If you gravitate toward heartfelt historical romances with a dash of realism, this is a winner. The story goes beyond swoonworthy romance to explore deep themes of resilience and second chances. Susanna, a divorced woman facing stigma in a frontier fort, and Joe, a widowed doctor with wounds of his own, quietly support each other as they heal. The setting - Wyoming post-Civil War - is vivid, and Carla Kelly truly shines at capturing the struggles of everyday people. Perfect for fans of gentle, character-driven love stories and anyone who loves emotional journeys with strong but quietly courageous leads.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Readers who crave fast-paced plots or lots of dramatic twists might find the slower, steady storytelling less engaging. If you prefer your romance fiery and bursting with tension, the subtle, respectful buildup here may feel too gentle. And those wanting larger-than-life, flawed protagonists may think Susanna and Joe are a bit too good to ring totally true. Some also felt the last portion dragged a bit.

A tender, thoughtful frontier romance where quiet strength and empathy shine - come for the historical detail, stay for the gentle love story.

About:

Carla Kelly's 'Her Hesitant Heart' follows the journey of Susanna, a divorcee starting over at a frontier army post, and Joe, a widower army doctor, as they navigate their past sorrows and find solace in each other's company. Set against the backdrop of 1865 Ft. Laramie, Wyoming, the story unfolds with themes of resilience, compassion, and the challenges faced by individuals during a time of war on the plains. The narrative skillfully portrays the characters' emotional growth, progressing from tentative friendship to earnest commitment, all while dealing with realistic challenges and hardships.

The book offers a slower-paced, yet engaging storyline that intricately weaves together the lives of Susanna and Joe, providing glimpses into the daily life of an army fort during the historical period. With a focus on character development and a gentle, slow-building romance, Kelly's writing style brings to life the setting of the American Western frontier, offering a blend of realism, historical detail, and emotional depth that captivates readers till the end.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Susanna being a resilient woman and Joe as a caring doctor, both facing personal struggles and forming meaningful relationships.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is described as excellent with tender narrative and genuine dialogue, enhanced by detailed historical settings.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a divorced woman starting anew in the West after escaping an abusive relationship, encountering societal judgment, and developing a romance with a supportive army doctor.

Setting:

The story is set in a historically rich environment, specifically at an army garrison during a tumultuous time in American history.

Pacing:

The pacing is slow and deliberate, facilitating deep character development and gradual relationship progression.

Emily Reese, not the brightest lady, had been unable to furnish Major Joseph Randolph, Fort Laramie’s post surgeon, with a working description of Susanna Hopkins, her older cousin. “I think she is thi...

Notes:

The main character, Susanna, flees her abusive husband to start a new life in the West.

Joe is a kind army doctor who helps Susanna adjust to life at Fort Laramie.

The story highlights the harsh societal conditions divorced women faced in the 1860s.

Susanna is characterized by her resilience and empathy, shaped by her past experiences.

The book features a gentle and slow-growing romance between Susanna and Joe.

Historical details about life in a western fort during the Indian wars are woven into the plot.

The narrative addresses themes of judgment, acceptance, and personal growth.

Both main characters have faced significant trauma and loss, making their connection deeper.

Carla Kelly's writing emphasizes the struggles of ordinary people during difficult times in history.

The book contrasts Susanna's vulnerability with Joe's support, creating a strong bond between them.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of domestic abuse, divorce, and social ostracization.

Has Romance?

Yes, there is a high level of romance present in the story, as it focuses on the developing relationship between the main characters.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

RITA Award-Winning Author: She's starting a new life on the Wyoming frontier-but is her heart ready for a new love?

Tired and hungry after two days of traveling, Susanna Hopkins is just about at the end of her tether when her train finally arrives in Cheyenne. She's bound for a new life in a Western garrison town. Then she discovers she doesn't even have enough money to pay for the stagecoach! Luckily for her, the compassionate Major Joseph Randolph is heading in the same direction.

As a military surgeon, Joe is used to keeping his professional distance and tries not to dwell on Susanna's understated beauty, But he's drawn to this woman who carries loss and pain equal to his own and has a heart that is just as hesitant and wary. . . .

"Kelly has the rare ability to create realistic yet sympathetic characters that linger in the mind." - Library Journal

April 2013

•

308 pages

Reader Stats (7):

Read It (1)
Want To Read (5)
Not Interested (1)

What can you read after
Her Hesitant Heart?

See the list (100 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Her Hesitant Heart

Carla Kelly

Who Would Like This Book: