J. M. Hochstetler

Book 6 of the acclaimed series celebrating 250 years of American independence. With Americas' fierce fight for independence hanging in the balance, Elizabeth Howard and Jonathan Carleton are driven thousands of miles and a vast ocean apart. While the Continental Army endures a desperate winter at Valley Forge, French Admiral le comte de Caledonne secretly sweeps Elizabeth away to France out of reach of British assassins. Meanwhile General Jonathan Carleton, the Shawnee war chief White Eagle, returns to his people as General George Washington's emissary, doubting that he will ever return to the white world. But as the war between America and Britain shifts into the fragile republic's heartland at Monmouth Court House, sinister schemes draw Jonathan and Elizabeth into their own separate maelstroms. Will the Refiner's Fire tear them from each other's arms forever? From the flames of war exploding across land and sea to the dangerous intrigues of the French court and the Shawnee's bitter resistance to the Long Knives, Refiner's Fire continues the breathtaking saga of America's founding in a gripping story of heartbreak, redemption, and the unyielding constancy of love. "Refiner's Fire is not simply a story but an experience. Within its pages are all the upheaval, suspense, heartache, and romance that make the American Patriot Series unforgettable. The author's breadth and scope of our founding history is truly remarkable and each finely tuned character seems lifted from the actual historical record. Extraordinary " -Laura Frantz, Christy-award winning author of The Lacemaker "Painstaking attention to research and detail, vivid setting, peeks into some of the most obscure corners of an otherwise familiar history, all overlaid with a grand, sweeping love story that will break your heart before it takes your breath away . . . this book (and series ) has it all. If you're a fan of historical fiction and romance and haven't yet discovered this author, don't wait another minute to do so " -Shannon McNear, 2014 RITA(R) finalist and author of The Cumberland Bride, #5 of Daughters of the Mayflower "Refiner's Fire is an absolutely thrilling read J. M. Hochstetler once again takes readers deep into the turbulent days of the American Revolution, bringing to life the battles, the spies, and the intrigue that belong solely to our forefathers and their struggle for our burgeoning country. Hochstetler's rich description, strong and unique characters, and impeccable attention to historical detail leaves readers wonderfully satisfied yet longing for more. Fans of historical fiction will adore this newest installment in the American Patriot Series. -Michelle Shocklee, Author of The Widow of Rose Hill "J. M. Hochstetler's in-depth research and masterful writing combine for an exceptional novel, filled with history, intrigue, and romance. Refiner's Fire is an engaging and most satisfying read. As Book 6 in the American Patriot series, Refiner's Fire can be read as a standalone, yet the preceding novels fill in much detail, making Refiner's Fire even more enjoyable. It is rare to read a series with the intensity of historical understanding that you will find within the pages of the American Patriot Series. From every vantage point-the Native Americans, to the British, to the Colonial Americans-the complexity of the political and cultural ramifications brings a greater depth of understanding to the bigger picture than you will find in most historical novels. A series well worth mentally devouring." -Elaine Marie Cooper, author of Love's Kindling

Book 5 of the acclaimed series celebrating 250 years of American independence. Can he save them both from the Valley of the Shadow? Following a humiliating defeat at Philadelphia and a rival's stunning victory at Saratoga, Washington's army faces yet another bitter winter, this time at Valley Forge. Meanwhile, General Jonathan Carleton races to save Elizabeth Howard from the horrors of the prison ships in the British stronghold at New York, while British General William Howe plots to execute them both. From heart-pounding battles on the high seas, to the rigors of Valley Forge and the Shawnee's savagely fought wars to preserve their ancestral lands, Valley of the Shadow continues the thrilling saga of America's founding in an inspiring story of despair, courage, and triumph. "An outstanding series. The American Patriot books are the most complete, complex, and textured retelling of the Revolutionary War I've found in historical fiction. Hochstetler is not only a masterful storyteller, but a genuine historian. These are timeless classics, destined to be read-and relished-more than once." -Jocelyn Green, award-winning author of the Heroines Behind the Lines Civil War Series "Reading J. M. Hochstetler's The American Patriot Series is like watching a thrilling historical television mini-series. With each new season, something new enthralls the reader and keeps her coming back for more. In the long-awaited Book Five, Valley of the Shadow, Hochstetler maintains her gripping action, suspense, and star-crossed romance. Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this latest installment in a very fine, meticulously researched American Revolution series." -Louise M. Gouge, author of Then Came Love "In Valley of the Shadow, master wordsmith J. M. Hochstetler has woven together an enthralling page turner brimming with authentic history, thrilling suspense, breathtaking description, and memorable characters. The love letters written between Jonathan and Elizabeth are among the most beautiful and emotive I've ever read. The golden thread running throughout this intricate tapestry depicts a loving God who will bring about the best for those who love and trust Him no matter the circumstances. I eagerly await Book Six in this amazing series, The American Patriot." -Susan F. Craft, SIBA award-winning author of The Chamomile and Laurel "This series about the American Revolution should be in every high school and library in the U. S. and Canada. It brings history alive with complete accuracy." -Bonnie Toews, author of The Consummate Traitor and Treason and Triumph "I adore the way you portray the emotions of your characters while keeping the historical aspect pure. I love the delicate balance of the romance, and how you managed to keep the tension going without it driving the reader (me) over the edge. This is really a powerful book and I can hardly wait to read the next installment." -Patricia Riddle Gaddis, author of Battered but not Broken and Dangerous Dating

Winner of ForeWord Review's 2014 Indie Book of the Year Bronze Award for historical fiction. Drawn into the savage clashes of the French and Indian War, Jakob Hochstetler faces an impossible choice-and the irreversible consequences. In 1738 Jakob Hochstetler and his family arrived in America, seeking sanctuary from religious persecution in Europe and the freedom to live and worship according to their Anabaptist beliefs. Along with other members of their church, they settled in the Northkill Amish Mennonite community on the Pennsylvania frontier between civilization and wilderness and built a home near Northkill Creek. For eighteen years the community lived at peace. Then, with the French and Indian War raging, the Hochstetlers' way of life was brutally shattered. Early on the morning of September 20, 1757, their home was attacked by a party of Delaware and Shawnee warriors allied with the French. Facing certain death with his wife and children, Jakob made a wrenching choice that tore apart his family and changed all of their lives forever. Northkill is closely based on an inspiring true story well-known among the Amish and Mennonites. It has been documented in many publications and in contemporary accounts preserved in the Pennsylvania State Archives and in private collections.

Christian Small Publishers 2009 Book of the Year. It's 1967, and the Vietnam War is tearing the country apart, slicing through generations and shattering families. Because of Japanese atrocities he witnessed as a Marine in the South Pacific during WWII, Frank McRae despises all Asians. Now his son, Mike, is a grunt in Viet Nam, and his wife, Maggie, is fighting her own battle against cancer. When Mike falls in love with Thi Nhuong, a young Buddhist woman, and marries her in spite of his father's objections, Frank disowns him. Then, as Christmas approaches, Frank's world is torn apart, and he turns bitter, closing his heart to God and to his family. But what Frank doesn't know is that on this bleak Christmas Eve, God has in mind a miracle. As on that holy night so long ago, a baby will be born and laid in a manger-a baby who will bring forgiveness, peace, and healing to a family that has suffered heart-wrenching loss." J. M. Hochstetler dug deep into the well of emotions and came up with a story that strikes the heartstrings in a tender and yet also provocative manner. The characters are so well drawn, they've stayed in my mind long after reading the book, almost as if they were real people that I've known for a long time. Being the daughter of a Vietnam Vet, I also appreciated Hochstetler's gentle handling of one of the most tumultuous times in our country's history. And even though it's set during the Vietnam era, there are lessons to be learned and truths to be taken away from this beautifully crafted story for today. Highly recommended." -Kaye Dacus, author of Follow the Heart "Amazingly, Hochstetler tackles several big issues--love, loyalty, war and death--while