With You Always was such a great read! I loved the characters and their romance was amazing! I loved how it developed over time, even if there was an instant attraction. They were from different social worlds and yet that didn't matter.

I liked the history in this book. It was fascinating to see what went on to build towns in the Midwest. I liked how Elisa pushed Thornton to see things differently and make changes.

All in all, With You Always was amazing and I recommend it. The ending made me eager to pick up the next one.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*

This was my second book that I read by Jody Hedlund and I can't begin to describe how much I loved this story! After reading An Awakened Heart in this series, excitement began to brew for more orphan train tales!

This book is so well-researched, well-written, and carries a clean, but heart-warming theme! I swooned over the kissing scenes!

I highly recommend this book and series to everyone who loves Christian historical romances!

*I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions listed are my own.*

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts.

This book held such an interesting premise: twin brothers competing in business and love in order to win an inheritance from their dying father. Who wouldn’t be intrigued by such a concept? For the most part, these aspects were very well written, although I would have loved getting to see how the second town was building up and getting to know that brother better. As it was, I didn’t feel like I got to know him much at all.

I struggled to understand why this book was part of a series titled “Orphan Train.” Like the prequel, this story did NOT feature an orphan train. At least this time such a train was mentioned—but only twice. Once at 42% in a single sentence, and again at 79% in perhaps a paragraph or two. In all 359 pages, these two extremely minor mentions of an orphan train did not really qualify the book to fit into a series entitled “Orphan Train.” This is the largest reason for my being done with this series right here. I’ve read two books, looking forward to reading about an orphan train, and twice I’ve been hugely disappointed at the misguidance the series title gave me.

Another struggle I had with this book, as with at least two previous Jody Hedlund books, was the carnal turn the romance took. The romance was chaste and sweet until the man suddenly ogled “every sweet, blessed curve of [the leading lady’s] body.” He didn’t stop at ogling, either. He took advantage of a situation to get physical with her. This physical aspect went on for at least a dozen paragraphs. The whole situation felt contrived for the sole purpose of forcing the romance to “progress.” What it actually did was ruin the reputations of both leads—though, of course, that didn’t factor into the storyline, as apparently no one in town cared if these leaders of the community suddenly acted in an unchaste manner in public, which I found unrealistic for an 1850s-era story. This one, long-lasting moment stripped all my respect for both characters but especially for the leading man, because he let his carnal desires take over rather than making sure the lady’s reputation was preserved.

In the first three fourths of the book, there was good, clean humor between Elise and Thornton. This was refreshing but was later distorted by the abovementioned issue.

I enjoyed how Elise encouraged Thornton to grow and mature in his perspective and actions in the story where the town-building was concerned. This part was superbly written, as was the town-building itself.

My heart ached for Elise and her siblings. Their story was almost enough to make me pick up the next book… but I’m going to assume all turns out fairly well by the end of the series, as I don’t care to continue reading it.

Content: prostitution mentioned, taverns, drunkenness, alcohol (including in food), rape inferred, replacement expletives, derogatory term

Jody Hedlund has always been one of my favorite authors in Christian Historical Romance along with Karen Witemeyer and Elizabeth Camden. She writes such moving stories that have faith, honesty and flawed characters that you would always relate to!

