MY REVIEW:
The Crossing at Cypress Creek is the exciting conclusion to Pam Hillman’s Natchez Trace series. Another of the O’Sheas enters the scene and Caleb is just as endearing as his brothers, a bit of an Irish scamp with a history he regrets yet totally loyal and protective of those weaker than himself. Alanah Adams was a strong, independent woman, accustomed to taking care of herself. Her knowledge of herbal medicine and healing were not only helpful in the wilderness but a much needed source of income for her family. Several secondary characters who added extra depth to the story included Lydia, , Caleb’s giant of a companion, Alanah’s sister Betsy, their Uncle Jude, and the ruthless pirates who plagued the area. Of course we can’t forget the O’Shea brothers and their wives who had their own stories in the first two books of the series.
Alanah was a multifaceted woman who was at home in the wilderness but could easily fit in with society. Feisty and brave, she was well matched to former mercenary Caleb who had a tendency to wander but would fight to the death for those he cared about. I was not a fan of Uncle Jude, a preacher whose attitude towards his nieces disturbed me. Thankfully, changes took place before the story ended which helped to redeem my opinion of him.
There are so many good things I could say about The Crossing at Cypress Creek but I feel totally inadequate to express them as eloquently as I would like. I love all of Pam Hillman’s books and this one may be my favorite yet. If you enjoy your history peppered with plenty of action, danger, and adventure, authentic characters, a sometimes complicated romance, a touch of humor, and an uncompromised message of faith, the The Crossing at Cypress Creek (as well as the rest of the series) should be quickly added to your TBR list.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Sailing and soldiering around the world has taken Caleb O’Shea far from his native Ireland, so he never imagined that a promise to see a fellow crewman safely home would practically land him on his brother’s doorstep. After spending years away from his family, Caleb isn’t certain what kind of reception he will receive when he steps foot in Natchez, Mississippi. The one thing he knows for sure is that he won’t stay long.
Since her sister was kidnapped by river pirates six months ago, Alanah Adams has taken special care to avoid drawing attention to herself. Those living in the rough-and-tumble settlement of Cypress Creek might even think she’s addled. But when she stumbles into Caleb and his friends in Natchez, she appears to be the picture-perfect lady.
Caleb only catches glimpses of the mysterious and beautiful Alanah before she disappears. But a chance encounter with her at his brother’s logging camp near Cypress Creek leaves him uncomfortable at the thought of the young woman traversing the dangerous area alone. At a crossroads in his life, Caleb must decide whether he wants to give up the worldly adventures he’s been seeking for one closer to home.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
CBA Bestselling author PAM HILLMAN was born and raised on a dairy farm in Mississippi and spent her teenage years perched on the seat of a tractor raking hay. In those days, her daddy couldn’t afford two cab tractors with air conditioning and a radio, so Pam drove an Allis Chalmers 110. Even when her daddy asked her if she wanted to bale hay, she told him she didn’t mind raking. Raking hay doesn’t take much thought so Pam spent her time working on her tan and making up stories in her head. Now, that’s the kind of life every girl should dream of.
Connect with Pam online at her website (pamhillman.com) or on either of these social media platforms:
