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Tamera Alexander
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Colors of Truth Kindle Edition

by Tamera Alexander (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 1,401 ratings
See all formats and editions
In a town battered and bruised by war, one woman embarks upon an impossible search—and one man must face the past in the very place that almost destroyed him.

Tennessee, 1866. According to the last letter Irish immigrant Catriona O'Toole received from her twin brother, Ryan, he was being dispatched to Franklin, Tennessee, where—as a conscripted Confederate soldier—he likely endured the bloody Battle of Franklin that claimed the lives of thousands.

Catriona leaves behind the lush green of their Irish homeland in search of him, with nothing to her name except the sum of cash Ryan sent to their family. Now the sole provider for her seven-year-old spitfire sister, Nora, Catriona hopes to reunite the siblings—the only surviving members of their devastated family.

Wade Cunningham is a former Federal soldier who now works for the newly formed United States Secret Service and is trying to uncover counterfeiting rings in the postwar South. In order to infiltrate their sophisticated enterprise, he must pose as a former Confederate in Franklin—a town where counterfeit greenbacks run rampant.

When Wade meets Catriona, he is immediately intrigued by her and the little redheaded scamp in her care—but what he doesn't anticipate is that the cash in Catriona's possession is some of the most convincing counterfeit money he's ever seen. Soon the object of Wade's affection is also the suspect in a major crime—one he's expected to prosecute.

With rich historical detail and multifaceted prose, USA TODAY bestselling author Tamera Alexander tells a riveting tale of truth, betrayal, and unlikely romance that unveils the many shades of God's perfect redemption.

*2021 Readers' Choice Award Winner



"I was stunned when the publisher backed out of releasing this book. What a terrible decision... There are some who can't handle the truth, and what a loss!"
~ Kindle Customer (5 stars)


"Kudos for standing firm when opposition came, Tamera!"
~ Deanna Ammirato (Amazon reader, 5 stars)

The Carnton novels are standalone novels, meaning they are part of a series but can be enjoyed individually.

Christmas at Carnton, a novella
With This Pledge, book 1
Colors of Truth, book 2
Book 3 Coming December 2021
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  1. Book 2 of 2
    The Carnton
  2. Print length
    522 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Sticky notes
    On Kindle Scribe
  5. Publication date
    September 30, 2020
  6. File size
    4267 KB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
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Total Price: $21.98
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From the Publisher

Two sisters from Ireland searching for their brother...
Have no idea what truth awaits them at Carnton in Franklin, Tennessee.
Meet USA Today bestselling author Tamera Alexander

Editorial Reviews

Review


"This book was so well written that I could hardly put it down. This book is a timely story..."
~ Dana from Goodreads (5 stars)

"Tamera Alexander has done it again! With her thorough research combined with phenomenal storytelling skills, she was woven a story full of history, romance, and intrigue... You won't want to miss this book!"
~ Anita from NetGalley (5 stars)

"Tamera Alexander has written a masterpiece. Her heart is in this book. I very highly recommend."
~ Susan Snodgrass from Goodreads (5 stars)

"The sign of a good book is closing the final page and feeling like you've lived and breathed through the characters within. Colors of Truth is one of those books. This book was more than I expected."
~ Courtney | Soul of a Librarian (4 stars)

"Another excellent historical romance from Tamera Alexander!"
Erin Laramore from Goodreads (5 stars)

"If you are a fan of historical fiction, especially Civil War era fiction, you will love Colors of Truth."
~ Michelle Kidwell from Goodreads (5 stars)

"This is a beautiful story set in the South after the Civil War. Tamera does a wonderful job with her depth of characters and weaving an intriguing story. Highly recommended."
~ Denise from Goodreads (5 stars)

"I loved how the secrets between [the characters] were handled. I wish I could say more...but [no] spoilers! The spiritual message about trust was very powerful and the end was action packed and riveting and perfect."
~ Monique from Goodreads (4 stars)

"This book kept my interest from the stirring beginning to the teary-eyed,satisfying end. Even though it is the second book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone, and I highly recommend it as a must-read!"
~ Carolyn Bryant from Goodreads (5 stars)