I absolutely love this author’s ability to make the more obscure parts of history come alive on the page. Growing up as a Christian and a homeschooler historical fiction was my bread and butter and I recall a decent amount of stories surrounding the orphan trains. But I don’t recall ever reading about the women who were placed out west to work. So the history nerd in me was soaking up all the little historical tidbits. But the fascinating time when the story takes place wasn’t the only thing I loved, every other part of it was equally rich and I was completely lost in the story. After meeting Elise in the novella that preceded this book I had already begun to admire her. Life seemed to have dealt her blow after blow but through it all she stood strong and was determined to do whatever necessary to keep her family together and safe. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to travel so far from your family at the time, when letters were the only form of communication and that could take weeks. But Elise was willing to make the sacrifice for the hope that she could provide a better life for her siblings.
Thornton couldn’t have grown up more different than Elise. He was the son of a wealthy businessman and had never wanted for anything. Though thankfully he hadn’t let that turn him into a completely stuck-up snob. Sure he was oblivious to much of what the poor had to go through but when confronted with his misconceptions he was willing to change. To the outside observer there were a million reasons why Elise and Thornton shouldn’t even speak to each other let alone fall in love but despite their differences they were exactly what each other needed. I loved how Elise constantly challenged Thornton to see things differently and how listened and then went and did something about it, he wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty.
The challenge issued by Thornton’s father was certainly out of the ordinary and it provided quite the interesting twist to the story.
So yeah, this book was brilliant and wonderful and I hated to put it down! I’m looking forward to the rest of this series!

With You Always, Book One in the Orphan Train Series will have you experiencing all kinds of emotion for the characters in the story. Some you will like better than others, some you will grow to love and some like Thornton’s brother, Bradford, it’s just not happening! Author Jody Hedlund has done her research into the financial crisis in 1850s New York. An unfortunate time in history. You will find yourself immersed in the struggles Elise and her sisters face when they become orphans. Can Elise find hope and help for her family? Will Thornton turn out to be the man his father knows he can become? An unquestionable story of faith, forgiveness, and redemption. I have read all of Author Jody Hedlund’s books and they just get better and better. I can’t wait for Book Two!
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher.

First sentence: Elise Neumann stared out the cracked third-story window to the muddy street below, watching the omnibuses and carriages slog their way through the muck.

Premise/plot: Elise is the oldest of three sisters--all recently orphaned. They've been taken into a mission home, but, when a financial crisis hits it will be up to Elise to find a way to help support her sisters and the two children they've come to love as their own. Elise had found work in New York City in the mission home as a seamstress. She's one of many women who lose their jobs. Fortunately, there's a call for women workers out west--Elise is one that finds job placement out west in Illinois. Taking the job will mean leaving her sisters behind, but it will mean an income.

Thornton Quincy is a twin. Their dying father has set up a little competition to see which of his two sons--Thornton or Bradford--will inherit his company. Each son will have to build a town--in, you guessed it, Illinois. Thornton names his town, Quincy. He decides to hire women for some of the jobs in an effort to save money--women work cheaper than men. Each son will also have to marry for love--and not convenience--within six months.

Elise and Thornton come to know each other on this train ride west, and he, in fact, requests that she be placed in his town, Quincy. Elise is first charmed and delighted but that is before she realizes that the man so attentive to her is a multimillionaire--or the son of one. She fears that his intentions are less than honorable. After all, she's a nobody--a penniless orphan--and he's a somebody. But Thornton finds ample opportunities to show his true nature or character.

Which brother will win the competition? And will knowing Elise make him.a better man?

My thoughts: I loved, loved, loved this one. I was surprised by how much. Perhaps because this one reminds me of Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South. Part of me is curious, does Jody Hedlund love North and South too? After all, North and South does star a John Thornton. And that Thornton is a business man as well who comes to view his workers/employees as actual people after falling in love with the heroine.

If it was even the tiniest bit influenced by North and South, it's a good thing--a very good thing. It was a delight to see Elise and Thornton come to know each other better.

I do have to mention that this one is pushing it in terms of steaminess for a Christian, clean romance. There is a LOT of descriptive, passionate kissing occurring throughout. Even before declarations of love and intent to marry.

It does still have a good deal of Christian content. I am not saying it is inappropriate. Just that you should be aware that it is a LOT steamier than any Janette Oke novel you might have read.

The novel is set in New York City and Quincy, Illinois in 1857.

