Member Reviews
Caroline Adams returns to Indian Territory after tiring of confining society life. She wants adventure, and when she and her friend Amber come across swaggering outlaw Frisco Smith, they find his dreams for the new territory are very persuasive. With the much-anticipated land run pending, they may just join the rush.
Growing up parentless, all Frisco Smith wanted was a place to call his own. It's no wonder that he fought to open the Unassigned Lands. After years of sneaking across the border, he's even managed to put in a dugout house on a hidden piece of property he's poised to claim.
When the gun sounds, everyone's best plans are thrown out the window in the chaos of the run. Caroline and Frisco soon find themselves battling over a claim--and both dig in their heels. Settling the rightful ownership will bring these two closer than they ever expected and change their ideas of what a true home looks like.
All Caroline wants to do is establish her independence and find out where she belongs. The only way she can think of to do that is claim a piece of land in the Unassigned Lands. The problem with that is she claims land that Frisco Smith has been wanting to build a city on. They both won't give an inch on who the land belongs to. As Caroline works her claim, she discovers things are not as they seem in the nearby town. Frisco is still trying to get Carolyn to give up her land. In the mean time, he is also trying to get to the bottom of things in the new town.
Overall, this was a good book. I thought it was kind of slow in spots. But still a good book and worth the read.
I was given this book by Bethany Publishing House via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
The major's Daughter is a fun and enjoyable novel. The frontier setting is beautiful and the characters are definitely colorful! I really enjoy this kind of novel because it has elements of danger but it's not overly crude or hardcore but has a really sweet love story mixed in with action and drama! I enjoyed the relationship between Caroline and Frisco and their story creates a page turner! This was a fun book to read.
3.5 stars
Caroline Adams is a feisty opinionated spoiled slip of a girl who frustrated me for most of the book. Frisco had a tragic backstory and came out... alright. But i didn't love either of them.
Caroline runs to claim land mostly because she doesn't want to be in her father's household anymore. She wants to plant lavender to sell as soap. There are people who have nothing and want to farm for food but a spoiled privileged girl wants to plant lavender! Ugh.
Not only that she took Frisco's claim because it was next to her friends and then refused to give it back. Bradley, Amber, and everybody including me thought she should just give it to him.
It was a crazy book with a million things going on with deputies and fraud and the utter chaos which I'm pretty sure was what life was like that month of April in 1889. Absolute chaos. As some one who loves order and had dreams of designing cities this sounds like headache. Kudos to Jennings for bringing such chaos to life.
I enjoyed it, especially the glimpses of the characters from the first two books, Louisa and Daniel, and Jack and Hattie. It really wrapped up the series. I would've liked a bit more about the Indians and how living next to all that chaos really affected them. There was one mention from Major Adams about that, but that was it.
I first met Caroline and Frisco in a previous book from the Fort Reno series so it was especially fun to catch up with them again now that Caroline had grown up a bit. I don’t remember ever thinking that the two of them might end up together so The Major’s Daughter was a reading adventure for me.
I loved reading everything about the land run but can still only begin to imagine all the hard work and emotions involved in such an endeavor. I particularly enjoyed Caroline and Amber’s determination to claim parcels for themselves – Amber who wanted a home for herself and her soon-to-be husband and Caroline who wanted to declare her own independence by building a business of her own on her new property.
Anyone who has read a few books by Regina Jennings will know that nothing will work out quite as planned and that the reader will be in for a few laughs over the antics of the characters. Naturally a villain or two also turn up in the story which complicates things even more. Needless to say everything works out well in the end with the help of a few good friends and the Lord.
The Major’s Daughter is another fine example of why I always must read anything by this author. If you are not familiar with her books and enjoy historical romance with a western setting, pick up a copy for yourself. This book can easily stand on its own but the others in the series provide a background that you will not want to miss.
I wanted to like this book so much because I love the author but I felt the storyline fell through. It just did not grab my interest as many of her other books,
This was such a fun book to read! I loved the history of the Oklahoma Territory and how the land rush was done! Definitely a must read and great addition to the series! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions stated here are my own.
