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The Heart of Alaska #2
Out of the Ashes
After the death of their father, Collette and Jean-Michel Langelier are no longer tied to post-war France. While his sister dreams of adventure, Jean-Michel is hoping to finally escape reminders of the horrors he faced in the war. When Jean-Michel receives an unexpected invitation for them to visit Alaska and the Curry Hotel, it seems an opportunity for a change he needs.
Katherine Demarchis is a young widow who does not grieve the dangerous husband she was forced to marry. Now she just wants to retreat to a quiet life, content to be alone. First, though, she's agreed to accompany her grandmother on a final trip, but never expects to see a man from her past.
Katherine and Jean-Michel once shared a deep love that was torn apart by forces beyond their control. Reunited now, have the years changed them too deeply to rediscover what they had? And when Jean-Michel's nightmares return with terrifying consequences, will faith be enough to heal what's been broken for so long?
Katherine Demarchis is a young widow who does not grieve the dangerous husband she was forced to marry. Now she just wants to retreat to a quiet life, content to be alone. First, though, she's agreed to accompany her grandmother on a final trip, but never expects to see a man from her past.
Katherine and Jean-Michel once shared a deep love that was torn apart by forces beyond their control. Reunited now, have the years changed them too deeply to rediscover what they had? And when Jean-Michel's nightmares return with terrifying consequences, will faith be enough to heal what's been broken for so long?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 2, 2018
About the author
Tracie Peterson
216 books2,902 followersTracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.
pen name: Janelle Jamison
pen name: Janelle Jamison
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April 18, 2018DNF at page 196
Ok, so I really tried to read this book. The storyline seemed intriguing but there were just too many POVs for my liking. By page 100 the story was being told by 7 different POVs. Some people might not mind that, but I just couldn’t read it. It wasn’t necessarily confusing, it was just that the story was getting nowhere. As soon as something would start to happen, it would switch over to a new character. It was all really slow to me and it felt like there were way too many characters with different stories / backgrounds to all be in the same book.
Ok, so I really tried to read this book. The storyline seemed intriguing but there were just too many POVs for my liking. By page 100 the story was being told by 7 different POVs. Some people might not mind that, but I just couldn’t read it. It wasn’t necessarily confusing, it was just that the story was getting nowhere. As soon as something would start to happen, it would switch over to a new character. It was all really slow to me and it felt like there were way too many characters with different stories / backgrounds to all be in the same book.
October 20, 2020
This was a wonderful novel, full of interesting characters and a plot that kept me invested. I loved that there were a few different countries visited, even if only for brief scenes. There were lots of intriguing events and moments, including a mountain trek, some bears, an outbreak of an illness, and a quirky chef and her helper. I liked that faith and family were richly represented with great detail and deep shades of heart. It was neat to see how the trauma of one’s past could couple with one’s hopes for the future. That was a great push-pull that was well brought out in each character’s personal journey as well as the overarching plot. This novel was detailed in historical accuracy, as far as I could tell, which is important to me. I can hardly wait to read the third book in the series.
Content: gambling, one expletive
Content: gambling, one expletive
January 2, 2018
Out of the Ashes by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is the second book in The Heart of Alaska series. Jean-Michel Langelier just lost his father which leaves him responsible for his younger sister, Collette. Collette has been encouraging Jean-Michel to take a trip to get away from the memories that haunt him, when he receives an invitation from Maria Harrison. She is asking him to travel to Alaska and stay at the Curry Hotel. Katherine Demarchis is the widow of Senator Demarchis, but she does not grieve his loss. The man her father forced her to marry was a cruel, demeaning person. Katherine just wants to live out her life as quietly as possible, but her grandmother (Maria Harrison) has requested that she accompany her on a trip to Alaska. After taking the scenic route across the United States, they arrive in Alaska and Katherine is startled to see Jean-Michel. Katherine and Jean-Michel had fallen in love five years prior in France. However, her father was against the match and quickly set out arranging a marriage for Katherine. In the intervening years, they each have experienced different horrors that have changed them (Jean-Michel was a soldier in a war zone and Katherine had an abusive husband). Will the magic of the Curry Hotel and its congenial staff help these two heal? Is there a chance for them to have a future together?
Out of the Ashes is nicely written (I like the writing style) and has a good pace throughout the story. It did, though, take me a while to get into the story. Once I did, my attention was held until the end. While Out of the Ashes is the second book in The Heart of Alaska series, it can be read alone. The religious aspects are prevalent throughout the story (having faith, scripture, forgiveness of others and oneself, power of prayer). We get to see people discovering God and developing a relationship with Him. We get good descriptions of the characters, town and area. This area of Alaska sounded beautiful. I liked the characters who worked at the hotel. They are what make the story enjoyable (enhance it). I felt that the authors accurately portrayed how a victim of mental abuse would act and feel. It is not something that goes away immediately just because the abuser is gone. It can take many years (if ever) for an individual to get the thoughts to go away. There is, of course, some predictability to the story, and I felt that the book was a little too long (could have used some editing). There is a lovely ending that wraps up the main storylines. I give Out of the Ashes 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). The next book in The Heart of Alaska series is Under the Midnight Sun.
Out of the Ashes is nicely written (I like the writing style) and has a good pace throughout the story. It did, though, take me a while to get into the story. Once I did, my attention was held until the end. While Out of the Ashes is the second book in The Heart of Alaska series, it can be read alone. The religious aspects are prevalent throughout the story (having faith, scripture, forgiveness of others and oneself, power of prayer). We get to see people discovering God and developing a relationship with Him. We get good descriptions of the characters, town and area. This area of Alaska sounded beautiful. I liked the characters who worked at the hotel. They are what make the story enjoyable (enhance it). I felt that the authors accurately portrayed how a victim of mental abuse would act and feel. It is not something that goes away immediately just because the abuser is gone. It can take many years (if ever) for an individual to get the thoughts to go away. There is, of course, some predictability to the story, and I felt that the book was a little too long (could have used some editing). There is a lovely ending that wraps up the main storylines. I give Out of the Ashes 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). The next book in The Heart of Alaska series is Under the Midnight Sun.
June 16, 2024
I actually enjoyed this one much more than the first one! I felt like it had more depth, perhaps because it hit on more series issues like PTSD of a solider and spousal abuse. We were introduced to some new characters, and the setting is still around the Curry Hotel, but in the middle of the Alaskan summer. In this second book, two of the new characters who the book focuses on, have to work through some pretty heavy stuff in their past. I really loved how even in their reconnection, there wasn't an insta love story but a reunited friendship that they allowed to develop appropriately for each of their situations. Main characters from the first book play a large role in the story as well, and I just loved that. There was a bit of outdoor adventure featured in this one as with the last one, although we didn't get any harsh winter Alaskan scenery this time. But I loved how the author used the story to dispel a few myths about summers in Alaska. The faith based elements in this story were very strong with several of the characters, which I absolutely loved. Looking forward to listening to the third and final book in the series!
January 18, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series, In the Shadow of Denali, and have been eagerly awaiting this second book. Now that I have finished it, I am eagerly awaiting the third book. Seriously.
