Book Review: Engraved on the Heart by Tara Johnson

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Title: Engraved on the Heart

Author: Tara Johnson

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Reluctant debutante Keziah Montgomery lives beneath the weighty expectations of her staunch Confederate family, forced to keep her epilepsy secret for fear of a scandal. As the tensions of the Civil War arrive on their doorstep in Savannah, Keziah sees little cause for balls and courting. Despite her discomfort, she cannot imagine an escape from her familial confines―until her old schoolmate Micah shows her a life-changing truth that sets her feet on a new path ... as a conductor in the Underground Railroad.

Dr. Micah Greyson never hesitates to answer the call of duty, no matter how dangerous, until the enchanting Keziah walks back into his life and turns his well-ordered plans upside down. Torn between the life he has always known in Savannah and the fight for abolition, Micah struggles to discern God’s plan amid such turbulent times.

Battling an angry fiancé, a war-tattered brother, bounty hunters, and their own personal demons, Keziah and Micah must decide if true love is worth the price ... and if they are strong enough to survive the unyielding pain of war.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4.5 stars**

I have definitely found a new author to watch! My first time reading by Tara Johnson was worth it ... Engraved on the Heart was an exciting story with depth and heart.

Set during America's Civil War, it follows the life of Keziah Montgomery, a young woman belonging to a staunchly Confederate family and suffering through seizures. She unexpectedly meets up with a childhood schoolmate, unaware that he's haunted by his father's legacy and a shocking secret. Both get caught up in dangerous endeavors and uncertain matters of the heart.

So I really enjoyed this book. I found it easy to read, though the writing style was a little different than what I'm used to. In some ways, it felt like we didn't delve quite as deep into the story and the characters' lives and personalities, but, in any case, I quite liked Keziah and Micah, and the rest of the people who made up this novel. There was adventure, danger, sweet romance, and unexpected twists.

I usually enjoy stories set during the Civil War, and Engraved on the Heart didn't disappoint. Also, a big theme of this book was slavery and the Underground Railroad which I found to be both intriguing and utterly heart-wrenching.

Not only that, but the faith theme was simply beautiful. So powerful and emotional! I found myself crying near the end of the book, so poignant and soul-touching it was. Engraved on the Heart is truly an example of how romance novels can shine God's light and share His love.

There definitely was a lot of emotion in this book. So many moments! And a tender love story. And a dangerous, raw, but ultimately victorious, journey. For those who enjoy historical fiction, especially set during American wars, you must check out Engraved on the Heart!

I received a copy of Engraved on the Heart from Tyndale Publishers blogger program in exchange for my honest review.