Due to the many books that I have started and not finished lately due to the unrealistic, cliche or unoriginal, or lacking a faith base in a book from a Christian author or publisher. I've found too many and am just leaving this book as a did not finish due to my not getting into the book... I have previously really enjoyed Tracie Peterson's books very, very much, she has been a favorite historical fiction author of myself and one of my sisters, however. This one and other more recent releases however have been repetitive and I haven't really gotten into them due to the fact that they seem like they were pieced together from her former works.

This story of Grace, who is of half European and half Native American heritage, is set in 1880s Oregon. She is set to finish medical school at one of few schools that admit women. She has hidden her heritage because only "white" women were allowed at the school. Of course, all of this comes to a boiling point in this story. Thanks to the author for bringing current light to a long-held problem of discrimination.

A continuation of an interesting series. Faith was born as the result of her mother being raped in a Native American uprising, first adopted out and then she was raised on a Reservation. She looks white. A gifted healer, she goes to Portland to attend college to be certified as a doctor, then return to the reservation. At that time, people of color did not have any rights in Oregon. Blacks were not allowed in the state at all. Native Americans could not marry a white person or attend college. In this story there are powerful men who want to rid the state of Indians and sell their land for profit and they would do almost anything to eliminate people who stood in their way. Mostly in secret of course. Some of these men carry over from the previous books, so Faith's family is still in danger. It plays a very big part in what happens in this story as well. Andrew is a ship's captain who comes into Faith's life and plays a big part in her family as well. Excellent series to get lost in. Living with discrimination, good, caring people wanting to help others. When they step out of their bounds and speak out for fairness, they are deeply punished by the evil ones. Christian faith and perseverance runs strong throughout the story.

I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Way of Love
by Tracie Peterson
Bethany House
Bethany House Publishers
Christian
Pub Date 02 Jun 2020


I am reviewing a copy of The Way of Love through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:



Faith Kenner is a woman ahead of her time. she is pursuing her dream to become a doctor at Willamette University's medical college so she can use her gift for healing to help those in need, especially the native populations forced onto reservations and then neglected. It is then that she meets Andrew Gratton, a handsome riverboat captain who has been injured on his ship, she uses her skills to tend his wound, and a friendship grows between them. Andrew admires Faith’s strength and her determination, as well as her willingness to stand her ground. He also greatly appreciates her Faith, her kindness and compassion. the problem is Faith holds a secret that means their friendship can never become anything more, so she must bury her feelings for Andrew as best she can.



Faith is eager to participate when some of her fellow students put together lectures to speak out against Oregon's racist laws and policies. However some powerful men have other plans for their state, and soon Faith is caught in the middle of a plot to push the local Indian tribes to rebel. As they fight for the rights of others Faith and Andrew’s love for one another grows. Can they trust that God has a way toward love for them, or will her secret stand in the way of their one chance for true?



If you are looking for an inspiring and uplifting story of Faith, and Overcoming of not standing down when a wrong is seen, and of a woman who was not afraid to fight for her dreams and ambitions at a time when many were stifled, I highly recommend The Way of Love.



I give The Way of Love five out of five stars!



Happy Reading!

I am a huge fan of this author. She was one of the first authors I started reading when I discovered Christian Historical Fiction. I have not read the other books in the Willamette Brides series. I did not have any problem following along. There are some backstories from Book 1 that filter into this book. This book is set in 1870's Oregon. The main character portrays herself as purely white, and hides her Native American heritage. She wants to become a doctor to help her people. Andrew Gratton is a riverboat captain and the male hero of this book. Faith and Andrew start to fall in love.
The author's books are always well researched - it's like getting a history lesson also.
Well written characters.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley - all thoughts are my own.

The Way of Love is the second installment from the Willamette Brides series by Tracie Peterson. I enjoyed it more than the first book.
Five stars.

Well researched and well written, but didn't fully hold my interest. I had to take a few day breaks between some of the chapters because I just wasn't feeling into it. Nevertheless, I can tell the author studied a lot of history in preparation for this novel. I might re-read it in the future to see if I enjoy it more when I'm in a different head space.

This story was quite enjoyable overall. I rather liked the college donor angle and found it fascinating. I’ve never before read a fictional story that tackled this topic. I adore how Mrs. Peterson wrote this part of the story.

The medical college scenes were enjoyable, interesting, and well written. They felt very realistic.

I’m a bit of a weather nerd, so seeing that an epic cyclone was featured… well, that completely made my day. When I researched it and found out this particular cyclone was a real historical event, my heart must have skipped a few beats, because I became giddy that the research proved the fiction to be accurately represented.

One thing that did not feel accurate was the focus on the fight for racial equality. Honestly, I would totally five-star love this series if the “people of color” term and battle for racial equality weren’t featured (see my review of Secrets of My Heart for thoughts on POC). They felt out of era, perhaps because of current events in 2020, and inorganic to the story and the rest of the plot. They felt forced, and that isn’t normal for a Tracie Peterson book or series to me. The previous series about the generation prior to the leads in this series was much more realistic and era-accurate in every aspect (Heart of the Frontier).

If the racial issues and identifying term were omitted, this story would have been strengthened. I struggled to regain my focus once those issues popped up in abrupt ways at times. However, I did adore the medical school angle and the leading lady’s journey through the difficulties that came her way. She was a delightful lead to get to know.

This book featured the repercussions of the massacre events the leading lady’s mom experienced in her own book in the Heart of the Frontier series. Be still my heart! I’m so excited this came back to give us more information about how those events affected the family for more than one generation. The difficulty of being half-Indian, half-white and how society saw this at the time was beautifully written. (This is not the racial-equality issues I meant in previous statements.)

That the characters spoke up for the truth and dealt with tough consequences was a beautiful example of the Christian journey.

I’m enjoying this series by Tracie Peterson, especially the residents of the boarding house. Each of those ladies has different story and it’s been interesting finding out more about them. I was especially touched by the stories of Mrs. Weaver and Alma. The close-knit bond of friendship between them was amazing, given their circumstances in life and this period of history. There’s some suspense and mystery in this series, too. It took a turn that I did is not see coming, and that particular storyline was not finished up in this book.

The author did a very good job of presenting how discrimination in several forms existed in those days. how good people cared enough to try to correct it. This is not just an intriguing story, There’s great Biblical principles all throughout the book that lifts this book up to another level. This is an excellent series by a talented author.

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

I am always so excited to see a new book by this author. She has so many books out and they never disappoint. Reading her historical fiction over the years I have really learned a lot and have used my computer to look up what I haven't understood.
I do recommend reading book one as this is a continuation of characters from the first book.
This book is very timely as it deals with race relations which we are dealing with so much of it in modern times.
Passing herself off as purely white, Faith Kenner keeps her Native American heritage a secret known only to her family.
Faith is determined to become a doctor to help her own kind, The Native American people of the reservation and knows the problems and conditions they live under.
The main male character , Andrew is a good man and a river boat captain.
Marriage to a white man is illegal though because she is half Indian.
I really enjoyed the interaction the characters had with each other though I didn't like all characters equally.
The story line intrigued me and I enjoyed it a lot.
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

Published June 2nd 2020 by Bethany House Publishers.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

The Way of Love is the second installment in the Willamette Bride series. It continues the story of Faith as she works towards her medical degree. This title can be read as a stand alone. Ms. Peterson fills in the reader with the backstory as it pertains to this title. Readers will empathize with Faith, a strong character is not afraid to stand up for what she believes.
Fans of Ms. Peterson’s historical novels will not be disappointed. This reader learned about the Storm King which hit Portland, Oregon in 1880. Ms. Peterson always informs her readers about little known historical events and it is evident that she has done her research. Readers who enjoy a quick read, character driven books will breeze through the Way of Love.
I received an ARC ebook from NetGalley and the publisher, Bethany House, in exchange for an honest review.