maintaining a positive thesis. Family can survive. Human love is grander in weakness than in strength. And faith is, by necessity, stronger in tragedy than in triumph. One Holy Night is a soon-to-be-classic miracle story with an inspirational message that will warm your heart with love. It is a wonderful statement of faith and a gift of hope. -Kathy Harris, author of The Road to Mercy "Within its pages you will discover the most beautiful modern-day essence of Christ's nativity, mercy, and grace you've read in a very long while As the story unfolds its final scenes, the reader is left with renewed hope in God's sovereign design for each of our lives and His miraculous ability to bring good out of even the darkest circumstances." -Kim Ford, Window to My World Blog

Book 3 of the acclaimed series celebrating 250 years of American independence. Elizabeth Howard's assignment to gain crucial intelligence for General Washington leads her into the very maw of war at the Battle of Brooklyn Heights, where disaster threatens to end the American rebellion. Yet her heart is fixed on Jonathan Carleton, whose whereabouts remain unknown more than a year after he disappeared into the wilderness. Carleton, now the Shawnee war chief White Eagle, is caught in a bitter war of his own. As unseen forces gather to destroy him, he leads the fight against white settlers encroaching on Shawnee lands while battling the longing for Elizabeth that will not give him peace. Can her love bridge the miles that separate them-and the savage bonds that threaten to tear him forever from her arms? "With rich, vivid descriptions that draw you back in time, characters that become your best friends, eloquent language that will leave you breathless, and a romance that warms you from head to toe, Wind of the Spirit is a stunningly beautiful story about the fight for freedom, survival, and love in a savage land." -MaryLu Tyndall, bestselling author of Surrender the Dawn "The passion and intrigue of the American Revolution comes to life in J. M. Hochstetler's wonderfully entertaining read Wind of the Spirit. Beautifully written and completely engaging, Wind of the Spirit will appeal to fans not just of Christian fiction, but of historical fiction as well. Not to be missed " -Michelle Moran, author of Madame Tussaud: A Novel of the French Revolution "J. M. Hochstetler is able to bring history to life with her exceptional prose and attention to detail. If you want a Last of the Mohicans type adventure with a hearty dose of romance and realism, buy these books My only regret is that she doesn't write fast enough and there aren't enough books like hers Wonderful, inspiring, educational reading Bless you, J. M. I use your books for my own research " -Laura Frantz, bestselling author of The Colonel's Lady "A captivating tale of love and courage skillfully woven into the Revolutionary War, revealing all the human passions and valor that made America great." -Louise M. Gouge, author of At the Captain's Command "I love this series written by J. M. Hochstetler. I have been waiting eagerly for the next installment. I'd be thrilled if she'd write ten books in this engaging style set in the American Revolution. A story so fun and fast paced, with the back ground of Hochstetler's beautifully researched look at this formative time in our country's history. Keep them coming." -Mary Connealy, author of Out of Control "Wind of the Spirit by J. M. Hochstetler is a captivating third installment to the American Patriot series, one that will keep you turning pages and reading far into the night. Filled with intrigue and adventure, love and loss, history and hope, Wind of the Spirit is a refreshingly honest expose of American truth, sparing neither the good, the bad, or the ugly. Raw truth, coupled with gentle mercy, will carry your heart from one scene to the next, leaving you cheering for the "good guys" (on all sides), and panting for more . . . " -Kathi Macias, author of Deliver Me from Evil

Book 4 of the acclaimed series celebrating 250 years of American independence. Returning from the Shawnee, Brigadier General Jonathan Carleton rejoins General George Washington's army to find the patriot cause on the verge of extinction. Meanwhile Elizabeth Howard travels back to New York, where she is drawn ever deeper into the intrigues that swirl around British General William Howe. From the desperate battles of Trenton, Princeton, and Brandywine Creek to the crucial confrontation at Saratoga, Elizabeth and Carleton face a crucible of war that tests their mettle, faith, and love to the very limits-and beyond. "Historic. Romantic. Riveting. Rich and multi-layered, Crucible of War is the epic continuation of an unforgettable series. Joan Hochstetler gives us a rare glimpse into