I absolutely loved this book from start to finish. The history aspects alone were fascinating. It really highlighted how hard life could be for immigrants and the poor communities of this time period. It would have been easy to capture these hardships and allow the characters to be overcome by thier situation, however the amazing thing about this story is how they work to rise above their difficulties. I loved the interaction between Elise and Thornton. Elise was an amazing heroine. She was hardworking, determined, and did not back down from voicing injustices or wrong doing. I loved that she still had a playful side and that really came out in her interactions with Thornton and their witty banter. And Thornton. Where do I begin? From the beginning of the story I admired him. His integrity, kindness and williningness to change and mature only grew as the story progressed. I loved the relationship between Thornton and Elise. From a chance meeting on the street, to playful conversations, they didn’t realize they were falling in love. I enjoyed the small highlights of the other siblings that stayed in New York. It was a great reminder of why Elise was working so hard when the reader was able to peek back into the New York situation and see that the siblings were still struggling to survive. A little bit of a mystery thrown in at the end, and some very tense moments leading up to the conclusion of this story just added another layer of interest! There was a definite conclusion, but a lot of things left unanswered, which I assume will be addressed in future books of this series. I had questions about some of the situations that were left open ended, but in no way felt like this ended on a cliffhanger. It left me interested and anxiously awaiting whatever comes next in this series! This was a five star read for me and its a new favorite!

I thought the book was fine but a little slow moving in the beginning. I was hoping for the same punch Ms. Hedlund puts in her other books. I highly recommend her as an author and have loved every other story I've read by her, so the slow pace of this one surprised me.

I really disliked Thornton at the beginning. He's stuck up and selfish. He only cares about beating his brother and gaining his father's approval. Elise, however, is kind and compassionate. In spite of their rocky beginning she sets out to change how Thornton uses his great influence on others. Over time Thornton became a much more likable character. Elise was a wonderful, well-developed character from the beginning. Hedlund also writes very good supporting characters, and I look forward to seeing more of them in future books. I really enjoyed the plot, but some parts of it seemed a bit contrived. Also, there was a bit too much setup for the next book. It took some of the focus off the main story. Overall it was a very interesting concept with complex characters. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

With You Always by Jody Hedlund is the first full book in the “Orphan Train” series. I say “first full book” because Hedlund released a prequel novella to the series, which is currently free on the Kindle platform, and is entitled “An Awakened Heart”.

Elise Neumann is a German immigrant who, with her siblings, has lost everything, including her parents. Now as she tries to make a life for herself and sisters in America, she must rely on God and the charity of others. When riots and gang rivalries happen on the streets, the rich and poor clash together to find safety. Will this mixing of social circles remain after the storm passes? Or will things go back to the way they were? Can Elise and her sisters survive when the market crashes and she loses the job she fought so hard to get? What will become of the fragile life she has built for herself? Will she have to apply for a job out west and leave her siblings behind?

Thornton Quincy is the son of one of the most influential and wealthy men in New York City. As his father’s death nears, his father issues a challenge to Thornton and his twin brother. Whichever brother can create a successful town along the railway and find true love in six months will receive the inheritance. When his world collides with Elise’s, will his eyes be opened to the hardships of the poorer classes, or will he move on with his life?

I liked the premise of this story. Orphan train novels have always had the ability to tug at my heartstrings, and given that the main character was a young German immigrant, which I can relate to seeing as my grandmother was such, I expected to fall in love with this story from the outset. However, I felt the story was very slow moving, and the way Thornton met Elise and related to her for the first 60-70% of the story struck me as being more on the creepy side than on the tender side. Additionally, there wasn’t really an “orphan train” element to the story, more of a “women sent out west looking for work”. I liked the end of the story though, although it was predictable. I was able to believe Thornton’s motives and come to like him as a person/character in the last 30% of the book, and Elise’s character began to gain some sympathy from me as well. Hopefully this series will get better with every book, as Hedlund’s lighthouse keepers series did.