Out of the Ashes does not disappoint as a sequel. Though the two main characters are new to the series, the cast of the first book are all back, along with the same setting as the the first book. If you are not an avid fiction reader, you may not understand the sentiment of this, but the reader can get attached to fictional characters, and that has happened in this series. I really liked the hero of the story, Jean-Michel, and felt an empathy. We are all broken in some way, and I have had my share in that area. Though Jean-Michel's was different with his nightmares of the horror of war and losing his best friends in that war, I too have felt the hopelessness and other emotions our fictional hero felt.
The book has a lot to offer with its drama, ploy, and the relationships between the characters, often at times making me laugh out loud. Slight spoiler - To me the highlight of the story was when Jean-Michel was presented with true hope - God - by the ever likable character Thomas. I won't give anything else away, but I truly appreciated the emphasis in this book of hope and the answer for broken people being Jesus. There was also a lot in the book in that area for the heroine of the story, but the part with Jean-Michel was more dramatic, and probably resonated with me more since I am a guy. I found my eyes watering, and it gave me a boost of hope and faith.
Peterson and Woodhouse make a tremendous writing duo. I had the privilege of meeting them on their book tour for In The Shadow of Denali, and they are both awesome ladies. This book and "Denali" are the result of two great minds and writers combining their God-given talents, and the results are top notch. Although they are writing these books to be able to stand alone, I personally would recommend reading them in order. If they keep up the trend they are on, book three will be even better than these two they have written so far. I definitely recommend both books.
September 1, 2019
One of the perks of jumping into a series after the books have all been released is that you get to read them all right away. I was glad that even though the books are intended to also be able to be read as standalones, many of the characters of the first book were present in this one and I was glad to be revisited by them. Towards the beginning I wasn't sure if I was going to fall into this one as deeply as the first book, but oh boy did it grip my attention once it had it!
Without sharing the labels this novel touched on some more difficult topics like PTSD and domestic violence. It's safe to say there were some pretty intense emotions that the characters were wrestling with as they desperately sought peace and healing. God wasn't forced upon them but seeds were sown that eventually started to take root and it wasn't until they looked up that things started to improve around them. I appreciated that it wasn't made into a miraculous "I'm a Christian now so all my pain and struggles have disappeared" type of healing. Faith in Jesus restores our relationship with the Father but it doesn't immediately fix all of our earthly struggles. He does work in us and through us, but there are things he may not heal us from in this lifetime. It reminds me of the passage in 2 Corinthians 12 when Paul asks God for healing from a thorn in his flesh. God's response is “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Whatever his ailment was, his weakness continually reminded him of his need for Christ. He couldn't do it all on his own, but he also wasn't meant to. Y'all, I think this is a message we could all use a reminder of every now and then.
I truly adored the cast of characters in this book. I especially loved the witty banter between them that proved they were more than just co-workers and friends, but a sort of family. Their care and concern for one another was refreshing to see. The growth that was able to happen in them through the fellowship and spiritual encouragement of one another was also a wonderful thing to witness. I already know I'm going to have a difficult time letting these characters go once I finish the next and final book in the series.
Historical fiction fans? Read this series! I highly recommend it. I will be digging into the next book as soon as I finish this review :)
Without sharing the labels this novel touched on some more difficult topics like PTSD and domestic violence. It's safe to say there were some pretty intense emotions that the characters were wrestling with as they desperately sought peace and healing. God wasn't forced upon them but seeds were sown that eventually started to take root and it wasn't until they looked up that things started to improve around them. I appreciated that it wasn't made into a miraculous "I'm a Christian now so all my pain and struggles have disappeared" type of healing. Faith in Jesus restores our relationship with the Father but it doesn't immediately fix all of our earthly struggles. He does work in us and through us, but there are things he may not heal us from in this lifetime. It reminds me of the passage in 2 Corinthians 12 when Paul asks God for healing from a thorn in his flesh. God's response is “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Whatever his ailment was, his weakness continually reminded him of his need for Christ. He couldn't do it all on his own, but he also wasn't meant to. Y'all, I think this is a message we could all use a reminder of every now and then.
I truly adored the cast of characters in this book. I especially loved the witty banter between them that proved they were more than just co-workers and friends, but a sort of family. Their care and concern for one another was refreshing to see. The growth that was able to happen in them through the fellowship and spiritual encouragement of one another was also a wonderful thing to witness. I already know I'm going to have a difficult time letting these characters go once I finish the next and final book in the series.
Historical fiction fans? Read this series! I highly recommend it. I will be digging into the next book as soon as I finish this review :)
January 29, 2018
I have never read anything by Tracie Peterson or Kimberley Woodhouse, but the idea of Alaska in the early nineteenth century captured my attention. While I know some of these places have been embellished, I really enjoyed learning more about the Alaska Terrority before it became a state. Being a historical romance, I knew the story would feature characters who fell in love, but the story takes place around something historical, but allows the characters to roam around the historical world they live in.
The research was splendid. I enjoy when authors say they have gone to the places their novels take place. Being in a one-income family, I don't have that opportunity at all, so most of my research comes from the internet or books. But I do think being in the place actually makes the story more realistic. Peterson and Woodhouse did a great job at creating a story with clear and concise writing. I could imagine the elaborate Curry Hotel and would love to visit there myself.
The characters of Katherine and Jean-Michel had a love story that started long before this novel. I feel bad for both of them when I learned their love story and why it didn't happen. Katherine was forced into a horrible marriage and figured that was what she was due. Jean-Michel had to learn to move on from the horrors of the war and build strength in his legs as much as in his heart. Their romance was nice and moved in a nice fashion.
The plot didn't rush or drag. I enjoyed the novel the moment I started reading it. Since Alaska was still a terrority and not a state yet. A story set in this time would read different than Jen Turano's stories that take place in the same time period, but in completely different settings. No flapper girls in this stories.
Overall, the plot kept my attention with its unique setting and characters who jumped off the page. Maybe someday, I could add Tracie Peterson's other novels to my to-be read pile, but that is already so big. I think fans of twentieth century historical novels might enjoy Out of the Ashes, a novel set in Alaska in the 1920's.
I received a complimentary copy of Out of the Ashes by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse, but the opinions stated are all my own.
The research was splendid. I enjoy when authors say they have gone to the places their novels take place. Being in a one-income family, I don't have that opportunity at all, so most of my research comes from the internet or books. But I do think being in the place actually makes the story more realistic. Peterson and Woodhouse did a great job at creating a story with clear and concise writing. I could imagine the elaborate Curry Hotel and would love to visit there myself.
The characters of Katherine and Jean-Michel had a love story that started long before this novel. I feel bad for both of them when I learned their love story and why it didn't happen. Katherine was forced into a horrible marriage and figured that was what she was due. Jean-Michel had to learn to move on from the horrors of the war and build strength in his legs as much as in his heart. Their romance was nice and moved in a nice fashion.
The plot didn't rush or drag. I enjoyed the novel the moment I started reading it. Since Alaska was still a terrority and not a state yet. A story set in this time would read different than Jen Turano's stories that take place in the same time period, but in completely different settings. No flapper girls in this stories.
