Always to Remember

Lorraine Heath

Save:

Find on Amazon

historical romance

post civil war setting

conscientious objector

prejudice and hatred

themes of courage

redemption narrative

emotive writing style

complex relationship

societal expectations

multifaceted characters

slow and deliberate pacing

emotional depth

societal divides

thought provoking

'Always to Remember' by Lorraine Heath is a heart-wrenching historical romance set during the Civil War, focusing on the story of Clay, a conscientious objector who faces prejudice and hatred in his hometown for refusing to fight. The book delves into themes of courage, prejudice, and redemption, as Clay and Meg navigate their complex relationship amidst societal expectations and personal struggles. The writing style is described as emotive, thought-provoking, and engaging, with well-developed characters and a unique premise that sets it apart from other Western historicals.

Characters:

The characters are multifaceted, with Clay presented as a noble hero and Meg undergoing substantial development throughout the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is emotional and immersive, effectively conveying complex characters and their journeys.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot is centered around themes of courage, redemption, and the complexities of human emotions, set against the backdrop of post-Civil War tensions.

Setting:

The setting is a post-Civil War small town, emphasizing the societal divides and emotional weight of the characters' struggles.

Pacing:

The pacing is slow and deliberate, enhancing the emotional depth and complexity of character interactions.

He threw back the covers, clambered out of bed, and made his way to the window. Unlatching the shutters and pushing them open, he breathed deeply, inhaling the scent of rain. Reaching out, he relished...

Notes:

The book is set after the American Civil War, exploring themes of love, hate, and redemption.

The main character, Clay, is a conscientious objector who refuses to fight in the war and faces severe backlash from his community.

Meg, the heroine, starts off as bitter and angry due to the loss of her husband and brothers in the war, which initially leads her to hate Clay.

Clay is portrayed as a beta hero, kind-hearted and gentle, who suffers from being labeled a coward by the townspeople.

The story highlights the complexities of human emotions and moral convictions, asking what truly constitutes courage.

Clay's loyalty and courage gradually sway Meg's views, and she undergoes significant character development throughout the story.

The book features a diverse cast of supporting characters, including Meg's wise grandmother and Clay's supportive younger brothers.

The narrative includes poignant moments that evoke a wide range of emotions, from sadness to joy, and emphasizes the healing power of love and forgiveness.

Lorraine Heath successfully balances the personal struggles of the characters with broader social issues related to the Civil War, without politicizing the storyline.

Readers are impressed by the depth of character development and the emotional weight of the themes, often finding the book inspiring and moving.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains medium-level content warnings for themes related to grief, prejudice, and emotional abuse.

Has Romance?

The romance element is significant and central to the story.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Branded a traitor and imprisoned for refusing to fight for the Confederacy, Clayton Holland returns home to Cedar Grove, only to be spurned by the townspeople, except for vengeful Meg Warner, who finds her hatred and grief transformed by love.

Ratings (4)

Loved It (2)
Liked It (2)

Reader Stats (9):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (5)
Not Interested (1)

What can you read after
Always to Remember?

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.

Activity

Recommendations

My Stuff

Account

More