
Kristina Barnes
A Warrior’s Heart by Misty M. Beller is the first book in the Brides of Laurent series. I have always enjoyed Misty’s books for the gorgeous Western setting and epic adventures across mountain ranges. This book is a little different in that it takes place in one location, but what a beautiful place to stay for this story! I loved learning about the unique village of Laurent and the strong and innovative people who lived there. It was fascinating to get a close-up look at their way of life. How they taught several languages to their children, the French-inspired food, and how they literally carved a way of life into the heart of a mountain. I loved strong heroines, and the author is great at writing women warriors. I loved how Brielle was a leader, respected among all the villagers--including men. But I also loved how she was still a woman with vulnerabilities all her own. It didn’t take long for me to admire her as well. I loved Evan. I loved his tenacity, his loyalty, and his big, passionate heart. He has all the physical attributes of a typical handsome hero, but it is pride and affection for Brielle and her strong role in the community that really won me over. Overall, I loved this story. It had fantastic adventure, history, and (of course!) romance. Any fan of Beller’s will enjoy this new series. And any Christian historical fiction fans will love it, too! I was given a copy of this book by Celebrate Lit with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Terri Dickey
A Warrior's Heart is an amazing story of a village that is hidden away in the Canadian wilderness and the people that live there and have for several generations. Brielle is the leader of the hunters and protectors of Laurent and when she sees a man coming toward their hidden village she takes action to protect the people she loves. She has no idea what is in store for her but her world is about to change. Evan is traveling deep into the Canadian Rockies in search of pitchblende. It is a mineral that he and others hope with help the Americans win the war with England. This mineral could save thousands of lives and he is on a secret mission to find it. This is a great story and beginning for Brielle and Evan. There is danger, mistrust, evil, kindness, and so much more. The characters are all well thought out and interesting. I was quickly wrapped up in the lives of these people and wanted more. I love how this author shows us the strength that women from this era possessed. Brielle is a strong woman that has earned her place as leader of the warriors in her group but she also has a heart and wants to be loved as well. I also loved that she shows Evan as a strong man who is dedicated to his mission but who also has compassion for others. Just a great story and I can't wait for more.

Hope
A solider on a secret mission to help end the war. A beautiful lady warrior determined to protect the people she loves. One day will change their lives forever. Misty's newest story intrigued me from the get go, and brought me on a journey filled with faith, danger, and romance. I can literally imagine this story playing out as a movie with the secret village of Laurent and the fierce lady warrior Brielle bravely defending the people she loves. Misty's writing is so good and always takes her readers on a journey with every story. I was also personally inspired by Evan and his fervent prayers in a way other novels have failed to inspire me.