The Way of Love is the 2nd novel in Willamette Brides series by Tracie Peterson. I do recommend reading Secrets of My Heart before embarking on The Way of Love. The story begins in December of 1879 in Portland, Oregon with Faith moving into Nancy Carpenter’s boardinghouse (from Secrets of My Heart). I like that the story features a strong, intelligent, and Christian main character. Faith Kenner is determined to become a doctor to help Native Americans on the reservation. She grew up among them and knows the conditions. Faith is a woman of strong convictions. She does not understand why there is prejudice in the world. As Faith states, “a person can hardly be blamed for their heritage.” The Way of Love is rich in historical details. It includes the racial tensions and laws that existed in Oregon at that time along with the “Storm King”, Willamette College, and much more. Christian values and beliefs are prevalent as well. I thought The Way of Love was well-written with vivid descriptions. The pacing is gentle which suits the story. It was nice catching up with Nancy, Seth, Mrs. Weaver, and the other residents of the boardinghouse along with our main characters families. We get to find out Mrs. Weaver’s secret and it was something I never expected. Samuel Lakewood and his cohort, Gerome Berkshire are back with their evil plans. I am eager to learn the identity of the man who calls the shots. I appreciated the author’s note at the end. My favorite line from The Way of Love is “The sooner people put aside prejudices, the sooner we’ll have peace in our country.” I thought The Way of Love was a timely novel considering what is currently happening in the United States. The Way of Love is a compelling historical novel with a surprising storm, fine friends, a satisfying surprise, racial pressure, Christian codes, and a romantic riverboat captain.

The Way of Love is rich in historical details. It includes the racial tensions and laws that existed in Oregon in this era. The story begins in December of 1879 in Portland, Oregon and continues with the characters from the first book. It is not necessary to read the first book before reading this one, but would give a greater understanding of whom the characters are. Also it is somewhat of a continuation of “Heart of the Frontier” series. The main character is Faith Kenner who is a strong, independent female who is studying to become a doctor so she can bring her learning to the Native tribes. She is part Indian {we read of her conception in Heart of the Frontier series.} She was given away at birth to a missionary man and his wife. The hero is Captain Andrew Gratton {who also has a secret} who finds himself admiring Faith and her zeal to help the Indians amidst the town people who mostly despise the native Indians and would like to see all them dead. This is a beautiful story and at times intense, but love and love for God wins out………I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Ok, before I dive into the review, I just realized I've missed soooo much because I didn't read book one. Yes, it can be read as a stand-alone book and you will understand the story, but I realized there were some things that the author didn't explain much (the backstory of some characters) and I ended up mixing characters up A LOT and...

So, yeah, read book one first. 

Well, the book itself was very interesting. This is the story of Faith, one of the few females attending med school at that time. She has always been very devoted to her calling as a healer, and has been aiding her aunt as a midwife since she was fifteen. 

The story starts with Faith moving with her cousin Nancy and her little family in her boarding house and what she thought were going to be the last hectic days of her life as a med student before she graduated, only to realize her life was going to turn into a nightmare. 

Faith harbors a secret, a secret that only her family knows of. She is half Indian. Her mother was a victim of an atrocious circumstance that led to her birth. Not wanting to cause her mother any more disgrace, she tries to live her life as best as she can as a white. Being born with blue eyes, strangers don't question her heritage, yet she knows that if she were to expose who she really is she would be expelled from med school and worse. 

But her heritage not only denies her many basic freedoms, but she is also forbidden to marry. The law forbids people with Indian heritage to marry white people. Yet Faith has made peace with that, she will dedicate her life to helping others, to mending the broken and showing them God's love. 

Until she decides to speak up for the Indians in a lecture with some of her colleagues. 

Having set the college benefactors in an uproar for her ''love for Indians'', Faith starts receiving threats, threats to her personal life, career, and much worse, her family. 

To be honest I would have loved to see more about the med school life. We caught glimpses here and there, but I wanted to go with her to class, to her hospital rounds, see her treat patients... I dunno . Maybe it's just the med student in me. 

But the mystery and pacing of the story were wonderful. It was fairly fast-paced, and for historical fiction books, I really appreciate that. The plot twists were great, and I really didn't guess how it was going to end (again, I advice you to read book one plsss ) 

On the other hand, the romance... I wasn't a fan of it. In my opinion, it was too superficial.  There wasn't any ''time'' for development, and it felt rushed? I just feel it wasn't realistic enough. I don't know, again maybe it's just me, but I like relationships to develop slowly and ''see'' the characters getting to know each other, instead of the instant attraction. 

What I did love was her Indian heritage. LOVED IT. We need more stories like this! It adds up that unique factor to otherwise bland historical fiction stories. I also liked that the author touched on the realities of both sides- Indians and whites, and we saw the good and the bad from both. Faith is also a girl who is proud of her heritage and I really liked that. She overcame the boundaries society put on her, and with grace and determination, worked to get the best out of her situation. 

