Faith Like a Mustard Seed
Religion, race and gender work against good friends Faith and Honoree, as they attempt to
tend to the Union’s wounded during the Civil War. Many things cause an uphill battle for them. Faith is a Quaker, and that denomination’s stance against slavery have many people blaming the Quakers for starting the war. Honoree is African American, and despite being free-born, is often treated less than equal, even by the Union troops. Although both women are trained nurses, that profession did not have any respect in those days. Many doctors viewed them as little more than women with loose morals, and not helpful, but a hindrance, to have with the patients.
Both women keep persevering in their jobs because they have one goal in mind: find Shiloh. Years earlier, Faith’s childhood friend, and Honoree’s sister, Shiloh–despite being a free-born woman–had been kidnapped, and taken south to be sold as a slave. They have 
been following what few leads they have about where Shiloh might be. But at this point, Faith and Honoree must stay with the Union troops until they can find a way to safely investigate the areas that are still under Southern occupation.
As the Union pushes closer to Shiloh’s possible location, Faith becomes friends with Colonial Knight. Although he is a Union soldier, the Colonial has had a slave for many years, although he claims he will be giving him his freedom very soon. Despite Faith’s growing attachment for him, Faith does not see how it could work for them since they have such opposite viewpoints about slavery.
Other obstacles have occurred that make their search for Shiloh difficult. As winter approaches, even the Union camp is struggling with many hardships, and shortages. Faith and Honoree are pressured by their family and loved ones to return home where they will have plenty of food, and not have to live out in the elements. Both women have also faced dangerous situations since their search has taken place during war-time conditions. Faith and Honoree have to make a decision that they can live with. 
This was an amazing book. To be honest, I did not think I would enjoy it at all, but was surprised by how quickly the story drew me in. The author did such wonderful research, that this seemed like this story was about real people instead of a fictional account. The personal struggles the main characters have, along with their faith in God, all ring true. Although this is book three in the Quaker Brides Series, this story stands alone. I highly recommend this 5-star book to anyone who likes Civil War or historical fiction, as well as, anyone who enjoys a well-written story.
Tyndale House Publishers has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Faith, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
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