Wow, there's so much I could say about this book, but I'm sure you don't have that much time :) . this is the third book in the Fort Reno series; however, it can be read as a standalone as well. I've read several books by Mrs. Jennings, but this was by far my favorite!! I seriously didn't want to put it down. The chemistry between Caroline (who is spunky and independent, yet wanting to feel useful - to prove that she doesn't have to rely on her dad's name ) and Frisco (who was independent and stubborn, yet wants to belong - he was an orphan and has always wanted to be part of a family) is perfect! I love it when two characters who are at odds with each other, somehow find themselves drawn to one another (by far my favorite type of romance story)
Another thing that's really cool about the story is the history that's threaded throughout the plot. I LOVED reading about the first land run and the people at Fort Reno. I also really liked all the details the author included within the story, because it made it where I could almost feel the excitement of Caroline, and the others who were hoping to fulfill their dreams by racing to get their own plot of land. Overall, while I am sad that this is the last book in the Fort Reno series, I really think that Regina Jennings did a fantastic job ending the series (really with the entire series - I would recommend all of them!). I give the book five out of five stars (can I give more?!?) *****
The Major's Daugher is book number three in Regina Jennings The Fort Reno series. While it's always good to read a series in order, this can be read as a standalone as well. I had not personally read the previous books in the series, and I must admit I didn't even realize it was part of a series until I sat down to write this review. I didn't feel as though I was missing anything at all.
If you enjoy a historical fiction with a headstrong female lead, you are certain to fall in love with Caroline. Though not common for the women in her time, she craves adventure...and decides to find it on her own by making a run during the land rush. When she claims the land that Frisco had staked out for himself, an entertaining battle...and romance follows. This story was filled with humor and drama, all with a good dose of romance mixed in. It had me smiling throughout. I also really enjoyed the messages about home that were truly at the heart of the story.
For me, I found the setting to be the most unique aspect of the story. To be honest, before reading this I didn't have much knowledge about the land rush at all, so I found this topic to be extremely fascinating. I enjoyed even more finding out in the author's notes that many of the events mentioned were actually based on those that took place at the time. What a truly unique moment in history, and one that I think we hear much too little about. While I certainly enjoyed the romance and the drama, I also found this moment in time made for an even more fascinating read. It's not typically a topic that I read much about, but one that I enjoyed nonetheless.
Overall, this was a fun read and one that historical romance fans are sure to enjoy!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
What a delightful story!
I have been loving these Fort Reno books. They are my favorite kind of historicals - those that are jam-packed with historical facts surrounded by an engaging romance.
I've seen movies about the Oklahoma Land Rush and have been fascinated seeing the motivations of the various participants. But most end with the claiming of the land. The Major's Daughter depicts the race itself and goes far beyond to the establishing of the territory, turning it into civilization. I loved learning about the rules, how the soldiers were not allowed to participate. And learning about the boomers and the sooners. But I loved most of all watching the prairie grow into cities and all the crazy things that occurred as strangers had to learn how to relate to one another in the midst of very unsettled circumstances. Even more fascinating was learning that most of the strange things that went on during the growing stages of the town had really happened and are recorded in historical documents.
Caroline's father is none other than the major from Holding the Fort, which was my first book by Regina Jennings. She is a feisty young lady, having grown up at the remote fort with plenty of freedom. Her determination had her working hard at a task that would have daunted all but the strongest of people. She was also full of compassion and grace and was so quick to help others when she was aware of the need.
Frisco was so interesting! His childhood was spent in orphanages, workhouses, and finally, the streets. Yet he rose above his circumstances and was now determined to make a new life for himself in the new territory. His search for a home influenced his actions greatly. I loved seeing how diligently he sought justice. He was truly an honorable man.
There is a touch of a faith element to the story, though it is not very strong. While at one point, Caroline read scripture that convicted her, a little, there was not any mention of that being more than an uncomfortable feeling that she suppressed. The heart change she eventually had was not clearly linked to her faith, it was simply a gradual change that came about.
If you enjoy historical fiction and learning unexpected tidbits along the way, I recommend The Major's Daughter.
Having slow days at work has become rather beneficial, because it has allowed me to finish books that have me hooked. This is another great book by Regina Jennings, based on the trio of non-related siblings. This one ends with Frisco and the girl he finally ends up tangling with at the end.
