Colors of Truth (Carnton) Paperback – September 26, 2020

This story’s beginning had me wondering how it would hold my interest, especially after reading the first book. But soon it had me involved in a pleasant read as the story took on depth. I am now a trusting fan of Tamera’s work and will be reading more. You should, too, in my opinion…

Wow! I am still basking in the glow of this beautiful story. I so appreciate the depth of research and the beautiful storytelling & faith-filled writing that is found in every single Tamera Alexander book. And Colors of Truth is a shining example. It was extra meaningful to read this story after touring Carnton and learning about the family who lived there, the history that happened there and walking around the battlefield and the cemetery. I read this book of 492 pages in record time and loved every minute of it. This beautiful & riveting story takes place in Tennessee in 1866 post-civil-war in a time of great upheaval and change. The old saying "The more things change, the more they stay the same" is true on some level in every generation, and this quote from the book applies to the past and the present "We don't have to agree on everything, and we never will. But we must find a way to live in peace together."A few other memorable quotes I enjoyed:"I'm careful. And cautious. That's better than worried any day.""Drink in beauty wherever you can find it, son. And be grateful. Beauty is a treasure and a foretaste of heaven.""The grave wasn't the end of life. For those who trusted Jesus, it was only the beginning.""And because as hard as it is to face the truth, it's even harder to live with a lie."Thank you dear author Tamera Alexander for using your gift of storytelling to touch my heart with every story!

Colors of Truth is another brilliant work of historical fiction from Tamera Alexander. As she did in her Belle Meade and Belmont series, she continues in the Carnton series to take real people, authentic locations, and actual events from near-Civil-war times, add fictional characters and events, and weave gripping stories.A pivotal point in the history of our country -- both the good and the ugly -- and the wonderful truths of God shine through in this beautifully crafted story. The real and fictional characters come alive and jump off the page as they invite us into their lives. I don't believe you can read this book and not feel deeply for the individuals depicted.I highly recommend Colors of Truth to fans of great historical fiction. Besides being inspired by a great story, you just might learn some fascinating fine points of history as well. I am anxiously waiting to visit Carnton again in the next Tamera Alexander masterpiece.

