumstances that pushed him away that will ensure his being in the right place at the right time when Kate needs him most. He tries to keep his distance from her, but it is soon evident that avoiding her completely will be impossible.

There are often times when we feel as though God has abandoned us, just as Thomas felt. What is hard to accept is that God never went anywhere, we did, and all we have to do is return to Him. The Cumberland Bride is a great story of faith, redemption, and courage in the face of your greatest fear. I enjoyed that I could not predict what would happen next. I had an idea of the climax and I was accurate in my assumption, but the events leading up to it were a constant mystery. The plot moved at a steady pace that never felt slow or overly rushed, it was just a nice progression from event to event. The amount of research that went into this book in order to accurately document the foliage, terrain, characters, and the journey itself deserves a commendation. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical, adventure, and romance in their books.

I really enjoyed this story and the bit of suspense towards the end. This story takes place during a less known period of American history. It would have been nice to have a little more background on the Whigs, Tories, and Hessians from The Revolutionary War period. I think it would have made some of the plot a little stronger.

The books in the Daughters of the Mayflower series keep getting better. The Cumberland Bride is my favorite so far. I enjoyed the perilous journey taken by Thomas and Kate, and because of the level of historical detail, at times I felt as if I was along with them (although I'm really glad I wasn't!). I also thought the pacing of the romance was just right--not too soon but not so far into the book as to be boring. My only complaint is that I wanted to know more about a few things.

I look forward to the next book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series, and while I wait, I think I'l check out a book by Shannon McNear!

This book was an excellent read! I love that this book is a wagon train book. There is romance but there is also much knowledge about Indians, wagon trains and the great land of the East. I enjoyed many of the characters but my favorite was definitely Kate! This book kept me engaged from the first page to the last. There was so much to love about this book!

Kate Gruener and her family are moving to Kentucky. Her father has hired Thomas Bledsoe, a post rider, to guide them through the Cumberland Gap. Thomas is concerned that Kate might not be strong enough for this journey and keeps an eye out for her. This is the story of their journey. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgallery. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. Overall, I liked this book. The author has done a lot of research and there is a lot of history interwoven in this book. Being from Kentucky, I am amazed on how long the travel was then compared to now. The travelers faced danger in threats from Native Americans and from the environment. The romance was sweet and gradually grew through the story. I enjoyed reading this book.

I so heartily enjoyed the adventures (and misadventures) of The Cumberland Bride! The plot and characters all made for a fully-immersive trip back in time that captivated me & just made for the perfect autumnal read. I felt Kate Gruener and Thomas Bledsoe’s characters had the perfect amount of clashing and driving each other mad, but opposites attract thing going for them.

*I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

So I read this book quickly! Not because it was short, but because it was quite riveting and kept me wanting to know what happened next. I really enjoyed it and also have enjoyed the previous books of this series. It's a great historical series and each book makes me hope the next one will be coming soon.

Kate Gruener, daughter of a Mayflower mom and a Hessian Mercenary soldier is heading through the Cumberland Gap. Not an easy journey for a proper gal. As she meets and comes to know their guide, Thomas Bledsoe, adventure and danger seems around each corner.

I know that if you are a reader of historical fiction, this will be a book you will love.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

I enjoyed this book and it’s portrait of early America. I have read a couple of the books in this series and so far they have all been very different so don’t feel you have to read them in order. You can easily jump into any of them that appeal to you. Kate is a dreamy young girl who is moving west with her family. She is a very sweet good girl. Thomas has been hired by her father as the scout to help lead her family in their journey. Neither character is interested in anything romantic but fate has other ideas. Their relationship builds very understandably as the story moves forward.

I really enjoyed the portrait of the family’s journey. Most accounts I have read linger on the hardships but Kate sees the beauty around her. Her appreciation of the journey, in spite of the difficulties, was refreshing. She relies on her faith to see her through as Thomas finds himself turning to faith for the same reason. This book does not make light of dangers a family like her faced. We see the danger in both nature and in the form of Indians. The author does an even handed job of describing the Indians as both brutal and kind in their own ways. This was a quick enjoyable read. I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Travel the Wilderness Road through the Cumberland Gap with Kate Gruener, her parents and her younger siblings! Kate loves to keep a journal and record interesting life stories of others but her father forbids her to do so. Kate is curious about their scout, Thomas Bledsoe, as she feels he has a story in his past. When Kate's horse slips off the trail into a river, Kate and her youngest brother are rescued by Thomas which makes Kate's parents look at him more kindly! Thomas does not want a woman crying for him so fights his attraction for Kate until they are captured by Shawnees! The Cumberland Bride is book #5 in the Daughters of the Mayflower series and one of the best so far! This was my first book by Shannon McNear but she did an excellent job. I highly recommend The Cumberland Bride to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I received a complimentary copy of The Cumberland Bride through NetGalley and Barbour Books. This is my honest opinion.