America's past, leaving the reader enriched and wanting more. I highly recommend this amazing book and series " -Laura Frantz, author of The Colonel's Lady and Love's Reckoning "J. M. Hochstetler weaves a tapestry rich in detail, a riveting story of adventure and intrigue in a time when men and women made choices that wrenched the heart, but honored God. An engaging new chapter in the on-going saga of how an enduring nation-and an equally enduring romance-were forged in the Crucible of War." -Lori Benton, author of Burning Sky "We have given this series to all of our family so that they will understand the foundation of this country and the freedoms they enjoy. If you haven't read it yet, you should. You will relive the sacrifices, romances, and pain experienced by past patriots. You will understand what you have benefited from when you experience this trip through history as written by Joan. It is historically accurate fiction, and a very engaging and interesting read. I can't wait for the next book to come out " -John E. Anderson, SGM Ret., U. S. Army Intelligence & Communications Command "I did not think J. M. Hochstetler could keep her readers riveted through seven books in her American Patriot Series, but she is doing it with such stunning storytelling that her characters are becoming bigger than life, just as Margaret Mitchell achieved with Scarlet O'Hara and Rhett Butler in Gone with the Wind. Today's military wives can relate to Elizabeth and Jonathan's longing to be together and despair at parting. Here is an opportunity for Americans to become reacquainted with their nation's agonizing birth and the stout-hearted people who made it possible. J. M. Hochstetler has captured this period magnificently. Her battle scenes rage, her love trysts wrench your heart. And her writing achieves literary pinnacles." -Bonnie Toews, author ofThe Consummate Traitor and Communications Command

Brigadier General Jonathan Carleton has pledged his allegiance to the cause of liberty, his service to General George Washington, and his heart to fiery Elizabeth Howard. But when Washington takes command of the American forces, he orders Carleton to undertake a perilous journey deep into Indian country and persuades Elizabeth to continue her work as a spy. Captured and enslaved by the Seneca, Carleton is stripped of everything but his faith in God. At last rescued by the Shawnee, he is taken into deep Ohio Territory and adopted as the warrior White Eagle. When he rises to become war chief, he is drawn unwillingly into a bitter war against the white settlers who threaten to overrun the Shawnee's ancestral lands. Meanwhile, as General William Howe gathers his forces to attack the outmatched Continental Army in New York City, Elizabeth despairs of ever learning Carleton's fate. But as the western frontier explodes into flame, the name of White Eagle begins to spread beyond the borders of Ohio Territory. "J. M. Hochstetler is able to bring history to life with her exceptional prose and attention to detail. If you want a Last of the Mohicans-type adventure with a hearty dose of romance and realism, buy these books My only regret is that she doesn't write fast enough and there aren't enough books like hers Wonderful, inspiring, educational reading " -Laura Frantz, author of The Colonel's Lady "Native Son picks up where Daughter of Liberty left off and doesn't let go of the reader even beyond the last word on the last page. Ms. Hochstetler has crafted a story full of intrigue, romance, and heart-racing action, all woven around the most accurately portrayed historical events and settings this reader has ever seen. Her characters-main and secondary-come alive on the page and stay with the reader long after the book is over. The spiritual conflict is both touching and challenging. Hochstetler is a skilled author whose style engages and allows the reader to get lost in 1775 . . . I can't wait to read the next installment." -Kaye Dacus, author of The Ransome Trilogy "Hochstetler introduced me to a fascinating aspect of the revolution here and I'd say more except I don't want to give away too much of the first book. I highly recommend you read the series in order. I loved the glimpse into the lives of George Washington as he built his guerrilla forces into a fighting army, and the names and actions of the factual British generals, intermixed with the fictionalized daring of our heroes. Fiction like this is a great, fun way to teach history." -Mary Connealy, author of Out of Control "It is a heartbreaking, thrilling, and gut-wrenching journey on these pages filled with rich historical detail that will be visualized with clarity in readers' minds. I am so anxious to pick up Book Three in this series, as my own heart wants resolution for this couple. A definite "Must-Read" for lovers of American History-as well as for lovers."