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A Cord of Three Strands
As 1756 dawns, Isaac Lukens leaves the Pennsylvania wilderness after two years with the Lenape people. He’s failed to find the families of his birth parents, a French trader and a Lenape woman. Worse, the tribe he’s lived with, having rejected his peacemaking efforts, now ravages frontier settlements in retaliation. When he arrives in the Quaker community where he was reared, questions taunt him: Who is he—white man or Lenape? And where does he belong?
Elisabeth Alden, Isaac’s dearest childhood friend, is left to tend her young siblings alone upon her father’s death. Despite Isaac’s promise to care for her and the children, she battles resentment toward him for having left, while an unspeakable tragedy and her discordant courtship with a prominent Philadelphian weigh on her as well.
Elisabeth must marry or lose guardianship of her siblings, and her options threaten the life with her and the children that Isaac has come to love. Faced with Elisabeth’s hesitancy to marry, the prospect of finding his family at last, and the opportunity to assist in the peace process between Pennsylvania and its Indian tribes, Isaac must determine where—and to whom—the Almighty has called him.
Elisabeth Alden, Isaac’s dearest childhood friend, is left to tend her young siblings alone upon her father’s death. Despite Isaac’s promise to care for her and the children, she battles resentment toward him for having left, while an unspeakable tragedy and her discordant courtship with a prominent Philadelphian weigh on her as well.
Elisabeth must marry or lose guardianship of her siblings, and her options threaten the life with her and the children that Isaac has come to love. Faced with Elisabeth’s hesitancy to marry, the prospect of finding his family at last, and the opportunity to assist in the peace process between Pennsylvania and its Indian tribes, Isaac must determine where—and to whom—the Almighty has called him.
444 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2020
About the author
Christy Distler
17 books22 followersFor as long as she can remember, Christy Distler has dreamed her most vivid dreams with her eyes wide open. Names became people—people who didn’t exist in this time and place but couldn’t have been more real in her heart and mind. So she did the only rational thing: gave them a voice by writing fiction.
Christy’s novels, whether historical or contemporary, delve into betrayal and reconciliation, faith and grace, and always involve the intertwining of cultures. When not writing, she works as an editor for publishing houses and independent authors.
Obsession with words aside, she's also a wife and the mom of kids and dogs. She considers dark chocolate a food group (level on the pyramid all depends on the day). She loves to laugh. And she's thankful. When not reading, writing, editing, or involved with family and church activities, she can be found trolling yard sales and thrift stores. She lives in the same Pennsylvania town where she grew up.
Christy’s novels, whether historical or contemporary, delve into betrayal and reconciliation, faith and grace, and always involve the intertwining of cultures. When not writing, she works as an editor for publishing houses and independent authors.
Obsession with words aside, she's also a wife and the mom of kids and dogs. She considers dark chocolate a food group (level on the pyramid all depends on the day). She loves to laugh. And she's thankful. When not reading, writing, editing, or involved with family and church activities, she can be found trolling yard sales and thrift stores. She lives in the same Pennsylvania town where she grew up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 28, 2020
It took me a long time to read A Cord of Three Strands (five days is a lot to me, especially when I'm used to reading at least a book a day), but the book is not to blame, rest assured.
I will absolutely pick up any book set during the French-Indian War because it's my favourite time period to read about. This one was a little different but no less enjoyable.
The language used surprised me at first, but after a few chapters I got the hang of it. I love how hard the author worked to make this sound authentic.
What I was not ready for, however, was how many times this book was going to make me cry. Ruthie and Samson were the first time, after that I didn't even try to stop myself. The descriptions of emotional events are easy to understand but extremely effective.
The scenery changes but most of the book happens in one location. That didn't bother me too much because it was the best location.
I wanted to smack Hiram from the first time we saw him. The man had bad vibes all around.
Meanwhile Isaac and Elisabeth were almost too slow burn. Isaac's quest to find his family was needed but I hated when he was away from Elisabeth. If they only realised they loved each other earlier...
The children were the cutest of all. Often when authors write children it feels as if they've never been children themselves (oops sorry) but Christy Distler made them very realistic.
Now the best part of this book was the wisdom and how devoted they all were to God. The Judas line was extremely powerful and it's my favourite. Well done.
I appreciate all the research that went into this and I'm looking forward to checking out the sources further.