The story is based on the claims that were opened up by homesteaders, their race across the county to claim 120 acres for themselves. If anything, what this story has prompted me to do, is to read more on this era. I have a feeling that it is rich with stories of it’s own, of the hardships placed upon them. Of course, it also has me wanting to reread the childhood stories by Laura Ingalls Wilder.
The story is fast paced and if you read it too fast, it is guaranteed that you will get lost. I did, but that’s only because I was so desperate to see what the outcome of Frisco’s challenge.
This is a story, and a series, that I will be most interested in reading again.
I have enjoyed EVERY book in this series, but The Major’s Daughter is my favorite. I am a total historical fangirl, and I loved being part of the Oklahoma land rush. The anticipation of thousands of people is palpable from page to page. So many hopes and dreams depended on being successful in staking a claim, and Ms. Jennings did an amazing job of describing how chaotic, awesome and breathtaking the events of the race and the following days and weeks were for those involved. I loved how the untamed and raw quality of the land influenced its inhabitants--including Caroline and Frisco.
For a book to really catch and hold my attention, I must like the heroine. I can confess I more than like Caroline. I adore her, her courage and her confidence. She has her own goals, yes, but she’s far from selfish. The way she can see Frisco’s weaknesses and pain and only love and respect him more is endearing.
Frisco is a man of many layers. A boomer, who was often in jail. A foundling with a painful past. A visionary with aspirations for a better future. From previous books, I thought him a bit of a rogue, but it wasn’t hard to fall in love with a man with such a heart of integrity. His vulnerability only added to his charm. I loved every minute of the scenes with him and Caroline--whether they were sparing, sharing stories or surviving the wreckless prairie. Their love story is one of my favorites.
If you loved being immersed within historical fiction--to feel the sights, sounds, and emotions of another time--then you will enjoy this book. In fact, it will likely grab your attention and not let loose until the dust settles. Don’t miss the sheer excitement of this adventure!
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed how annoying Caroline was. The whole book I really didn't understand her actions and wanted her to change her mind. At the same time, I realized that she was just trying to gain some independence and I couldn't help but admire her tenacity. So as I tried to make up my mind if I liked her or not I actually really enjoyed reading her story.
I also enjoyed the historical details about the land run and the cities that were built from that. I learned about land runs in history class, but not the details and in the fun way that this book portrayed it. Although I don't think that I would have found it fun to be a part of a land run.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, and romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I love Regina Jenning's writing. She writes in a vein similar to Karen Witemeyer. Both women guarantee a Western historical romance with heart and laughter. I know when I open one of Regina's books, I'll be able to relax into a story that will make me smile and leave me with a good feeling even as there's a light mystery of some sort and tension to keep the story moving. The Major's Daughter is not exception. I've been waiting for Caroline's story and I have to admit I was surprised by it, even though the series has been building to her. Don't worry, if you haven't read the other two books, you'll be fine, though you won't regret boing back to read the others. I love the way Regina explains it: "Yes, this is a love story, but as I was writing it, I realized that this is really my love story to my state and to the bold, audacious people who settled it. Just think about the daring it took to race with abandon for a home, and then the grit required to chisel out a town, a farm, a business from the dirt. Who were these people, and what brought them to Indian Territory? I feel like you only get one chance to tell a land run story, and this is mine. I hope you enjoy it and come away with an appreciation for what was accomplished here." If you open The Major's Daughter, you'll thoroughly enjoy it!
Regina Jennings writes fun and lighthearted historical novels with a fair amount of ironic humor thrown in. They are always a good choice for curling up on the couch and relaxing on a Sunday afternoon.
The Major’s Daughter is the third book in the Fort Reno series. It could easily be read as a stand alone novel, but there are characters from the previous books (including Caroline) who are introduced without their background info, so there are things that you would only know about them if you have been reading through the series.
I found myself really enjoying the in depth look at the Oklahoma land rush. The author introduced some of the darker elements of the contest without bogging the book down with them. The romance developing between Caroline and Frisco, as they learned to look past the surface to the hopes and dreams of another, was a sweet story that rounded out an interesting read.
All in all, I’d recommend The Major’s Daughter as a light and engaging read with a good entertainment value. I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for sharing my honest opinion of the novel.