Overall, the plot kept my attention with its unique setting and characters who jumped off the page. Maybe someday, I could add Tracie Peterson's other novels to my to-be read pile, but that is already so big. I think fans of twentieth century historical novels might enjoy Out of the Ashes, a novel set in Alaska in the 1920's.
I received a complimentary copy of Out of the Ashes by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse, but the opinions stated are all my own.
February 25, 2018
Title: Out of the Ashes (The Heart of Alaska #2)
Author: Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse
Pages: 336
Year: 2018
Publisher: Bethany
My rating 5 out of 5 stars.
The authors continue to tell us a story set in Alaska in a hotel that existed long ago, named the Curry. At the end of the novel, there are websites listed for interested readers to visit if they so choose to see unique photos. This second book is a sequel following book one titled, In the Shadow of Denali, which many of us have known as Mount McKinley in Alaska.
We continue to follow the adventures of characters we met in the first book and see how new characters come to the hotel with interesting backgrounds. One of the visitors is a young man and his younger sister from France. Jean-Michel was wounded not just in body but in soul. How can he follow through with his father’s last wishes to turn to God when he doesn’t know how or take of a younger sister he loves yet hardly knows because of the 10-year difference in age?
Katherine is broken from an abusive marriage. Her aging grandmother believes the best thing for her is going on an adventure to Alaska. What Katherine doesn’t know is that her grandmother has secretly set up something in the hope of her granddaughter finding healing, joy and the Lord. Collette is Jean-Michel’s younger sister and is maturing from teen to woman and is lost, having neither parent to guide her into adulthood.
Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse share about their own personal experiences while co-writing this book of times when they themselves have had God bring beauty from ashes. I was touched by their transparency with readers as well as what happens in the work of fiction they share with us. Read and enjoy the first two books before the third book in the series titled, Under the Midnight Sun, is released!
Author: Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse
Pages: 336
Year: 2018
Publisher: Bethany
My rating 5 out of 5 stars.
The authors continue to tell us a story set in Alaska in a hotel that existed long ago, named the Curry. At the end of the novel, there are websites listed for interested readers to visit if they so choose to see unique photos. This second book is a sequel following book one titled, In the Shadow of Denali, which many of us have known as Mount McKinley in Alaska.
We continue to follow the adventures of characters we met in the first book and see how new characters come to the hotel with interesting backgrounds. One of the visitors is a young man and his younger sister from France. Jean-Michel was wounded not just in body but in soul. How can he follow through with his father’s last wishes to turn to God when he doesn’t know how or take of a younger sister he loves yet hardly knows because of the 10-year difference in age?
Katherine is broken from an abusive marriage. Her aging grandmother believes the best thing for her is going on an adventure to Alaska. What Katherine doesn’t know is that her grandmother has secretly set up something in the hope of her granddaughter finding healing, joy and the Lord. Collette is Jean-Michel’s younger sister and is maturing from teen to woman and is lost, having neither parent to guide her into adulthood.
Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse share about their own personal experiences while co-writing this book of times when they themselves have had God bring beauty from ashes. I was touched by their transparency with readers as well as what happens in the work of fiction they share with us. Read and enjoy the first two books before the third book in the series titled, Under the Midnight Sun, is released!
January 17, 2018
I thourghly enjoyed this story and I declare it one Tracie's best yet!
I love Tracie's books because they're so full of action and adventure!!
I can't wait for y'all to read this book!!
I'm glad to see my favorite people return in this book!
Y'all I think what the author is stressing here is you can't do it alone even tho you think u can.
It's what's wrong with this world today. Folks think they can handle whatever is wrong in their every day living leaving God out of their lives.
Tracie has put my very favorite song I learned as a child in Sunday school.
Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to Him belong they are weak and He is strong!!!!
I'm so glad Jesus loves me!!
Like Collette, I sometimes forget and try to go my own way but as always there's a reminder when something drastically happens.
This story also helped me to feel Thankful and Blessed for just being able to live life.
The only thing I really didn't care for was all the complaining that went on just because things got a little rough. Life's too short for all that!!
I admire Mr. Bradley. I even felt sorry for him at times. I wouldn't want his job for all the money or world!!!
I feel he's a very special person to do what he does. I know I couldn't do it!
But anyway I enjoyed the book and I strongly recommend this book.
I received this book for free from Netgalley and was in no way required to review this book.
I love Tracie's books because they're so full of action and adventure!!
I can't wait for y'all to read this book!!
I'm glad to see my favorite people return in this book!
Y'all I think what the author is stressing here is you can't do it alone even tho you think u can.
It's what's wrong with this world today. Folks think they can handle whatever is wrong in their every day living leaving God out of their lives.
Tracie has put my very favorite song I learned as a child in Sunday school.
Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to Him belong they are weak and He is strong!!!!
I'm so glad Jesus loves me!!
Like Collette, I sometimes forget and try to go my own way but as always there's a reminder when something drastically happens.
This story also helped me to feel Thankful and Blessed for just being able to live life.
The only thing I really didn't care for was all the complaining that went on just because things got a little rough. Life's too short for all that!!
I admire Mr. Bradley. I even felt sorry for him at times. I wouldn't want his job for all the money or world!!!
I feel he's a very special person to do what he does. I know I couldn't do it!
But anyway I enjoyed the book and I strongly recommend this book.
I received this book for free from Netgalley and was in no way required to review this book.
January 26, 2018
Out of the Ashes is book two from the Heart of Alaska series. I have not read the first book in the series and did not feel as though I was lost or missing anything. So, I believe this one can be read as a stand alone. But I would like to read In the Shadow of Denali in the near future to see what had happened prior to this one.
Out of the Ashes has several stories going on at the same time. I found the book interesting, but it could be a little confusing at times trying to keep up with all of the characters. The story has a good amount of faith and that I enjoyed. I did not find too overwhelming and made me really think. I give this book 4 stars and recommend it for those who love to read sweet, clean, and inspiring historical reads.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Out of the Ashes has several stories going on at the same time. I found the book interesting, but it could be a little confusing at times trying to keep up with all of the characters. The story has a good amount of faith and that I enjoyed. I did not find too overwhelming and made me really think. I give this book 4 stars and recommend it for those who love to read sweet, clean, and inspiring historical reads.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
January 23, 2018
This is the second in a series. I haven’t read the first one, but I did enjoy this one. The back story was an interesting part of history I had never heard.
I really enjoyed the faith theme in this book. It’s one thing I really miss in much of Christian Fiction today. Seeing the characters grow in their faith as the story progresses was wonderful. I didn’t exactly relate to the characters, but I did enjoy the story. This book was more original than many I have read.
This novel had great characters, an interesting plot, and a terrific faith thread that wove a story I enjoyed. I have purchased the first in the series...and hope to read the next.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed the faith theme in this book. It’s one thing I really miss in much of Christian Fiction today. Seeing the characters grow in their faith as the story progresses was wonderful. I didn’t exactly relate to the characters, but I did enjoy the story. This book was more original than many I have read.