The author's personal story is a very sweet addition to the ending, shame about Seneca, but it's true, the imagination is what matters.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I will absolutely pick up any book set during the French-Indian War because it's my favourite time period to read about. This one was a little different but no less enjoyable.
The language used surprised me at first, but after a few chapters I got the hang of it. I love how hard the author worked to make this sound authentic.
What I was not ready for, however, was how many times this book was going to make me cry. Ruthie and Samson were the first time, after that I didn't even try to stop myself. The descriptions of emotional events are easy to understand but extremely effective.
The scenery changes but most of the book happens in one location. That didn't bother me too much because it was the best location.
I wanted to smack Hiram from the first time we saw him. The man had bad vibes all around.
Meanwhile Isaac and Elisabeth were almost too slow burn. Isaac's quest to find his family was needed but I hated when he was away from Elisabeth. If they only realised they loved each other earlier...
The children were the cutest of all. Often when authors write children it feels as if they've never been children themselves (oops sorry) but Christy Distler made them very realistic.
Now the best part of this book was the wisdom and how devoted they all were to God. The Judas line was extremely powerful and it's my favourite. Well done.
I appreciate all the research that went into this and I'm looking forward to checking out the sources further.
The author's personal story is a very sweet addition to the ending, shame about Seneca, but it's true, the imagination is what matters.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
July 20, 2022
A historical fiction around the 1700’s about a Quaker’s community. They will be tried in many difficulties. Friendships will be questioned and only someone who knows the Lord will be able to face the coming days.
Thanks BooksGoSocial via NetGalley
Thanks BooksGoSocial via NetGalley
June 11, 2021
It's the mid 1700's in Pennsylvania. Isaac Lukens, an adopted bi-racial child of French and Lanape Indian heritage, and Elisabeth, a neighbor, both of whom are Quaker have become the best of friends. It is now 1756 and Isaac has been gone for almost 2 years searching for relatives of his deceased parents. Elisabeth has been through a broken engagement and heartbreaking times. Now Isaac has returned and Elisabeth is caring for the 3 siblings after the loss of both her parents. Both are now looking ahead to what the future might hold.
This was a very interesting look in to the Quaker life and culture during that time period. I enjoyed how Distler kept the dialogue to the Quaker style of that period with the thees and thous. Her glossary at the front of the book was also very helpful as it explained Quaker terms with which I was not at all familiar.
The storyline was heartwarming as both Isaac and Elisabeth found their way through numerous events and pitfalls to their HEA. I appreciated that Distler kept the real life events and Quaker beliefs forefront with the romance as a side theme. Definitely an enjoyable read from this new-to-me author.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
This was a very interesting look in to the Quaker life and culture during that time period. I enjoyed how Distler kept the dialogue to the Quaker style of that period with the thees and thous. Her glossary at the front of the book was also very helpful as it explained Quaker terms with which I was not at all familiar.
The storyline was heartwarming as both Isaac and Elisabeth found their way through numerous events and pitfalls to their HEA. I appreciated that Distler kept the real life events and Quaker beliefs forefront with the romance as a side theme. Definitely an enjoyable read from this new-to-me author.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
August 30, 2022
Stories set in Colonial America are few and far between anymore, and books featuring Quakers are even rarer. If you enjoy either or both, you'll need to read this book! The author immerses readers into the time and culture while weaving a story with a strong faith element (they are - after all - Quakers) that illustrates the importance of family. I'm not a big fan of first-person point of view, but Distler writes it so well that I barely noticed it. I was involved with the characters from the start and intrigued by their Quaker standards and adherence to them. The romance was gentle and sweet, in line with their beliefs, the setting very authentic, and the secondary characters rounded the story out very well. Good read!
September 21, 2020
This is Christian historical fiction at its best: good prose, three-dimensional characters, well-researched, and thoroughly Christian. The characters actually read the Scriptures and pray before making decisions. And yet, they are flawed, human, and the reader can identify with their struggles. Recommended!