Thank you to Bethany House publishers and Net Galley for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own and were not required to be positive.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*

With You Always by Jody Hedlund is a delightful Christian historical romance. It is the first book in the Orphan Train series which promises to be fabulous. Fact blends with fiction to produce yet another charming feel-good tale.
The novel explores being true to ourselves. We need to be the person God created us to be. It is no good trying to work to be someone else. One size does not fit all. We are all unique.
Poverty was terrible in New York City in 1857. Lack of work, overcrowded tenements and gang warfare made life precarious. Women went west in search of work to avoid falling into the trap of prostitution to feed their families. It was an era of exploration as well as exploitation.
Good leaders are hard to come by. Good leaders must be small enough to serve before they are big enough to lead. They need to know what their workers are doing by experience and walking in their shoes. Good leaders do not just happen, they are made with respect.
Life and all its burdens can make us bitter if we do not practice a heart that forgives. Carrying guilt will always weigh us down. We need to forgive ourselves as well as others.
In our hurt and pain we may pull away from God and erect walls to keep Him out. She "wished she could draw confidence in God... but a wall stood in the way." God does not cause our troubles but walks alongside us in them. He longs for us to return to Him, until we do, we will not know peace. "God's been there waiting for me."
God is a good Father. We do not have to earn His love, we already have it. He contrasts sharply with some fathers who seem to make their offspring earn their love. Achievement appears to equal love. God's love is freely available to all.
Once again Jody Hedlund has drawn marvellous characters. The two leading characters spar with each other to the amusement of the reader. Poverty of possessions does not equal poverty of love. There are many riches within the story.
I adore all Jody Hedlund's novels. They leave me with a warm heart and a smile on my face.
Absolutely wonderful.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

Jody Hedlund is a talented author that I enjoy reading; her vivid characters leap off the page and capture my imagination from the early pages and hold on until my journey with them draws to a close at the end of the book. In this first installment of a new series, the author brings to life some big city difficulties and new town birth pangs, and people that could have once lived in them, to create a story that engages my emotions on many levels and leaves me anxious for the next book!

I learned much about historical New York in this novel, especially about the divide in living conditions between the rich and poor. Descriptions of laborers' and immigrants' tenements and the exhausting work they performed sharply contrasts with the wealthy opulence and more mental labors and leisurely pursuits the rich enjoyed. Survival is a daily struggle for the lower classes with even a candle's light being a luxury some could not afford if they wanted to eat. I empathized with them and understood the motivations of several characters through the descriptive passages.

This is Christian fiction and the spiritual content does not disappoint. I love that many topics are touched on including bitterness versus forgiveness, God's plan and design for each person, social responsibility, and judging others. The content flows naturally from the characters and situations without overwhelming the story so it does not come across as preachy or tacked on as an afterthought, rather it is part of who these characters are.

The romance is one that begins with action and a bit of witty banter in extreme circumstances, bringing together two people who would otherwise have likely not met. In my opinion, this is an almost perfect romance in that the hero and heroine bring out the best in each other, forcing the other to consider viewpoints and positions that would be completely foreign without their influence. Both are honorable people with integrity on their own, but together they are better and a force for good in the world.

With engaging characters and a brisk plot, I highly recommend this novel for those who enjoy historical romance. It will have special appeal to those who are interested in historical New York, railroad expansion, or immigration.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher, but no compensation for this review. I was not required to write a positive one and all opinions expressed are both honest and my own.

Jody Hedlund writes excellent historical fiction, and With You Always is no exception. In fact, of all the novels I have read by Hedlund, this one is my favorite. Meticulous research, rich historical detail, complex characterization, and precise plotting make this book a truly exceptional read. I expect this one to go on my best of the best list this year earning it a highly recommended rating from me.

Elise Neumann and Thornton Quincy come from two very different worlds. In 1857 America, class distinctions are prevalent with resentments and prejudices on both sides of the divide. Elise is a German immigrant trying to support her siblings in the poorest area of New York City, while Thornton is the son of an ultra-wealthy land developer. The two meet and are immediately drawn to each other, but differences of birth and circumstances, not to mention a conniving twin brother, work to keep the two apart.