This novel had great characters, an interesting plot, and a terrific faith thread that wove a story I enjoyed. I have purchased the first in the series...and hope to read the next.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2019
Book 2 in the Heart of Alaska series was as good as the first book. I liked the characters a lot and they were very well developed for the most part. My only knock against it is the religious aspects were a little more heavy-handed than book 1, and one of the characters was pretty annoying. I'm starting book 3 tomorrow and looking forward to more about these people and their wonderful life in Alaska. I'll admit, my favorite part of these books is that the people are, for the most part, trying to make the world a better place. Some books seem to just tear you down and wear you out with how horrible the world can be. These books build you up, and I need that in my life.
May 12, 2021
Katherine and Jean-Michel have each been through their own personal nightmares. Who knew a trip to Alaska could help them find God, each other, and hope again?
I really enjoyed this book - I personally thought it more compelling and well-written than the first one in the series. Watching Katherine and Jean-Michel each struggle to overcome their past so they can embrace the future was captivating and felt very real. Cassidy seemed more like a real person in this book too. :) And, I have to admit, it was also nice to read a book that focused more on character development than someone trying to kill all the people around them.
I really enjoyed this book - I personally thought it more compelling and well-written than the first one in the series. Watching Katherine and Jean-Michel each struggle to overcome their past so they can embrace the future was captivating and felt very real. Cassidy seemed more like a real person in this book too. :) And, I have to admit, it was also nice to read a book that focused more on character development than someone trying to kill all the people around them.
March 11, 2018
Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse knows how to tell a good story, and OUT OF THE ASHES is a good story. I know when I pick up a book by this dynamic duo that it will be engaging and hold my interest until the end.
I fell in love with Jean-Michel is the prologue and felt so bad for what he was experiencing. I imagine the man (if he were real) would truly suffer from PTSD. It was that bad. And while he may not remember at the time of the events, when he does it gets pretty frightening when people might not want what he knows made public knowledge.
Katherine -- I felt bad for her too. I have not married an abusive man so I cannot imagine the terror she must've felt not knowing what would set him off. I hated that he isolated her from her family and friends, but I have known men who've done that and it really drives a wedge between them for years to come. Maybe permanently.
I wanted these two to find happiness, and I really cheered for them. I also loved the vivid descriptions of Alaska penned on the pages of this book.
Bravo.
I received a copy of this book free. All opinions are my own.
I fell in love with Jean-Michel is the prologue and felt so bad for what he was experiencing. I imagine the man (if he were real) would truly suffer from PTSD. It was that bad. And while he may not remember at the time of the events, when he does it gets pretty frightening when people might not want what he knows made public knowledge.
Katherine -- I felt bad for her too. I have not married an abusive man so I cannot imagine the terror she must've felt not knowing what would set him off. I hated that he isolated her from her family and friends, but I have known men who've done that and it really drives a wedge between them for years to come. Maybe permanently.
I wanted these two to find happiness, and I really cheered for them. I also loved the vivid descriptions of Alaska penned on the pages of this book.
Bravo.
I received a copy of this book free. All opinions are my own.
October 1, 2024
The Heart of Alaska trilogy was a lovely, comforting work of historical fiction. I looked forward every night to crawl into Curry, Alaska and devour every chapter. The beauty of redemption. As the authors tell it...more importantly we hope you see that God can take our worst circumstances...and transform the ashes into an exquisite masterpiece." Highly recommended.
March 22, 2023
This was a really intriguing story for me. I very much enjoyed the storyline, it pulled me in immediately and I had a hard time putting this one down when life wanted attention. Looking forward to book 3!
June 20, 2023
I have to admit I wasn't sure about this one at first. There were so many story lines swirling about and I couldn't figure out how it was all going to fit together. But fit it did! Add in the setting in Alaska.. some great supporting characters.. a bit of intrigue.. and plenty of romance and you have a wonderful word adventure! No surprise -- Peterson has done it again! Excellent job!
March 19, 2018
“Closing her eyes, Cassidy let it all wash over her. It was here in the shadow of Denali that she felt God’s presence so strongly. She could almost hear Him speak in the rustling trees and the rippling streams. His power in the majesty and glory of the panoramic beauty spread out before her.”
From the very beginning of the book, in the Note from the Authors we read these words, “As we go back to Curry, Alaska, in the 1920’s and the Curry Hotel, we journey with some very broken people.”
Although Out of the Ashes may be read as a stand-alone, I recommend starting with the first novel in The Heart of Alaska series, In the Shadow of Denali. The first book tells the story of Allen and Cassidy, characters whose story continues in Out of the Ashes. However, this story also introduces some new characters, Collette and Jean-Michel Langelier and Katherine Demarchis. Bringing out such subjects as domestic abuse and PTSD, this book is a genuine tear-jerker. The pain and burdens these characters carried and struggled to overcome deeply touched my heart. Journey with these characters to the majesty and beauty of the Alaskan mountains where a discovery of faith and freedom open their hurting hearts once again to love.
There are several other view-point characters in this novel, Thomas, the clumsy young man, Allen and Cassidy have taken underwing, and Mrs. Margaret Johnson, the leathery cook.
And finally, there is Mrs. Harrison, Katherine’s grandmother, a woman who will do absolutely anything to see her granddaughter smile again, even if it means traveling across the world on what could well be her final trip.
I also had a fun connection with the story as Katherine and her grandmother visit Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, a location to which I (at the time of reading) lived within thirty-minutes of. This stop at Mammoth Cave also plays an intricate part of Katherine’s story, but I won’t say anymore…
Out of the Ashes is a remarkable story of faith and finding release from the burdens of sin and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. And while healing cannot come without salvation, this book does well to show that some scars remain for a time and full freedom is found through seeking God every day and allowing his mercy, love, and grace to be renewed every morning.
From the very beginning of the book, in the Note from the Authors we read these words, “As we go back to Curry, Alaska, in the 1920’s and the Curry Hotel, we journey with some very broken people.”
Although Out of the Ashes may be read as a stand-alone, I recommend starting with the first novel in The Heart of Alaska series, In the Shadow of Denali. The first book tells the story of Allen and Cassidy, characters whose story continues in Out of the Ashes. However, this story also introduces some new characters, Collette and Jean-Michel Langelier and Katherine Demarchis. Bringing out such subjects as domestic abuse and PTSD, this book is a genuine tear-jerker. The pain and burdens these characters carried and struggled to overcome deeply touched my heart. Journey with these characters to the majesty and beauty of the Alaskan mountains where a discovery of faith and freedom open their hurting hearts once again to love.
There are several other view-point characters in this novel, Thomas, the clumsy young man, Allen and Cassidy have taken underwing, and Mrs. Margaret Johnson, the leathery cook.
And finally, there is Mrs. Harrison, Katherine’s grandmother, a woman who will do absolutely anything to see her granddaughter smile again, even if it means traveling across the world on what could well be her final trip.
I also had a fun connection with the story as Katherine and her grandmother visit Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, a location to which I (at the time of reading) lived within thirty-minutes of. This stop at Mammoth Cave also plays an intricate part of Katherine’s story, but I won’t say anymore…
Out of the Ashes is a remarkable story of faith and finding release from the burdens of sin and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. And while healing cannot come without salvation, this book does well to show that some scars remain for a time and full freedom is found through seeking God every day and allowing his mercy, love, and grace to be renewed every morning.