It was really a very good book and I enjoyed it way more than I thought I would. It is clean yet there are no explicit mentions on rape, racism, death penalty, blood, and medical procedures that may trigger some. 

I will definitely read Tracie Peterson's next books and also read book one of this series (the intrigue is real, guys . I need to know what this ''person's'' backstory is)

Thanks to Bethany House for the free review copy. All opinions are my own.
I loved being back in this story in Oregon, this time with Faith, who is attending medical school. What is great about this book was that Faith was becoming a doctor, which was not very common in 1880. She also wanted to use her medical skills to help the Native people. Through the story, the readers get updates with the characters we first met in the previous book.
I also like how Peterson chose to highlight the not so good parts of Oregon's history in this book. She doesn't shy away from having characters that support and oppose the laws of banning African Americans from the state - I didn't even know this was a thing until I read this series. I think it's important to highlight these parts of history in stories like this, so that people can be educated.</p>

I requested this book to read and review through Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers. I enjoyed the book as I expected I would. I am a fan of Tracie Peterson and this book did not disappoint.
The story is set in the 1800s in Oregon. It is historically accurate and full of adventure. There is a mystery, though sadly, it didn't seem to come to a full conclusion in my mind.
The book kept my interest throughout. It is a Christian book but not a preachy type of story. It is written from a female's side/viewpoint. It is her story to tell.
I would recommend this book to my friends and I give it a 3 out of 5 stars, meaning I like it.

Such an encouragement to remember what God has called us to a individual. It's inspiring to read how these people follow God through hardships. Well written novel bringing truth to light.

Faith!
I greatly admired her because despite her heritage she decided to stand tall and strong. She knew what she was good at and stuck to it. She pursued her dreams and excelled at being a doctor which was very uncommon for woman during her time.
I like how she and Andrew met. I admired him for trusting her at first to care for him and not write her off like others would because of her heritage and gender.
I really admired that he stood up for the Indians even when others mistreated them. Very honorable man.

Wonderful historical book filled with soul longing romance, history and inspiring stories.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

Having missed out on the first book in the Willamette Brides series, I was surprised to meet characters from Peterson's Heart of the Frontier series, a most wonderful series. The Way of Love focuses on Faith Kenner. Faith, long practicing the art of healing, is working towards achieving her surgeon's certificate, quite an accomplishment for a woman in the early 1880s. The only problem is the laws in Oregon relating to anyone with any amount of Native American blood.. They both limit her career options as well as her marriage prospects. Having inherited her looks from her mother, Faith has chosen to keep secret her ancestry from her father's side, and to function as a white woman in society, while using her knowledge and contacts to further the cause of Native Americans. Some very dangerous men in Oregon would much prefer that the Native Americans be silenced by whatever means necessary, putting Faith and her family at risk.

The theme of respecting God's sovereignty, and maintaining one's faith, while in the direst of circumstances is well developed in this story. There were many times when Faith, who was particularly well named, must live by faith and not by sight, when there is actually no hope to be found. While all fans of historical fiction will enjoy The Way of Love, it will speak to the hearts of those who are desperate for this type of faith. I am very grateful to have received a copy of this book from Bethany House via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

This is book 2 in Tracie Peterson's Willamette Brides series. I would definitely recommend reading book 1 before this one as there is some carry over from the first in the series.

All I can say after reading this book is WOW! It couldn't be more timely as it deals with race relations, yet is set in the 1870's in Oregon. A group of men are trying to supply whiskey and arms to the native Americans in order to stir them into war; so they will be driven off the reservation, and the men can grab the land to sell to white settlers. We once again see the characters from book 1 along with a few new additions that just make this story even richer. The focus is on Faith Kenner who is mixed Indian and Caucasian but is representing herself as a white. She is trying to finish medical school, in Portland, as she wants to help the Indians as they lack good medical treatment. She is, of course, very proactive for Indian rights and the group of men soon target Faith and her family. She is boarding with her cousin, Nancy Carpenter, who has a close knit group of boarders living in her home. And one of the boarders has a surprise that also ties in to the difficulties with race relations.

With a great deal of suspense, wonderfully complex characters, intricate relationships, and a romance story line in the background, this book is both realistic and relatable. Peterson's historical notes regarding race relations and governmental law in the afterward were definitely a shock to me. Wondered why I had never read some of this in history books especially as I was a history minor in college.

This book definitely goes to the top of my favorites list for 2020!