With You Always is a wonderful historical romance novel. Hedlund brings to life a time in American history I knew little about. The plight of immigrants and the poor are detailed as women travel the route of the orphan trains hoping for a new life. New York City of the 1850s with its disparity between the opulence of the rich and the squalor of the poor is vividly portrayed. Characters of both classes are well-developed and real — no stereotypes in this novel! While I loved Elise and Thornton, many of the secondary characters captured my heart as well, especially Fanny, a woman who had more than her share of heartbreak and abuse. Sadly, many of the accounts in the novel are based on real-life events — the gang riots, prostitution, physical abuse by employers, etc . But Hedlund infused With You Always with a message of hope — hope of God’s power, presence, and protection. As Elise contemplated the hardships she and her family and friends endured she came to believe the truth her mother had shared years before — When she was hurting and crushed by the weight of heartache, was God there holding on to her hand, telling her He’d never let her go? With You Always is rich in history and faith and . . . a very satisfying romance. Elise and Thornton have much to surmount, but a happy ending is definitely in their future.

With You Always is the first installment in the Orphan Train series and there are many stories left to tell. I can’t wait to travel along.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: older teens and adults.

Jody Hedlund does not shy away from topics such as injustice, poverty, separation, and sadness. She also has a way of weaving hope into all of this! With You Always is set in New York City in 1857, one of the many struggling immigrants, Elise Neumann has lost her home, her mother, and all hope. She feels responsible for the welfare of her sisters and the two little orphan children that they have added to their little group. They are hungry and wet, living on the street until they are found and rescued by Miss Pendleton (You can read that story here). If you have not already done so, you can get the prequel novella for free here

Thornton Quincy's father is unwell, and he wants to choose his heir before he passes. The competition begins between Thornton and his twin brother, Bradford. One of the stipulations causes quite a bit of trouble, right up until the last page. (No spoilers, you will have to find that out for yourself.)

What I loved about With You Always is that you really don't know how it is going to end until the nail-biting conclusion on the last page! I totally didn't see a few things coming. Elise is such a spunky lady, and I love her sense of humor and the way she interacts with Thornton. She puts him in his place a few times. By the end of the book, you feel as if you have made a few friends along the way. Apart from the delightful, and sometimes pesky characters (you know there has to be a bad guy or two, right?) Jody Hedlund has brought New York City and those affected by The Orphan Trains in the 1850's to life. Jody Hedlund allows us to peek into both classes, the poorest, and the richest, and what might be when one man chooses to do the right thing, even when it costs him everything.

By the end of the book, you understand the struggles of the day, you feel as if you have made a few friends along the way. Apart from the delightful, and sometimes pesky characters (you know there has to be a bad guy or two, right?) Jody Hedlund has brought New York City and those affected by The Orphan Trains in the 1850's to life. Jody allows us to peek into both classes, the poorest, and the richest, and what might happen if they are thrown together.

This Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. My opinion is my own.

I really enjoyed this historical set in both NYC and in Quincy, IL. I liked the contrast of the two settings and also enjoyed the time period.

It was fun to see characters from the previous novella again. I liked Elise a lot in the novella and was glad she was the main character in this one. I love her type in historical books. The type that gives as good as she gets. The type that doesn't back down from the men - especially not the ones that don't want to pay a fair wage and take good care of their employees! I really loved how she puts Thornton in his place - more than once!

I also liked the little bit of mystery and suspense that Hedlund threw in. I did figure out part of it but not every detail. But it was the perfect amount to keep the pages turning without detracting from the story.

I did feel like the romance went a little fast but I do know why it had to and I guess sometimes when you know, you know.

I also have to admit that I didn't love the younger sisters this time. I was actually quite annoyed with the middle sister in this book.

I loved the research that obviously went into publishing this book. I loved the historical significance of the time and also the details on the different train loads that were taken west.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

It maybe it was less about God abandoning me and perhaps the other way around. - me leaving Him.