-Elaine Marie Cooper, author of The Promise of Dear Run "Heartbreaking and brutal at times, Carleton's journey in particular resonated with me. His battle to retain faith in the midst of personal, political, physical, and total upheaval left an impression as few other stories have-challenging my own conventions, foundations, and moral bedrock. As the first in the series, Daughter of Liberty, was, this is a wealth of research and regional history. From the southwestern New York border where much of the book was set, I recognized and appreciated the veracity and intimacy of her details in native custom, flora, fauna, and people. Almost Michener-esque in scope, this is a historical fiction piece worthy of note." -Kathleen L. Maher, author of Bachelor Buttons, A Civil War Romance

Book 1 of the acclaimed series celebrating 250 years of American independence. 2024 AMERICAN LEGACY BOOK AWARDS FINALIST The thrilling saga of a nation's founding begins... Eastertide, April 1775. In the blockaded port of Boston the conflict between the British Regulars and the Sons of Liberty rapidly escalates toward a fateful confrontation. Caught in the deepening rift that divides Whig and Tory, Elizabeth Howard is torn between her love for her prominent parents, who have strong ties to the British establishment, and her secret adherence to the cause of liberty. By night she plays a dangerous game as the infamous courier Oriole, hunted by the British for smuggling intelligence and munitions to the patriot leaders. And by day she treads increasingly perilous ground as she flirts ever more boldly with British officers close to her parents to gain access to information the rebels desperately need. Elizabeth's assignment is to pin down the exact time the Redcoats will march to capture the patriots' hoarded munitions. But she hasn't counted on the arrival of Jonathan Carleton, an officer in the Seventeenth Light Dragoons. To her dismay, the attraction between them is immediate, powerful--and fought on both sides in a war of wits and words. When Carleton wins the assignment to ferret out Oriole, Elizabeth can no longer deny that he is her most dangerous foe--and the possessor of her heart. As the first blood is spilled at Lexington and Concord, Carleton fights his own private battle of faith. Meanwhile, headstrong Elizabeth must learn to follow God's leading as her dangerous role thrusts her ever closer to the carnage of Bunker Hill. "This is an exceptional book. I read the last 150 pages in one sitting. Heart racing, tears falling, I suffered the anguish and indecision that Elizabeth and Jonathan experienced. Hochstetler has created a magnificent, well-crafted story that will endure with the classics because she did not fall into the weak folly of so many modern writers--that of forcing today's values and ideas into a time in which they did not exist. To read Daughter of Liberty is to live in 1775 and to experience the spirit that made our country great. Read this book for pleasure, but don't be surprised when you receive an awesome history lesson that brings you an appreciation of the United States of America in a deep, new way." -Louise M. Gouge, author of Love Thine Enemy" J. M. Hochstetler tells the story of Daughter of Liberty in a style I love. She takes fictional characters and sets them at critical moments in history to describe events through their eyes. Daughter of Liberty sets Elizabeth and Jonathan into the middle of the battles of Lexington, Concord, and Bunker Hill. I now know more about those first battles of the American Revolution than I ever learned in history class. I've long believed that history in school should be taught through fiction. Instead, history is taught with the dry textbook style of memorizing dates, places, and names--something guaranteed to suck all the fun out of it. Great historical moments are always fraught with tension, life and death, heroism, sacrifice and passion. A novel can catch all of the natural drama while still delivering the facts. Daughter of Liberty is the first in a series of novels by Hochstetler about the Revolution. I can't wait for more." -Mary Connealy, author of the Montana Brides series "Daughter of Liberty is the best historical novel I've read since I can't remember when. Real people and events are woven seamlessly into the story. The real events of 1775 Boston are integral to the plot and the actions of the characters, yet these details are so much a part of the characters' everyday life and goals that they don't stick out. It's the kind of historical novel I love to read and find too few to read. That it is Christian fiction makes it all that much better." -Laurie Alice Eakes, author of Better T