February 3, 2019
The opening scenes of the second book in The Heart of Alaska Series take place a half a world away from the Curry Hotel. Having survived an uprising in Syria, Jean-Michel’s return to France is soon followed by the death of his father. In response to the promptings of others, he and his sister embark on a monumental journey to Alaska. As this is happening Katherine Demarchis and her grandmother are also making their way by rail to the foot of Denali. Peterson and Woodhouse use their main characters time in transit to anchor their readers into the backstory of widow Katherine Demarchis and Jean-Michel’s forbidden courtship from years prior as well as the abuses Katherine suffered at the hands of the man her parents chose in his place.
Once everyone converges on the Curry Hotel, I couldn’t help but feel at home with the characters I met in book 1—even cranky ol’ Chef. How could a person not find hope and healing in a place surrounded by majestic beauty and friendly hospitality? Well-known and respected narrator, Christina Moore brings this story to life with her passionate and heartfelt delivery.
Once everyone converges on the Curry Hotel, I couldn’t help but feel at home with the characters I met in book 1—even cranky ol’ Chef. How could a person not find hope and healing in a place surrounded by majestic beauty and friendly hospitality? Well-known and respected narrator, Christina Moore brings this story to life with her passionate and heartfelt delivery.
January 15, 2018
I just don't care for these religious-themed books -- and yes, I am a Christian and I do go to church.. However, I don't need to read about people "getting saved" and "finding Jesus". The story was unlikely in the extreme, but -- it's a novel. I did not read #1, but if I had, I probably would not have read #2. I checked it out because I love reading about Alaska, but this was not a shining example of Alaskan descriptions. I was not familiar with the Druze revolt, so that was of some interest, but the general tone of preachiness was off-putting.
April 8, 2018
Extremely predictable
December 29, 2020
Reads like a commercial. Serious problems with telling instead of showing. None of the characters speak like actual people. Not for me.
January 11, 2018
Having read a couple of books by the author before [1], I am convinced that this author's romances are not really my cup of tea. Yet again we have a historical scene where the protagonists are in a remote place. Again the main characters struggle with PTSD, even if there is no name for it yet, and again there is a high degree of preachiness in the character's interaction with others. There is love and marriage and death, an encouragement of maturity on the part of a silly younger sibling that will likely find a suitor in a later book of the series, and even a first marriage that goes disastrously bad and leaves a young woman conveniently a widow. These are all elements I have read in the author's work previously--there are even interactions with Alaskan natives, although these are less fraught with danger than the interactions in the previous books I read by the author. Clearly this author works within a narrow range of writing historical romances about people tormented with PTSD [2], something I find deeply unsettling and uncomfortable.
This book offers an unusual cast of characters who by chance and design get stuck at the same Alaskan hotel near Mt. McKinley (or Denali, if you prefer). And what is our cast of characters in this preachy melodrama? We have a French young man Jean Michel who is guilty about having avoided World War I but afflicted with leg wounds and PTSD from his experiences in the Druze revolt in the early 1920's in Syria and his flirtatious younger sister Collette, who have just lost their father and are grieving. We have Katherine, a woman that Jean Michel had loved and lost five years ago, who is overcoming the abuse suffered at the hands of her late Senator husband, who is brought to this hotel because of her scheming and (spoiler alert) dying grandmother, who has heart failure and wanted to bring the former lovers back together. We have a Scot-Irish cook and her Scottish assistant, with whom she quarrels continually until he nearly dies and then they get along conveniently. There is a woman who serves as an assistant cook who married a couple of years ago and is having a pregnancy that leaves her confined to her bed. We have a boiler explosion, close encounters of the bear kind, a quarantine because of a flu outbreak, and a French soldier not in his right mind who feels it necessary to deliver a message to try to bring him out of his own torment over what happened in Syria. Much of this is accompanied by a great deal of heavy-handed preaching on the part of the book's characters about the need for a Savoir and solo gracia.
In looking at this book, I get the feeling that the authors are writing this book and the dozens like it in the author's oeuvre for themselves as well as for others. But who else is reading this book. These are not the sort of romances that are likely to gain crossover appeal with many guys. These books seem to be written to reasonably intelligent Christian young women who suffer from PTSD and want to know if love will come their way, and the book promises that it will with a ruggedly handsome military man who suffers from PTSD as well so that two broken people can be healed by the grace of God. That is all well and good, except that life is seldom as convenient as this book would have it, where the circle of people is very small. There is a fine line between a work that is meant to demonstrate divine providence and a book that simply offers unrealistic convenience, and this book (and others by the author) cross that line too often, especially because what divides the couple until the ending in this book seems so unrealistic. I secretly wished for the young woman's husband to actually be alive as that would be a real obstacle, but alas, I was to be disappointed in seeking something that was genuinely a surprise. This is an author I will likely avoid in the future, having given three chances to write a compelling romance and having been disappointed each time.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
[2] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
This book offers an unusual cast of characters who by chance and design get stuck at the same Alaskan hotel near Mt. McKinley (or Denali, if you prefer). And what is our cast of characters in this preachy melodrama? We have a French young man Jean Michel who is guilty about having avoided World War I but afflicted with leg wounds and PTSD from his experiences in the Druze revolt in the early 1920's in Syria and his flirtatious younger sister Collette, who have just lost their father and are grieving. We have Katherine, a woman that Jean Michel had loved and lost five years ago, who is overcoming the abuse suffered at the hands of her late Senator husband, who is brought to this hotel because of her scheming and (spoiler alert) dying grandmother, who has heart failure and wanted to bring the former lovers back together. We have a Scot-Irish cook and her Scottish assistant, with whom she quarrels continually until he nearly dies and then they get along conveniently. There is a woman who serves as an assistant cook who married a couple of years ago and is having a pregnancy that leaves her confined to her bed. We have a boiler explosion, close encounters of the bear kind, a quarantine because of a flu outbreak, and a French soldier not in his right mind who feels it necessary to deliver a message to try to bring him out of his own torment over what happened in Syria. Much of this is accompanied by a great deal of heavy-handed preaching on the part of the book's characters about the need for a Savoir and solo gracia.
In looking at this book, I get the feeling that the authors are writing this book and the dozens like it in the author's oeuvre for themselves as well as for others. But who else is reading this book. These are not the sort of romances that are likely to gain crossover appeal with many guys. These books seem to be written to reasonably intelligent Christian young women who suffer from PTSD and want to know if love will come their way, and the book promises that it will with a ruggedly handsome military man who suffers from PTSD as well so that two broken people can be healed by the grace of God. That is all well and good, except that life is seldom as convenient as this book would have it, where the circle of people is very small. There is a fine line between a work that is meant to demonstrate divine providence and a book that simply offers unrealistic convenience, and this book (and others by the author) cross that line too often, especially because what divides the couple until the ending in this book seems so unrealistic. I secretly wished for the young woman's husband to actually be alive as that would be a real obstacle, but alas, I was to be disappointed in seeking something that was genuinely a surprise. This is an author I will likely avoid in the future, having given three chances to write a compelling romance and having been disappointed each time.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
[2] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
January 26, 2018
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts below are my own.