Although I have not read the first two books in this series, this read well as a stand-alone book; and I will most certainly go back and read the first two to find out the back story. The characters were unique and interesting with some good and some bad. The premise of the story is the Oklahoma land rush filled with those who so wanted a new start in life with land of their own. The problem, though, was the boomer sooners: those people who sneaked into the Oklahoma territory ahead of the designated time and grabbed some of the best land parcels.
Caroline Adams was one feisty, strong-willed, determined young woman who was tired of living under her parents rules and wanted to determine her own fate in life. Frisco Smith is an orphan who is dreaming of creating a community that will become the family he never had. Frisco had watched Caroline, the daughter of Fort Reno's commander, grow up; and she, in turn, had watched him and developed a crush on him. Will they be able to work out their differences when they both ride for the same piece of property?
Frisco's traveling case played such an important role in reminding him that he still hadn't found a family, and the ending showed that he finally understood what family he needed. Both he and Caroline learn that family can be formed many different ways and that sometimes the dreams you have aren't what God dreams for you and His dreams are always better.
"Sometimes you only get one chance to do it right."
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
The final book in the Fort Reno series hits all the right targets. The Major’s Daughter is a history lesson, romance, and comedy all rolled into one wonderful read.
I loved that Regina Jennings brings two characters readers met in the first book in the series to the forefront. Caroline and Frisco have matured, and we get to discover the people the ensuing years have shaped them into.
Caroline has gone from the entitled and spoiled major’s daughter to a woman who longs to forge her own path. She’s smart, determined, classy, and a little sassy (especially when it comes to any interaction with the men in her life).
And while Caroline has matured, Frisco has made a complete 180 in his life. He’s a man with a mission—and a conscience. Even though he had his own dreams and plans, he remains a gentleman to Caroline who throws up a roadblock to said dreams and plans and has a heart to see justice reign.
As a bonus, Amber and Bradley get some page time in this book and readers of the full series will enjoy the cameos from fictional friends. And if you haven’t read the series, no worries, this read stands just fine on its own. Whichever category you fall into, you’ll find a lot to love about The Major’s Daughter.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The author takes readers back to the 1880s in Oklahoma. This historical novel gives an up close look into the race to claim land and all the problems it entailed. Caroline, the spunky Major's daughter determined to get a claim herself finds herself in battle with Frisco, a man from her past over a claim. The third in the series, Carolina's story is one that readers won't want to miss. Recommended!
What an interesting read, rich in history and adventure…….Frisco Smith is a tough lone character, thrown in jail many times. However he seems tough on the outside, inside he is searching for somewhere to belong. Raised in an orphanage and not knowing who he is, leaves him constantly searching. Now he has a chance to homestead 160 acres. He wants to build his own town so that he is surrounded by his orphanage friends and has even taken money from them for their plots. He even has named the town, Redhawk. He knows right where to go because he has scouted the land and knows where to go. No one can beat him for he knows a shortcut that no one else knows……Except for the Major’s daughter, Caroline, who has tagged along with him since childhood. Now she decides she wants to claim 160 acres for herself to build a boarding house. As fate would have it, Frisco is detained at the start of the race by the Major requesting him to make sure all is done fairly. When he reaches “his land” Caroline is already there and her stake in the ground. He accuses her of stealing his land, in fact he has built a lean to and has stocked it with food……but she is not budging, she was here first according to the rules…….This make for a very interesting book that you will not be able to put down. Who wins and who will loose.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinion is my own.
This was probably my favorite book in this series. I loved learning more about the 1889 Land Run. I enjoyed Caroline and Frisco. They both had many things that they needed to learn to stop being so stubborn. This story made me laugh and cry. These people went through a lot of troubles to get this “free” land. It took a lot of hard work. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
This is book three in the Fort Reno series, it is a stand alone book, however you do miss a bit of the history in some of the characters if you start with this one.
Caroline Adams is ready to be her own woman, yet when Frisco Smith is thrown into the mix, excitement is sure to follow. This book is full of misunderstanding, laughter, struggles, finding your place, history and so much more. I love the history of the Oklahoma Territory and story line behind this book. Regina Jennings always does such a great job incorporating history and a great story line into her novels. If you like historical romance books you will love this one.