Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn by Lori Benton

Tamsen Littlejohn follows Jesse Bird into an unknown wilderness filled with treacherous terrain, threat of Indian attacks, and a looming war, but what Tamsen is running from is even darker. In order escape her stepfather’s plan to force her into an arranged marriage, Tamsen decides to escape. Jesse Bird has offered his assistance, and she is going to take it.

The first time Jesse Bird lays eyes on Tamsen Littlejohn, he is entranced. He feels like he knows this woman. When he finds her in a situation that is bound to get worse for her, he does the only thing he can think of and offers to take her away from it. As Jesse and Tamsen travel west, they are met with challenges from nature, humanity, and the stepfather and would-be husband who are giving chase. Tamsen is not prepared for this life, and Jesse knows it, but knows no other way to keep this woman safe, which he is determined to do.

Lori Benton weaves intrigue, history, and romance throughout The Pursuit of Tamsen Litlejohn. Readers will travel the country of North Carolina along with Tamsen and Jesse, feel the uncertainty of wars brewing between the state of North Carolina and the State of Franklin as well as the war brewing between the Indians and the white settlers, and long for the relationship between the two main characters to take root and grow. The supporting characters add depth and insight. Historical fiction isn’t usually my first choice when it comes to books I’d like to read, but this one was worth it.

****Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review. I was not compensated in any way for either a positive or a negative review.