Romance on the Wilderness Road in the Late 1700s

Kate Gruener and her family are waiting for a group of settlers to travel west across Kentucky where her father wants to settle on the new rich land. Traveling in groups was necessary because of the ever present danger of a Shawnee uprising in addition to accidents and the natural dangers along the trail.

The first time Kate sees Thomas Bledsoe he is a rider carrying post west. When the family is finally ready to move on with a group of settlers, she’s surprised and pleased to see that Thomas has been hired as their guide. She is fascinated by him, and as they travel west tries to learn his story. Accidents and danger bring them close, but a confrontation with the Shawnee calls for all the faith and skill they can muster to survive.

If you enjoy tales of settlers heading west with a good dollop of romance, you will enjoy this book. The history is accurate and the description of the Kentucky wilderness is well done. Kate is a courageous heroine. You can’t help but like her and sympathize with her desire to learn more about Thomas. He is the prototypical frontier man. He enjoys being alone in the wilderness and fears that any woman who loved him would end up in tears.

This is the fifth book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. Each book illustrates a time period in US history with heroes and heroines appropriate for the time. This book can be read as a standalone. There is no essential background contained in the previous books.

I recommend this book. It’s a captivating look at settlers moving west in the late 1700s.

I received this book from Barbour Publishing for this review.

The author writes in such a descriptive way that it makes the reader feel included. I could picture the travelers and the places they traveled. I loved Kate and her personality. Thomas' struggle with God was very believable after all he had been through. This book is part of a series but can be read as a stand a lone. The author's note gives a full picture of the historical time period and what we happening in Kentucky during this time period. Highly recommended!

This is another wonderful book in the Mayflower Bride series. I love how the books in this series are written by a variety of authors because it gives me a chance to complete a series and still experience different writing styles by reading new-to-me authors. Shannon McNear was one such author and I'm now looking forward to reading more of her books.  Her contribution to the Mayflower Bride series is book #5, The Cumberland Bride, and it follows in line with the historical path these books take.

Kate and her family, along with others, take a chance on a new life. They pack onley their necessary belongings and begin a journey from Tennessee to Kentucky. They travel the newer Wilderness Road. They know travelling through the Cumberland Gap won't be easy, but they're determined and rely on the knowledge of their guide, Thomas Bledsoe.

The journey is treacherous and often unsettling. As the unexpected happens, Thomas clings to his faith while Kate grows in hers. The journey is not only a physical relocating, but for Thomas, he wonders what to do with his life and his heart. Thomas is not always on the up and up about his past; yet, it's his past that comes in handy as a guide.

If you've followed The Mayflower Bride series, this book is just another wonderful addition.  You can read any of these books out of order and still read a great book, but I recommend that you read them in order for the historical timeline.

Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Several years ago, Thomas lived with the Shawnee for two years following his capture. When he was traded and returned to his sisters who had been grieving him, leaving a Shawnee woman grieving him instead, he declared that he would never again put himself in a position where a woman might be left grieving his loss. But he finds that he no longer quite fits into the 'white man's world', and works as a post-rider and scout in the wilderness. Kate and her family are moving west with a group of others to take up new land, and her father employs Thomas to scout for them on the dangerous journey. Kate is intrigued by the mysterious scout from the start, but finds him fairly prickly and often taciturn, though willing enough to get her out of scrapes. Then circumstances throw them together in a way that means Thomas is forced to decide how he really feels about Kate, and each must dig deep for the courage to face danger - together or apart...