Finally, FINALLY, I got to read Colors of Truth! I was so disappointed when the July release was pushed back to October, and crushed when it looked like Colors of Truth wouldn't be published at all. But it came, and Tamera Alexander delivered on all the elements I expected she would.As always, Tamera's characters are well-developed, relatable in their humanity, and in general, spot-on. Catriona O'Toole had my empathy and sympathy from page one, as I could see myself so much in her. Life has handed Catriona one bad turn after another, yet she's so determined not to get knocked down, she can't or won't accept help and kindness when it arrives. *Convicted blushing.* That said, I loved her spitfire attitude, her tireless devotion to Nora, and the way she embraced her new country while keeping Ireland close to her heart. In fact, the Irish element in Colors of Truth won extra points because I so love all things Irish. Finally, an author spent the time on those elements that I feel they deserve.I would normally talk about the hero--in this case, Wade Cunningham--next, and I will get to him. But I have to stop and talk about Nora O'Toole first. She's only seven, but she might be my favorite character, which is no easy feat. I've seen a lot of authors write kid characters well, but Tamera absolutely nailed Nora. She's not at all perfect, but she's not a total brat, either. She's spunky to the point of naughtiness, but her trauma makes you understand exactly why the naughtiness happens, without excusing her behavior. And although Nora can be irascible at times, she has a lovely heart. I saw it in the way she doted on Virginia and the way she threw herself into Wade's affections, while simultaneously struggling with her new role in Catriona's life. The sisterly relationship is written beautifully here as Catriona tries to be Nora's parent. It's heart-wrenching for both sisters, but warm and touching, too.Wade Cunningham definitely grows into his role as hero, especially the hero the O'Toole sisters need. I don't think he's as three-dimensional as he could be; a lot of his motivation gets repeated over and over, and he doesn't seem to grow as much as Catriona does. That said, Wade does have a highly interesting trajectory as a new Secret Service agent. His compassion and tireless championing of freedmen made me root for him. His deep-rooted faith plays well against Catriona's spiritual travails. And while their romance is pretty understated for a Tamera Alexander book, it comes through well. Actually though, Wade's non-romantic interactions kept me the most interested in him, like when he talked with Nora or worked through the counterfeiting case. I don't know if that's a strength or a weakness--maybe both?The spiritual threads were enjoyable also, if again, somewhat weaker than I like. In particular, I cheered to see Catriona discover the truth about how eternal destiny works, after being taught that purgatory was the only viable option for her loved ones, for whatever reason. And again, Wade's faith was a major selling point, often because of the tension he faced. Deception is never right, but when it helps or saves others, how does one handle it? That question, plus Tamera's theme of the lies we are told or tell ourselves, makes for some great discussion fodder.Now, I do want to talk about the setting--a Southern plantation--and the controversy it caused. This book and the Carnton series conclusion were both "cancelled" because "a Southern plantation setting will not be well received." While I understand that concern, I have to say, do not let that put you off. Tamera actually does a wonderful job showing both the evils of slavery and why the triumph of freedom and righteousness are so important. Never are black characters shortchanged; they might be secondary and they might be former slaves, but they are three-dimensional people with needs, wants, and opinions of their own. Tempy is probably the best example because she's in the book the most, but you'll find some other great examples in Isham Pender and even Delphia. I completely disagree with the original publisher's decision to "cancel" these books, because erasing history won't change anything. What will change things are attitudes like Tamera Alexander's. I don't know how she could've been any more respectful of the time period, yet clearer on how humans should be treated regardless of color. Bravo.With all that said, why not give the book five stars? Well, I desperately wanted to. But as I said, there are some weak characterizations and spiritual threads. I'll chalk that up to the stress of what the poor book went through. I also felt that some plot elements came a little out of left field. For instance, there's a scene where Catriona reads Tempy's journal, after noting that she had permission. Okay--when did she get permission? And why hadn't we seen Tempy's journal up to then--or in other scenes except the one? The same is true with the "secret society" thread; Wade finds someone connected to it, says he's going to do his part to stop it--and that's it. Considering what that "society" is, and the impact it has on black people, I wanted more development and more justice there. It seems like Tamera got a little overwhelmed and tried to put too many threads in, which took away from the important ones. For instance, the counterfeiting case is written as important, but it didn't keep me guessing. Although, I did appreciate the twist with Ryan, and I did appreciate that Catriona and Wade were mostly honest with each other throughout, and understood each other's motives, rather than blowing up, breaking up, and moping and doping around.Overall then, Colors of Truth is still a strong, well-written, and dare I say vital book, especially now. You'll enjoy it, but what I like even more is that it will make you think. Read and savor--and support Tamera Alexander as she finishes the Carnton trilogy next year. I for one can't wait to see Nora all grown up!

This must be one of my favourite books. It's a story of grief and hardship, sprinkled liberally with hope, faith and truth. I love the main characters, Catriona and Wade. I love how they deal with life and lies, however well meant!There were several unexpected twists as well, and I love little Nora... I simply have to read the next one, to find out what happens to them all!The book deals beautifully with the aftermath of the war and I feel it's a book needed at this time. Such a blessing to read!

Another great book by this writer! Love this series so far, but then again I love all of her writing! Glad she took matters into her own hands so this book could still be produced in the exact form that she meant it to!! Great job!!

Das Buch ist tiefgründig, spannend und unterhaltsam. Ich habe es im einem Zug gelesen, wie alles von Tamera Alexander.. einfach super!

Mature youth to adult reading. A great flow to the story. Interesting historical fiction which makes learning about real past events so much more compelling.

Ms. Alexander pens a solid tale in the third instalment of her Carnton series. The beginning plods while she sets the stage, but if you persevere there’s a fantastic entourage of personalities to get to know. Her writing reminds me of Eugenia Price’s novels due to methodical pacing, well developed characters and the ability to turn horrifying historical events into a memorable story.Set after the Civil War, the author takes on several heavy hitting topics such as honesty and racism, so don’t expect a lighthearted read. Thankfully there is “a wee” rascal who offers up a welcoming distraction to the seriousness.I will remember this Civil War series near Franklin, Tennessee and recommend for historical fiction fans. Bravo to the author for indie publishing when the traditional publishing house decided to not go ahead.