December 13, 2020
A well-written book with expert use of language, true to the time and people. Definitely a recommended book for Christian book club gatherings, or personal reading with a cup of coffee in hand. If there was anything I would change, however, it would be the ending, which seemed slightly rushed, but the last chapter was sweet, if anything,
December 23, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It takes place in 1744 in Pennsylvania, and it is about a young lady named Elisabetg and her dearest friend in all the world, Isaac who was half white and half Lenape Indian. Both were from Quaker families, and were considered "Friends", as they both gave their lives to Christ and embraced the Quaker lifestyle. They lived very close to each other growing up, and when Elisabeth was 6 and Isaac was 8, Elisabeth decided they would be friends forever, so she took a strand of Isaac's hair, a strand of her own hair, and a red cord to represent Jesus, and braided them together as she remembered from their worship service. Here's the quote she shared with Isaac when he questioned her doing this :" “This cord will always remind us that no matter what happens, because we have each other and Jesus, we will not easily be broken.”
Isaac's mother was a Lenape indian, and his father was French, but when Isaac was two they passed away at a Quaker care facility, and the young Quaker mother who nursed his parents took Isaac into their family, and he became her son. Later, Isaac feels the call to find out more about his family and leaves the Friends community for a few years. He feels he is called by God to be a peacekeeper between the Indians and the white settlers as there is much turmoil between the two groups. Isaac comes to point where that work is done, so he feels as if he should go home, back to the Friends community and back to Elisabeth.
Elizabeth, now 19, has grown up since Isaac left, and finds herself raising three of her siblings, and in a very hard position. She loves being a part of the Friends community, but tragedy strikes her hard, and she needs help to keep her and her siblings safe, especially with the rumors of Indian raids, sickness, slavery, and every day struggles that settlers faced during that time. As a Friend, she has strong moral standards, and tries very hard to show the light of Christ through the love and care of people, hence she has learned midwifery, and even helps deliver a runaway slave's baby. But she doesn't see the color of her skin, only a mother to be! Now she is faced with caring for her siblings, but can a single, unmarried young woman handle such a task? Will the community allow that? She struggles with her options, but wants so badly to keep her siblings together!
Elisabeth and Isaac will be reunited, but will find life very different from when they were children. This book is their story of when they are reunited, and through struggle, hardship and turmoil, they try to keep that friendship intact, but so much is against them. The Friends community does not leave them to flounder by themselves, but sometimes they may had to make hard decisions depending on what was best for all involved. I won't give any spoilers, but this book is seriously worth the time to find out how Elisabeth and Isaac weather these stormy waters, and if their friendship can also weather it, or will it be torn apart forever?
I love historical fiction and this book was a joy to read! It taught me a lot about the Friends community, their love of Christ and how they desire to show it to others, no matter their race, religion, or lack ok it! I learned about the struggles between the Indians and the settlers, as the author shared both sides! Family is the most important, and I see that Elisabeth and Isaac, and their relationship with the children. Life was hard back then, but love made it bearable! The biggest takeaway for me was the truth of how a three-fold cord is not easily broken, especially with Christ as the third strand. It made me so glad that He is the third strand in all my relationships as He was in Elisabeth & Isaac's relationship! I really enjoyed this book, and would highly recommend it.
Isaac's mother was a Lenape indian, and his father was French, but when Isaac was two they passed away at a Quaker care facility, and the young Quaker mother who nursed his parents took Isaac into their family, and he became her son. Later, Isaac feels the call to find out more about his family and leaves the Friends community for a few years. He feels he is called by God to be a peacekeeper between the Indians and the white settlers as there is much turmoil between the two groups. Isaac comes to point where that work is done, so he feels as if he should go home, back to the Friends community and back to Elisabeth.
Elizabeth, now 19, has grown up since Isaac left, and finds herself raising three of her siblings, and in a very hard position. She loves being a part of the Friends community, but tragedy strikes her hard, and she needs help to keep her and her siblings safe, especially with the rumors of Indian raids, sickness, slavery, and every day struggles that settlers faced during that time. As a Friend, she has strong moral standards, and tries very hard to show the light of Christ through the love and care of people, hence she has learned midwifery, and even helps deliver a runaway slave's baby. But she doesn't see the color of her skin, only a mother to be! Now she is faced with caring for her siblings, but can a single, unmarried young woman handle such a task? Will the community allow that? She struggles with her options, but wants so badly to keep her siblings together!
Elisabeth and Isaac will be reunited, but will find life very different from when they were children. This book is their story of when they are reunited, and through struggle, hardship and turmoil, they try to keep that friendship intact, but so much is against them. The Friends community does not leave them to flounder by themselves, but sometimes they may had to make hard decisions depending on what was best for all involved. I won't give any spoilers, but this book is seriously worth the time to find out how Elisabeth and Isaac weather these stormy waters, and if their friendship can also weather it, or will it be torn apart forever?