I loved how this author took from history of the Orphan Train and brought to life conditions of the heart, fears, grit, and determination of men, women, and children to the forefront. With You Always brings to life of a young family suddenly orphaned in New York. The eldest sister Elise Neumann taking care of her two siblings and babies from another family in her care. Her young family is under the care of Miss Pendleton. A woman of compassion that is opening a center to orphans that are looking for work.

In the 1850's life was a struggle. Families looking for work and trying to stay together. Coming home from her seamstress job, Elise falls prey in the middle of a gang war and since I believe there is no such thing as coincidences, and neither does the author, Thornton Quincy makes Elise acquaintance in saving her from certain danger. Their chance meeting is the start that changes both of them for the better.

Quincy's background is a contrast from Elise background of immigrants. Quincy comes from a prominent family and has recently been put in a competition with his twin brother brought forth from his ailing father. A competition that will determine who is better fit to run the family business. A competition of love and ruthlessness. No details will I give as it is part of the plot.

Times become more difficult for Elise family and the must make a tough decision to separate. Elise leaves her family in New York and goes back East to a the beginning of a new town that needs workers. Guess who is charge of this new town. It is the 2nd chance meeting that these two learn about their own hearts and what really matters. I loved the story and I hope the following books will share these two again.

A Special Thank You to Bethany House and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review

The orphan train is moving west and the main character is on it. WOW… this author paints such a picture of New York City, the devastation of the financial economic panic of the times in the 1850s, and the perseverance that women needed to have to success in the world with the ups and downs and creeps and men of integrity. The struggle for the jobs that are honorable and families dividing to feed everyone is very real. Being sent off across the country to a job unseen in hopes of sending money back for loved ones and one day having them come and join them. The romance in this one was superb, believable, and irresistible. Loved it! If you haven’t read from this author before, you are missing out, I know I sure was.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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ody Hedlund has provided her readers with another wonderful story of the men and women who helped to settle the American Midwest of the mid-1800's. These men and women left difficult situations, showing great strength of character to build a better life in the American frontier. Hedlund especially shows the reader the plight of the immigrant women and children.

Elise and her sisters have been left orphaned. Through several twists of fate, Elise decides that she should venture west to gain employment through the Children's Aid Society in one of the many towns that were being built along the railroad. She hopes to raise the money to send for her sisters after she has settled. She meets Thornton, unaware that he is in charge of the development of one of these towns. Thornton's father is dying, and in order to decide which of his sons will inherit everything, he is requiring them to do two things in six months: build a sustainable town along the Illinois Central Railroad, and get married. Most importantly, Thornton desires his father's approval.

Jody Hedlund creates inspirational characters. The reader sees the flaws, but also the strength of the human spirit. Elise's unbeatable spirit grabbed me immediately. She would not be defeated. She also had the incredible ability to bring out the best in others. I felt her pain as she kept thinking God did not care what happened to her. Her journey to learn that God is with her always- through the good and bad- made me feel so many emotions, wanting to laugh and weep with her. But mostly to cheer her on, hoping I can show the same strength and fortitude of spirit in my life.

I believe this is one of Hedlund's best novels yet. The next book in this series cannot come soon enough. I hope we get to read Marianne and Sophie's stories.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

My Thoughts: I struggled a bit in the beginning with this one, but once I was hooked, I was really hooked and couldn’t put it down! I always appreciate historical fiction for the insights into lesser known areas of history, and Hedlund is a master at her research. The setting comes to life with a hard look at the plight of the poor and the destruction of the gangs of New York City. A new-to-me lesson was that they sent workers out west as well as young orphans. I enjoyed seeing more on the development of a new town.
The spiritual lessons were just as strongly woven into the story as the history lessons were. We’re treated to themes such as fighting fair, finding strength in humility, not judging those beneath you, and trusting God for your needs and at to be with you in the dark times.
There were some great twist and turns along the way, and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next with this family.

Rating and Recommendation: I’m giving With You Always 5 stars and recommending it to those who enjoy Historical Christian Fiction or stories about the Orphan train.

~I received a copy from Net Galley. All thoughts are my own. I was not compensated for this review.