I know very little about this sort of time period, and have read very little about Indians, but I was intrigued by the presentation of the Shawnee in this book - and interested to discover the basis for it in the historical note at the back. All in all, I think this might actually be my favourite of the series so far. This is the first book I've read by this particular author, but I hope it won't be the last, because I found her writing to draw me in and keep me involved in the story. My main quibbles would be that it felt like she was the only one in the party that ever had anything go wrong, which didn't seem quite fair, and his doubts about God seemed to just vanish for no reason. Nevertheless, well worth reading.

Characters: I cared about them, and felt for them in what they had to deal with.
Storyline: Held together well, and I appreciated the historical note at the back with further background information.
Content and language: Clean, some violence but nothing graphic, language good.
Message: A background message to rely on God, a bit of a discussion of God and suffering, but nothing very extensive, and problems not really solved, just moved past.
Rating: 4.5 stars.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

Another great novel in the Mayflower Brides collection! Well written and it fit in with all the others very well. This is my first Shannon McNear book, so I wasn't sure what to expect, and I was quite pleased.

The Cumberland Bride follows a family that's traveling west and must cross the Cumberland Gap. Kate is the eldest daughter of the Gruener family and she loves recording peoples stories, which gets her into trouble more than once. The family has hired a scout, Thomas Bledsoe, to help keep them safe on their journey and Kate believes he has quite a story to tell.

Thomas likes to keep to himself, preferring quiet to the noise of the group. He's lived a difficult life and it's led him to be angry with God. But the difficulties of the journey find him taking care of Miss Gruener more than once and she tends to turn his head continually!

Their story is a beautiful one, with the love of family (both blood and adopted), the love of God, and their growing romance. I enjoyed The Cumberland Bride from beginning to end and find myself anxiously awaiting the next book in this fantastic series!

I have read all of the Brides of the Mayflower series and have enjoyed them all. I love to read Christian Historical fiction.......This book opens in 1794 in Tennessee and ends in Kentucky as the group travels along the newly expanded Wilderness Road through the Cumberland Gap. The characters are well formed and very believable and so interesting. If you enjoy reading of the perils that a wagon train encounters with Indians and sickness and other dangers along the trail, then you will surely love this one. Of course with romance added and a happy ending, then this book is definitely one you will want to read.......  An e-book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

The setting of the latest Daughters of the Mayflower starts out at Bean's Station, Tennessee in the year 1794. Thomas Bledsoe hires on with the Gruener family to move them across the Wilderness Road to Kentucky where they have purchased land. What follows is a tale of adventure, mishaps, Indian threats, secrets kept & revealed, family ties, and two hearts falling in love!

I really enjoyed this story! McNear wrote in it such a way as to engage the reader with all five senses. I felt like I followed along with the traveling party who set out to make a new life in a new land. Seeing for the first time through their eyes how the terrain changed, the emotions they felt, the camaraderie between scout leaders & family units. You could feel the excitement crackle in the air as they make their way in anticipation and also trepidation as the threat of Indian attack ever increases. As for the characters, the author creates each one with flaws like ourselves and inner struggles. Thomas carries a secret past while Kate grapples with negative feelings that can overwhelm her at times. They also fight growing feelings between them for reasons the reader will learn as details unfold. I really loved the rest of the Gruener family and you can see their devotion, strong ties and love between each member. I also enjoyed seeing history come to life. I think that's my favorite thing about the books in this series! Watching how our great nation was formed and getting to know the people who made it happen. Each author has done a fantastic job in the retelling and I am impressed with McNear's contribution. Well-written, engaging, wonderfully detailed, fleshed out characters, rich historic details and love found in hardship make for an adventure the reader doesn't want to miss!

*I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. *

A wonderful romance!! When Kate's father decides to move the family west, she sees it as another grand adventure! As they travel the Kentucky Wilderness Road, Kate finds herself drawn to their guide, Thomas Bledsoe. He is supposed to be leading them all safely to their destination, but the curious Kate proves a dangerous distraction. There is an ever present threat of danger from the native Shawnee. Thomas tries to stay aware of the way things are going and feels a conflict is eminent. Just how close is Thomas to the Shawnee? Just how strong is Kate? You'll have to read it to find out...