I love historical fiction and this book was a joy to read! It taught me a lot about the Friends community, their love of Christ and how they desire to show it to others, no matter their race, religion, or lack ok it! I learned about the struggles between the Indians and the settlers, as the author shared both sides! Family is the most important, and I see that Elisabeth and Isaac, and their relationship with the children. Life was hard back then, but love made it bearable! The biggest takeaway for me was the truth of how a three-fold cord is not easily broken, especially with Christ as the third strand. It made me so glad that He is the third strand in all my relationships as He was in Elisabeth & Isaac's relationship! I really enjoyed this book, and would highly recommend it.
December 17, 2020
A Cord of Three Strands
by Christy Distler
Born to a French trader and a Lenape woman. Reared by Quakers. As the French & Indian War rages, one man strives for peace—between Pennsylvania and its Indian tribes, and between his own heart and mind.
As 1756 dawns, Isaac Lukens leaves the Pennsylvania wilderness after two years with the Lenape people. He’s failed to find the families of his birth parents, a French trader and a Lenape woman. Worse, the tribe he’s lived with, having rejected his peacemaking efforts, now ravages frontier settlements in retaliation. When he arrives in the Quaker community where he was reared, questions taunt him: Who is he—white man or Lenape? And where does he belong?
Elisabeth Alden, Isaac’s dearest childhood friend, is left to tend her young siblings alone upon her father’s death. Despite Isaac’s promise to care for her and the children, she battles resentment toward him for having left, while an unspeakable tragedy and her discordant courtship with a prominent Philadelphian weigh on her as well.
Elisabeth must marry or lose guardianship of her siblings, and her options threaten the life with her and the children that Isaac has come to love. Faced with Elisabeth’s hesitancy to marry, the prospect of finding his family at last, and the opportunity to assist in the peace process between Pennsylvania and its Indian tribes, Isaac must determine where—and to whom—the Almighty has called him.
A Cord of Three Strands weaves fact and fiction into a captivating portrayal of Colonial-era Quaker life, including Friends’ roles in Pennsylvania Indian relations and in refuting slavery.
Impressions: I think trying to make the language authentic was a bit challenging. It helps set the scene but it was distracting as well. Kind of like reading the KJV of the Bible.
Rated: War, discrimination, slavery, Indian attacks, rape, murder
Liked: After reading the personal note from the author; the story became more personal and interesting.
Disliked: The romance between these characters took forever… It was also doubtful that the Quakers would have been so permissive of their close and intimate relationship.
Quotes:
“Tisn’t my intention to judge, only to understand…”
“…what I learned is that with anger, we must ask questions to determine its appropriateness. What is its motivation? On what is it focused? Is it properly controlled? Is its duration suitable? And does it have an apt result?” – Good wisdom in this.
“So thee is feeling overburdened by thy duties? Or is thee feeling some resentment that Ethan has fewer duties? Or a bit of both?” -My boys are 4 years apart and this is literally our discussion daily.
“Thee is human, Abby, and as humans, we’re naturally inclined to selfishness. ‘Tis only through extending the love of Jesus Christ to others that we overcome that. We must learn to love them as much- or more than we love ourselves.”
“I didn’t mean that. I don’t know why I said it.’ I did- mainly because I’d spoken hastily so many times myself. ‘That is what happens when we are quicker to speak than we are to listen. God gave us two ears but only one mouth. Remember that.”
“Anger, as righteous as it felt, would only complicate the situation and undermine the path to an agreeable resolution.”
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.
by Christy Distler
Born to a French trader and a Lenape woman. Reared by Quakers. As the French & Indian War rages, one man strives for peace—between Pennsylvania and its Indian tribes, and between his own heart and mind.
As 1756 dawns, Isaac Lukens leaves the Pennsylvania wilderness after two years with the Lenape people. He’s failed to find the families of his birth parents, a French trader and a Lenape woman. Worse, the tribe he’s lived with, having rejected his peacemaking efforts, now ravages frontier settlements in retaliation. When he arrives in the Quaker community where he was reared, questions taunt him: Who is he—white man or Lenape? And where does he belong?
Elisabeth Alden, Isaac’s dearest childhood friend, is left to tend her young siblings alone upon her father’s death. Despite Isaac’s promise to care for her and the children, she battles resentment toward him for having left, while an unspeakable tragedy and her discordant courtship with a prominent Philadelphian weigh on her as well.