This tender story is sure to melt your heart! As this story begins, you'll learn about the two main characters, Katherine and Jean-Michel - two people who loved each other but were torn apart. As their lives moved on without each other, their hearts are scarred by battles they each endured separately as the result of the paths their lives take. When Katherine's grandmother becomes involved, the two former lovers are given the opportunity to reconnect and reunite their love from years ago.
I enjoyed the story line and felt both Jean-Michel and Katherine were genuine, endearing characters. They were easy to relate to and their separate journeys in understanding themselves, finding their faith and rekindling a long lost love was so touching.
While Out of the Ashes is clearly the second book in the Heart of Alaska series, I didn't feel like I'd lost anything by not having read book one, In the Shadow of Denali, first or even at all. Out of the Ashes works well as a stand alone novel.
The book opens with all the interesting details readers need to know about the main characters' backgrounds and lays the groundwork for the story. Roughly halfway through, readers might find themselves anxious to skip ahead as there's a bit of a lull in the drama. But keep reading because 3/4 of the way through the story, just as Katherine and Jean-Michel reconnect on a deeper level, an influenza epidemic becomes a very serious concern for the little town. Then, as you would expect, this novel will wrap up quickly and neatly, with the warm-gooey ending you anticipated in the beginning.
I gave this book three stars because I enjoyed the history that I learned in the book and the journey of personal faith for Katherine and Jean-Michel. The two things that kept me from giving Out of the Ashes a higher review was that, for me, the novel had too many perspectives on the story. While I enjoyed learning about the other characters that made up the Curry Hotel staff, I found myself feeling like the novel jumped between different characters' points of view too often and left me wanting more from one character's point of view. As a result of that rapid shift in perspective, I felt that things moved too quickly and that I missed out on the details and depth the story could have held. I believe, however, that the reason for multiple perspectives is because this book IS a part of a series and the authors wish the readers to be able to connect with all the lovely staff of the Curry Hotel in order to enjoy the series as a whole. I am certain that we will find in the book to follow that the lives of these dear characters continue. Secondly, the novel uses the influenza epidemic as a crisis point in the story, but then downplays the reality of it later, with all the characters miraculously getting well but not attending the six funerals of those who passed. I found that hard to fathom in such a close knit little community. Also, little is mentioned of the outcome for the four people who contracted the disease while camped outside of town during the quarantine. At that point in the story, things start to move quickly and wrap up with a predictable ending. Overall, though, this book is truly heartwarming if readers focus on the journey that Katherine and Jean-Michel embark on. By the end of the story, readers have fallen in love with these characters, the Curry Hotel staff and will find themselves wanting to pick up other books in this series.
This tender story is sure to melt your heart! As this story begins, you'll learn about the two main characters, Katherine and Jean-Michel - two people who loved each other but were torn apart. As their lives moved on without each other, their hearts are scarred by battles they each endured separately as the result of the paths their lives take. When Katherine's grandmother becomes involved, the two former lovers are given the opportunity to reconnect and reunite their love from years ago.
I enjoyed the story line and felt both Jean-Michel and Katherine were genuine, endearing characters. They were easy to relate to and their separate journeys in understanding themselves, finding their faith and rekindling a long lost love was so touching.
While Out of the Ashes is clearly the second book in the Heart of Alaska series, I didn't feel like I'd lost anything by not having read book one, In the Shadow of Denali, first or even at all. Out of the Ashes works well as a stand alone novel.
The book opens with all the interesting details readers need to know about the main characters' backgrounds and lays the groundwork for the story. Roughly halfway through, readers might find themselves anxious to skip ahead as there's a bit of a lull in the drama. But keep reading because 3/4 of the way through the story, just as Katherine and Jean-Michel reconnect on a deeper level, an influenza epidemic becomes a very serious concern for the little town. Then, as you would expect, this novel will wrap up quickly and neatly, with the warm-gooey ending you anticipated in the beginning.
I gave this book three stars because I enjoyed the history that I learned in the book and the journey of personal faith for Katherine and Jean-Michel. The two things that kept me from giving Out of the Ashes a higher review was that, for me, the novel had too many perspectives on the story. While I enjoyed learning about the other characters that made up the Curry Hotel staff, I found myself feeling like the novel jumped between different characters' points of view too often and left me wanting more from one character's point of view. As a result of that rapid shift in perspective, I felt that things moved too quickly and that I missed out on the details and depth the story could have held. I believe, however, that the reason for multiple perspectives is because this book IS a part of a series and the authors wish the readers to be able to connect with all the lovely staff of the Curry Hotel in order to enjoy the series as a whole. I am certain that we will find in the book to follow that the lives of these dear characters continue. Secondly, the novel uses the influenza epidemic as a crisis point in the story, but then downplays the reality of it later, with all the characters miraculously getting well but not attending the six funerals of those who passed. I found that hard to fathom in such a close knit little community. Also, little is mentioned of the outcome for the four people who contracted the disease while camped outside of town during the quarantine. At that point in the story, things start to move quickly and wrap up with a predictable ending. Overall, though, this book is truly heartwarming if readers focus on the journey that Katherine and Jean-Michel embark on. By the end of the story, readers have fallen in love with these characters, the Curry Hotel staff and will find themselves wanting to pick up other books in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2018
Another great historical romance set along the Alaskan frontier at the Curry Hotel!
Katherine Demarchis has recently been windowed (and released) from her abusive husband, who was also a US senator. Now a shell of her former self, her grandmother Maria Harrison is bound and determined to get her to find her happiness again. The last time that she was actually happy was with a young man that she truly loved when she lived in France. Her grandmother suggest a summer spent in Alaska with a sightseeing trip along the way. Knowing that she will be constantly badgered by her grandmother if she doesn’t agree, she relents and hopes that just maybe she will be released from the blackness along the way.
Jean-Michel lives with the torments of war in Syria from the Druze revolt. He returned home in France to his sister Colette and their father, but their father took ill rather quickly and passed away. With his share of the business bought out, Jean-Michel and Collette do not have to worry for money and father wrote them letters before he died suggesting that they take a trip after he is gone. Shortly thereafter, Jean-Michel receives a letter from Maria Harrison telling him part of the horrors of his lost love Katherine and sends tickets to join them in Alaska this summer. Might this be what Jean-Michel needs to let go of the past?
Traveling back to Curry again was an absolute treat, especially getting to see so many of the central characters from the first book. The storyline intertwined between that of Jean-Michel and Katherine, Colette, and Allan and Cassidy. As with the first book, the main characters do not have a central relationship with God which would allow them to release the baggage that they carry throughout much of the book. As they progress, they find they cannot do this alone. The suspense is also kicked up a notch when the influenza virus hits the curry hotel and some of the characters take ill, possibly never to be heard from again.