The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear is a fabulous Christian historical novel and the fifth book in The Daughters Of The Mayflower series. It can be read as a stand-alone.
History comes alive for the reader as we journey with those early pioneers determined to conquer and settle in new territories. Along the way we encounter Native Americans, mishaps and we catch that pioneering spirit.
The novel shows the bravery and determination of those early settlers in 1794 as they pack up their lives and families, and travel on horseback into unchartered territory. Scouts were hired for their protection and knowledge of the land.
Family is important. They stick together and pull together.
In times of crisis characters turn to God in prayer. They receive internal peace despite external circumstances.
Life has dealt blows. "If God was so great and so merciful, why had He taken Mama?" God does not 'take' anybody out of spite. Illness and disaster happen. God does then receive souls. The school of hard knocks means people move away from God but He never moves away from us. When we cannot see or feel God, we need others to intercede for us. "Help him... know You are with him. Even if he thinks You are not."
The novel shows how God can take bad circumstances and turn them round for good. The reader is reminded that that is exactly what God did for Joseph in Genesis 49. God loves us and wants good things for us but sometimes free will interferes.
Within the story the reader witnesses the delicate relationship between the white and Native Americans. Both are wary of the other as the whites journey into the Native American lands.
The Cumberland Bride is a fabulous read. It is a tale of love, loyalty and a search to belong and be loved. It is a journey of discovery both literally and figuratively.
Absolutely marvellous.
I received this book for free from Barbour publishing on net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

If I had to choose a favorite series, it would be Daughters of the Mayflower. Cumberland Bride is book 5. This series follows a family generation by generation through American history. It is filled with adventure and history. As the title implies this book in the series is written about a family who traveled thru the Cumberland Gap, the gateway to the West.
Cumberland Bride is not for the faint hearted. The author does a great job revealing the difficulties of the journey. This is a very realistic story. Shannon McNear also shares some interesting facts about the Cherokee Indians. I found this fascinating. It was an interesting balance to learn about the massacres but also the kindness the Cherokee’s showed to those who they kidnapped and then adopted.
Cumberland Bride was well written. It captured my attention from the first page to the last. I am not a big romance fan. But I do love history and Cumberland Bride had a good balance of history and romance. I can’t speak for those who enjoy romance. But I can say those who like historical fiction will enjoy Cumberland Bride.
Each and every book in the Daughters of the Mayflower has been enjoyable. I can’t wait for the next in the series. Just a note that each book in the series can be read as standalone. The characters are not the same in any of the books. But I would suggest reading them all. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley

I posted this on Goodreads, Amazon, CBD, and Books a million and are waiting for the confirmed links.

I love this series! Mostly because it can e difficult to find good books set during the colonial period. This is the first book I've read of Shannon McNear's and I thought her writing style, plotting and characters were wonderful. In particular, the relationship between Kate and Thomas was wonderfully written and she writes the historical details very well.

Even before I finished this I knew it would be my favorite book of the Daughter's of the Mayflower series! Wow, and I'm gonna say it again, WOW! Absolutely loved this book!
This book was so rich in historical detail and I just gobbled it up. You want to tell me about the Wilderness Road in great detail, the terrain,weather conditions,native vegetation along the way? You want to tell me about the natives,their habitat,foods,customs, oh yes please I am all ears. I could visualize the story taking place as I read. I need a bit more time to digest this as I am still visualizing it. I am the person who reads a nonfiction historical book for enjoyment like a novel. As far as historical recommendations the author mentions Laura Frantz and Lori Benton, now I have another recommendation if I may, Jocelyn Green. Like the two previous author's her books are well steeped in historical detail. I loved the author sharing about more history of the area and historical filled facts in the back of her book. It's a shame only about one percent of author's research is able to be used in books but I can see how that's possible. Eagerly await what the author puts out next.
Pub Date 01 Oct 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc. through NetGalley, thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.

What a beautiful story that is rich in history which captures the essence of a time period that I love reading about. I loved how the author described the terrain that Kate and her family were traveling on. There was threat of Indians around them. Traveling by horses to Kentucky would take courage, stamina and hope.

I enjoyed Thomas and his commitment to Kate's family. It was interesting to read about his connection to the Indians. His ties to them will become very important as danger surrounds the travelers. Kate finds herself in a treacherous situation and her life is threatened when the Shawnee find her in the wilderness.

I loved how the story depicted a true account of how families were willing to travel long distances to find a better life. Thomas takes his job serious and is willing to keep Kate and her family safe. There is an interesting account about Thomas's past that really brought out the historical aspect in the story. Don't miss this captivating story of survival and hope.

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing . The review is my own opinion.