"I think what I love about this author's books is that she always puts truth in her novels and yes even history lessons too! I especially loved and didn't know about the counterfeit money that circled after the Civil War. I highly recommend this book!"
~ Lori from Goodreads (5 stars)

"Time and again, I am delighted by Alexander's stunning ability to mold fact and fiction. Her books are ones I read over and over again,continually in love with every character and setting."
~ Kathryn Voss from Goodreads (5 stars)

"A compelling page turner and the best of historical fiction."
~ Maureen Timerman (5 stars)

From the Author

I love a love story. Even better, I love a love story steeped in real history, which aptly describes the novel Colors of Truth.

The journey in Colors of Truth is drawn heavily from the pages of American history and from the lives of the real people who lived and worked at Carnton in Franklin, Tennessee, in the nineteenth century. If you've not visited Carnton--or if it's been a while--I'd be honored to take you on a quick tour! Join me at TameraAlexander.com/extras/videos, and I'll happily show you the home and grounds and share the significance of this estate in American history.

The years following the Civil War were rife with chaos, heartache, and struggle, yet they also showcase the incredible strength and resiliency of the human spirit--and of how God intervenes during such times in amazing ways. To glorify himself, as he alone is worthy, but also to lift up the brokenhearted in a nation on the brink of bankruptcy. In more ways than one.

On April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln signed a piece of legislation authorizing a government agency that would one day be responsible for protecting the president of the United States. But Lincoln's authorization of the United States Secret Service empowered ten men--ten special operatives--to track down counterfeiters and bring them to justice. The legislation for the United States Secret Service was the last official act of President Lincoln before he left for a showing of Our American Cousin at Ford's Theatre in Washington, DC.

I'd love to hear from you once you've read Wade and Catriona's story. You can write me via my website at TameraAlexander.com.

Thank you for entrusting your time to me. It's a gift I treasure and never take for granted.

Every blessing,
Tamera

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08HM93TLD
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Fountain Creek Press (September 30, 2020)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 30, 2020
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 4267 KB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 522 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 1,401 ratings

About the author

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Tamera Alexander

Tamera Alexander

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USA Today bestselling author Tamera Alexander is one of today's most popular writers of inspirational historical romance. Her novels continue to garner reader loyalty around the world, with her latest, Colors of Truth, hitting both the US Amazon and the Netherlands bestsellers lists right out of the gate. A Million Little Choices, her highly-anticipated dual timeline NOV 2023 release, is already drawing industry acclaim.

Her novels have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Library Journal and regularly appear on best-seller lists—including ECPA Bestsellers, CBA Bestsellers, and #1 Amazon Bestsellers in Historical Christian Fiction.

Tamera was inducted into the Christy Award Hall of Fame in 2020, which is the highest honor awarded Christian fiction. She's a two-time recipient of the coveted Carol Award bestowed by American Christian Fiction Writers, and is also a two-time winner (six-time finalist) of the RITA Award.

Tamera lives in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband Joe and two lovable but rambunctious Australian Terriers, not far from the Southern mansions that serve as the backdrop for many of her critically-acclaimed novels.

Her books have been translated into multiple languages including Dutch, German, Polish, Romanian, Slovakian, Portuguese and more. For more about Tamera's books, visit www.TameraAlexander.com

To say thank you to her readers, she holds an exclusive giveaway each month on her website (https://tameraalexander.com/extras/giveaway).

(Photo credit: Mandy Whitley Photography)