The book is filled with history, suspense, humor, and a resounding theme of forgiveness. I recommend this book to all ages that love a great story about the history of Alaska.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Katherine Demarchis has recently been windowed (and released) from her abusive husband, who was also a US senator. Now a shell of her former self, her grandmother Maria Harrison is bound and determined to get her to find her happiness again. The last time that she was actually happy was with a young man that she truly loved when she lived in France. Her grandmother suggest a summer spent in Alaska with a sightseeing trip along the way. Knowing that she will be constantly badgered by her grandmother if she doesn’t agree, she relents and hopes that just maybe she will be released from the blackness along the way.
Jean-Michel lives with the torments of war in Syria from the Druze revolt. He returned home in France to his sister Colette and their father, but their father took ill rather quickly and passed away. With his share of the business bought out, Jean-Michel and Collette do not have to worry for money and father wrote them letters before he died suggesting that they take a trip after he is gone. Shortly thereafter, Jean-Michel receives a letter from Maria Harrison telling him part of the horrors of his lost love Katherine and sends tickets to join them in Alaska this summer. Might this be what Jean-Michel needs to let go of the past?
Traveling back to Curry again was an absolute treat, especially getting to see so many of the central characters from the first book. The storyline intertwined between that of Jean-Michel and Katherine, Colette, and Allan and Cassidy. As with the first book, the main characters do not have a central relationship with God which would allow them to release the baggage that they carry throughout much of the book. As they progress, they find they cannot do this alone. The suspense is also kicked up a notch when the influenza virus hits the curry hotel and some of the characters take ill, possibly never to be heard from again.
The book is filled with history, suspense, humor, and a resounding theme of forgiveness. I recommend this book to all ages that love a great story about the history of Alaska.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
March 10, 2018
At long last, the sequel to a book adored by many has finally been released! “Out of the Ashes” is book number two in “The Heart of Alaska” series written by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse, and was published by Bethany House at the start of 2018. This delightful novel continues the stories of many characters from the first book (“In the Shadow of Denali”), and also introduces several fascinating new characters who find God’s hope and healing in the beautiful wilderness of Alaska.
A unique feature that I love about this book is the large number of characters who help reveal the story... Just off the top of my head, I can count six different viewpoints the story is told by. Some are more prominent than others, of course, yet this technique really helps the story come to life in a special way, and allows readers to witness what is happening through different eyes.
Themes of faith, trust, redemption, truth, love, and many more adorn the pages of this book, and really gave me some thought-provoking questions to ponder as the characters wrestled and contemplated these issues in their own lives. In some novels the theme of faith can seem like an afterthought - but that is never the case in “Out of the Ashes”. On the contrary, it felt to me as though faith was the foundation of the story, and the plot and characters were built up from that. Of course, this isn’t to say that the people, their stories, and the beautiful setting of Alaska aren’t vivid and lifelike and captivating, because they definitely are, but it feels as though the primary reason for telling this story was to share God’s truth.
The compelling combination of story, theme, setting, and characterization made “Out of the Ashes” very difficult to put down, and almost heartbreaking to finish. I didn’t want to leave the Curry Hotel, or any of my “friends” who reside there! Thankfully we will have one more chance to revisit them in the third installment of “The Heart of Alaska” series, when “Under the Midnight Sun” releases.
“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”
A unique feature that I love about this book is the large number of characters who help reveal the story... Just off the top of my head, I can count six different viewpoints the story is told by. Some are more prominent than others, of course, yet this technique really helps the story come to life in a special way, and allows readers to witness what is happening through different eyes.
Themes of faith, trust, redemption, truth, love, and many more adorn the pages of this book, and really gave me some thought-provoking questions to ponder as the characters wrestled and contemplated these issues in their own lives. In some novels the theme of faith can seem like an afterthought - but that is never the case in “Out of the Ashes”. On the contrary, it felt to me as though faith was the foundation of the story, and the plot and characters were built up from that. Of course, this isn’t to say that the people, their stories, and the beautiful setting of Alaska aren’t vivid and lifelike and captivating, because they definitely are, but it feels as though the primary reason for telling this story was to share God’s truth.
The compelling combination of story, theme, setting, and characterization made “Out of the Ashes” very difficult to put down, and almost heartbreaking to finish. I didn’t want to leave the Curry Hotel, or any of my “friends” who reside there! Thankfully we will have one more chance to revisit them in the third installment of “The Heart of Alaska” series, when “Under the Midnight Sun” releases.
“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”
January 30, 2018
About the Book:
After the death of their father, Collette and Jean-Michel Langelier are no longer tied to post-war France. While his sister dreams of adventure, Jean-Michel is hoping to finally escape reminders of the horrors he faced in the war. When Jean-Michel receives an unexpected invitation for them to visit Alaska and the Curry Hotel, it seems an opportunity for a change he needs.
Katherine Demarchis is a young widow who does not grieve the dangerous husband she was forced to marry. Now she just wants to retreat to a quiet life, content to be alone. First, though, she's agreed to accompany her grandmother on a final trip, but never expects to see a man from her past.
Katherine and Jean-Michel once shared a deep love that was torn apart by forces beyond their control. Reunited now, have the years changed them too deeply to rediscover what they had? And when Jean-Michel's nightmares return with terrifying consequences, will faith be enough to heal what's been broken for so long?
My Review:
Katherine and Jean-Michel never realized that fate or the hand of God could bring them back together at this point in their lives but thats exactly what is happening to them at this very moment. After so much that has happened to their romance and in their lives sense, it looks like they may actually get a second chance at this. Will they choose to pursue it or just remain friends?
Jean-Michel is plagued by the horrors he faced during the war and poor Katherine feels she will never get a leg up in this life due to everyone making decisions for her. So they both just focus on surviving, at this point. War changes people and the lives they once led and the story of these two characters proves that.
The two of these authers coming together has created a dynamic duo and it is a good one! Looking forward to more from them and this series. Great read!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
After the death of their father, Collette and Jean-Michel Langelier are no longer tied to post-war France. While his sister dreams of adventure, Jean-Michel is hoping to finally escape reminders of the horrors he faced in the war. When Jean-Michel receives an unexpected invitation for them to visit Alaska and the Curry Hotel, it seems an opportunity for a change he needs.
Katherine Demarchis is a young widow who does not grieve the dangerous husband she was forced to marry. Now she just wants to retreat to a quiet life, content to be alone. First, though, she's agreed to accompany her grandmother on a final trip, but never expects to see a man from her past.
Katherine and Jean-Michel once shared a deep love that was torn apart by forces beyond their control. Reunited now, have the years changed them too deeply to rediscover what they had? And when Jean-Michel's nightmares return with terrifying consequences, will faith be enough to heal what's been broken for so long?
My Review:
Katherine and Jean-Michel never realized that fate or the hand of God could bring them back together at this point in their lives but thats exactly what is happening to them at this very moment. After so much that has happened to their romance and in their lives sense, it looks like they may actually get a second chance at this. Will they choose to pursue it or just remain friends?
Jean-Michel is plagued by the horrors he faced during the war and poor Katherine feels she will never get a leg up in this life due to everyone making decisions for her. So they both just focus on surviving, at this point. War changes people and the lives they once led and the story of these two characters proves that.