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7 out of 5
1,401 global ratings
Tremendous!
5 Stars
Tremendous!
As hard as it is to face the truth, it's even harder to live with a lie.'In 1866 Franklin, Tennessee, Catriona O'Toole arrives with her little sister Nora to search for their brother Ryan. His last letter to Catriona said he was conscripted as a Confederate soldier. He also sent a large amount of money for their family to make a life in the US. When Catriona arrives, she learns of the horrific battle of Franklin and fears the worst. She has to find a way to make a new life now.Wade Cunningham, former Federal officer and now a member of the newly formed Secret Service returns to Franklin to uncover counterfeiting rings in the South, which is very prevalent. He has to pose as a Confederate, an abhorrent act to him. Then he discovers that the cash Catriona carries is some of the best forgery he has ever seen.'No matter the debate among his own countrymen, he could not and would not, abide living in a nation where fellow human beings were bought and sold like cattle.'Book two in Tamera Alexander's Carton novels is a most wonderful addition to this series. These Carnton novels are so moving, totally grabbing my heart with the intensity of the words she has set forth on these pages. Gripping is a good word to use to describe this book. Alexander's research is impeccable and she brings this history to life in her readers' minds. Absolutely compelling, this book held me captive till the last page. And I shed many tears during the reading of it.Much of the history in this book is not easy to read, but Alexander handles it in such a respectful way that it brings honor to that grievous time in our nation's history. And I highly recommend her website for even more information about Carnton and the events that took place there in November of 1865 during the battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. It is absolutely fascinating and heartrending at the same time. Tamera Alexander has written a masterpiece. Her heart is in this book. I very highly recommend.*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Top reviews from the United States

Pamela F
5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best post Civil War Novels to date
Reviewed in the United States on April 13, 2021
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Tamera Alexander once again brings history alive with her post Civil War novel based at Carnton Plantation in Franklin, TN. The story follows Catriona O’Toole and her younger sister Nora as they search for their brother Ryan who fought for the Confederate army in the Battle of Franklin near Carnton Plantation. As Catriona is searching for her brother she meets Wade Cunningham, an operative for the United States Secret Service. He is in Franklin trying to track down counterfeiters. As he is investigating the citizens of Franklin, Wade is also working for John McGavock the owner of Carnton.

Catriona was independent and determined, and I loved her dedication to protecting her sister at all costs. Wade was simply dashing and romantic, and I loved his character from the very beginning. I also enjoyed the chemistry between Catriona and Wade. It was also wonderful seeing the relationship with Tempy, Catriona and Nora develop.

I always get a history lesson whenever I read one of Alexander's novels. This holds true with Colors of Truth. Her details of how the Confederate soldiers were buried after the Battle of Franklin and the accurate detail of the blood stained floors of the Carnton plantation really brought history to life. I loved the way the author handled this difficult and tragic time in our history with dignity and facts. In conclusion, Colors of Truth was another excellent read by Tamera Alexander and I look forward to her next book in this wonderful series.
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Lynn A Sanders
5.0 out of 5 stars FASCINATING POST CIVIL WAR STORY
Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2023
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Historical novel of post Civil War life on a plantation. Such a difficult time of transition. Excellent character development and handling of truth.
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Y_Smi0126
5.0 out of 5 stars Interwoven lives
Reviewed in the United States on September 9, 2023
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Expertly written book interwoven with people of all walks of life. It led me to research more into the history of America's civil war and the famine in Ireland .

The desperation, love and perseverance is written into every page.
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Stephanie McCall
4.0 out of 5 stars A Beautiful, Important Book that Begs to Be Read
Reviewed in the United States on October 17, 2020
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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!
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Jeanne C
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful & riveting story!
Reviewed in the United States on October 15, 2020
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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!
14 people found this helpful
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Connie johnson
5.0 out of 5 stars One of my favorite historical romance.
Reviewed in the United States on April 4, 2024
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It isn't gone either the wind, but almost. It kept me reading in the wee hours of the night. If you don't read anything this week, please read this one.
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Moving and hope-giving
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 16, 2023
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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!
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Janneke
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent!
Reviewed in Canada on October 10, 2020
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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!!
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Kindle-Kunde
5.0 out of 5 stars einfach super!
Reviewed in Germany on October 10, 2020
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Das Buch ist tiefgründig, spannend und unterhaltsam. Ich habe es im einem Zug gelesen, wie alles von Tamera Alexander.. einfach super!
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Charles
5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating story and hard to put down!
Reviewed in Canada on February 6, 2021
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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.
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Glenda Fowlow
4.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Characters
Reviewed in Canada on October 12, 2020
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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.
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