The two of these authers coming together has created a dynamic duo and it is a good one! Looking forward to more from them and this series. Great read!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
March 28, 2018
I have a gorgeous photo of Denali on my smart phone screen. No I’ve never had the opportunity to visit Alaska but my daughter and son-in-law went last summer and the clouds lifted long enough for her to take some spectacular photos and was generous enough to share with me. At this point in my life, most of my traveling will most likely be done through the pages of my beloved books and the lens of my daughter’s camera. Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse have provided me with a historical suspense that helped to bring life to my daughter’s image.
I can always expect a lovely romantic story from Tracie Peterson, usually one filled with obstacles to help keep it interesting. When Peterson joins forces with Kimberly Woodhouse, the suspense seems to be raised a few notches and I can be sure of an exciting story. That was certainly the case with “Out of the Ashes”.
The second book in The Heart of Alaska series, “Out of the Ashes” also takes place mostly in or in the vicinity of the Curry Hotel. Two young people have been brought together through the mechanization of a loving grandmother who wants the best for her granddaughter but neither Katherine nor Jean-Michel are the same people who fell in love so many years ago. Life has left its mark on each of them and it could be too late for a life together again.
As always, I was immediately sucked into the story and had great difficulty putting it down to take care of mundane everyday chores. The plot was expertly constructed with just enough description and historical facts to keep it interesting. Scripture was also inserted at just the right points, time and again. There was absolutely nothing I didn’t like about this story except maybe the fact that it ended. I can’t wait for another installment.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required.All views expressed are my own.
I can always expect a lovely romantic story from Tracie Peterson, usually one filled with obstacles to help keep it interesting. When Peterson joins forces with Kimberly Woodhouse, the suspense seems to be raised a few notches and I can be sure of an exciting story. That was certainly the case with “Out of the Ashes”.
The second book in The Heart of Alaska series, “Out of the Ashes” also takes place mostly in or in the vicinity of the Curry Hotel. Two young people have been brought together through the mechanization of a loving grandmother who wants the best for her granddaughter but neither Katherine nor Jean-Michel are the same people who fell in love so many years ago. Life has left its mark on each of them and it could be too late for a life together again.
As always, I was immediately sucked into the story and had great difficulty putting it down to take care of mundane everyday chores. The plot was expertly constructed with just enough description and historical facts to keep it interesting. Scripture was also inserted at just the right points, time and again. There was absolutely nothing I didn’t like about this story except maybe the fact that it ended. I can’t wait for another installment.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required.All views expressed are my own.
February 1, 2018
Out of the Ashes is book two in The Heart of Alaska series written by Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse. This is a great story that follows the first book in the series. We return to The Curry Hotel and the characters of the first book.
Collette and Jean-Michel Langelier, from France, have recently lost their father. Their father has left them both letters, one instructing them to travel. Jean-Michel was injured in the Syrian Revolt and does not want to travel. He receives a letter from the aunt of an ex-girlfriend, asking him to travel to Mt. Denali, Alaska to help her heal from her past.
Katherine and Jean-Michel met each other years ago. When her father found out how serious their relationship was, he moved the family back to the United States and forced Kimberly to marry. Her husband was an abusive man who left her suffering emotionally, even after his death. With her grandmother's insistence, they travel around the United States and end up in Alaska. When Katherine feels strong enough to spend time with Jean-Michel, they work toward helping each other heal from their past injuries and try to move forward.
I really enjoyed this story. I enjoyed the happenings in the hotel kitchen with the head cook. I've also enjoyed how Thomas has matured since the beginning of the first story. One of the things that stands out for me in this story is how eager Cassidy is to share her faith and help others in their Christian walk. I also enjoyed how Collette has gone from a young lady concerned about only herself to a person who helps others and puts them before herself.
I truly feel anyone who enjoys reading historical fiction will enjoy this story. It is a well written, good clean story that inspires the reader.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review.
Collette and Jean-Michel Langelier, from France, have recently lost their father. Their father has left them both letters, one instructing them to travel. Jean-Michel was injured in the Syrian Revolt and does not want to travel. He receives a letter from the aunt of an ex-girlfriend, asking him to travel to Mt. Denali, Alaska to help her heal from her past.
Katherine and Jean-Michel met each other years ago. When her father found out how serious their relationship was, he moved the family back to the United States and forced Kimberly to marry. Her husband was an abusive man who left her suffering emotionally, even after his death. With her grandmother's insistence, they travel around the United States and end up in Alaska. When Katherine feels strong enough to spend time with Jean-Michel, they work toward helping each other heal from their past injuries and try to move forward.
I really enjoyed this story. I enjoyed the happenings in the hotel kitchen with the head cook. I've also enjoyed how Thomas has matured since the beginning of the first story. One of the things that stands out for me in this story is how eager Cassidy is to share her faith and help others in their Christian walk. I also enjoyed how Collette has gone from a young lady concerned about only herself to a person who helps others and puts them before herself.
I truly feel anyone who enjoys reading historical fiction will enjoy this story. It is a well written, good clean story that inspires the reader.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review.
January 25, 2018
Out of the Ashes is the second in the Heart of Alaska series by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse. Multiple characters, carrying their own burdens, fear that they cannot go on in a life so damaged by the bad things from their past. The main characters, Jean-Michel and Katherine, were once in love, but Katherine’s father had torn them apart and forced her to marry a senator who turned out to be an abusive demon.
After her husband’s death and the accidental death of her parents, Katherine is alone with her elderly grandmother who is determined to lead Katherine to God and back to her beloved Jean-Michel. Grandmother plans a trip to Curry, Alaska (setting of In the Shadow of Denali, the first novel in this series). She then contacts Jean-Michel in France who has lost both of his parents and struggles with nightmares from his war experiences while trying to finish raising his flighty, self-absorbed, 19-year-old sister Collette. With the grandmother’s letter, which arrived just as Collette had been begging Jean-Michel to take a trip to America. The letter included tickets for Jean-Michel to travel to Alaska. He was unsure of his ability to help Katherine as requested by her grandmother, but then Collette accidentally found the tickets and Jean-Michel realized he'd have to satisfy his sister's need for adventure.
Lots of people in this novel need redemption, including some of the familiar characters from the first book in this series. Can they rise from the ashes of their past lives to overcome all their grief, hurt, and selfishness?
NOTE: I received a free electronic copy of this from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.
After her husband’s death and the accidental death of her parents, Katherine is alone with her elderly grandmother who is determined to lead Katherine to God and back to her beloved Jean-Michel. Grandmother plans a trip to Curry, Alaska (setting of In the Shadow of Denali, the first novel in this series). She then contacts Jean-Michel in France who has lost both of his parents and struggles with nightmares from his war experiences while trying to finish raising his flighty, self-absorbed, 19-year-old sister Collette. With the grandmother’s letter, which arrived just as Collette had been begging Jean-Michel to take a trip to America. The letter included tickets for Jean-Michel to travel to Alaska. He was unsure of his ability to help Katherine as requested by her grandmother, but then Collette accidentally found the tickets and Jean-Michel realized he'd have to satisfy his sister's need for adventure.
Lots of people in this novel need redemption, including some of the familiar characters from the first book in this series. Can they rise from the ashes of their past lives to overcome all their grief, hurt, and selfishness?
NOTE: I received a free electronic copy of this from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.
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