Elisabeth must marry or lose guardianship of her siblings, and her options threaten the life with her and the children that Isaac has come to love. Faced with Elisabeth’s hesitancy to marry, the prospect of finding his family at last, and the opportunity to assist in the peace process between Pennsylvania and its Indian tribes, Isaac must determine where—and to whom—the Almighty has called him.
A Cord of Three Strands weaves fact and fiction into a captivating portrayal of Colonial-era Quaker life, including Friends’ roles in Pennsylvania Indian relations and in refuting slavery.
Impressions: I think trying to make the language authentic was a bit challenging. It helps set the scene but it was distracting as well. Kind of like reading the KJV of the Bible.
Rated: War, discrimination, slavery, Indian attacks, rape, murder
Liked: After reading the personal note from the author; the story became more personal and interesting.
Disliked: The romance between these characters took forever… It was also doubtful that the Quakers would have been so permissive of their close and intimate relationship.
Quotes:
“Tisn’t my intention to judge, only to understand…”
“…what I learned is that with anger, we must ask questions to determine its appropriateness. What is its motivation? On what is it focused? Is it properly controlled? Is its duration suitable? And does it have an apt result?” – Good wisdom in this.
“So thee is feeling overburdened by thy duties? Or is thee feeling some resentment that Ethan has fewer duties? Or a bit of both?” -My boys are 4 years apart and this is literally our discussion daily.
“Thee is human, Abby, and as humans, we’re naturally inclined to selfishness. ‘Tis only through extending the love of Jesus Christ to others that we overcome that. We must learn to love them as much- or more than we love ourselves.”
“I didn’t mean that. I don’t know why I said it.’ I did- mainly because I’d spoken hastily so many times myself. ‘That is what happens when we are quicker to speak than we are to listen. God gave us two ears but only one mouth. Remember that.”
“Anger, as righteous as it felt, would only complicate the situation and undermine the path to an agreeable resolution.”
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.
July 29, 2020
To be honest, the prologue to this book made me think I might not enjoy it because the language seemed a little old fashioned. The important words in the previous sentence? Seemed and at first. Because by chapter 1 I realized the use of older language was a way to bring me closer to understanding the characters and their way of life. It wasn’t long before beginning it that I was hooked on the book and having a hard time putting it down. I was on the edge of my seat throughout, wondering what trial or triumph might face the main characters, Isaac and Elisabeth, next.
This book is a romance in some ways, yes, but it is such a sweet, gradual romance that the reader isn’t overwhelmed with sappiness and drama. Much of the romantic nature of the story is over shadowed by the compelling story of the Lenape people through the eyes of Isaac and the story of the Quakers through both Isaac and Elisabeth’s eyes. This isn’t one of those romantic stories where romance is the main focus. Yes, love is the main thread that holds the characters and the story together but it is a love that is deeper than a physical and romantic attraction. It is a spiritual love and an emotional one.
From the beginning of this book I fell in love with the characters, my heart broke for their trials, and my eyes were opened to the struggles faced by this nation’s early settlers and the natives who lived on the land before the settlers ever arrived. I literally wanted to crawl inside the book at times and hug Elisabeth close and then take her away from a world that could be so cruel in the early years of our nation’s founding.
I was never sure what adventure was coming next for Isaac and Elisabeth and I loved that. It kept me turning pages (and kept me up too late at some nights). As a Christian I don’t believe in fate so in this case I believe it was divine guidance that led me to discover Christy’s book. In the first few pages Christy mentioned a town near where I grew up and now live, which hooked me on the book even more.
I later discovered the author lives in the same state and holds the same love for this state’s local and Native American history in the same way I do. This is Christy’s first book, but I expect to see many more from her in the future and I’m really looking forward to them.
If you’re not already a fan of historical fiction, this book will make you one.
This book is a romance in some ways, yes, but it is such a sweet, gradual romance that the reader isn’t overwhelmed with sappiness and drama. Much of the romantic nature of the story is over shadowed by the compelling story of the Lenape people through the eyes of Isaac and the story of the Quakers through both Isaac and Elisabeth’s eyes. This isn’t one of those romantic stories where romance is the main focus. Yes, love is the main thread that holds the characters and the story together but it is a love that is deeper than a physical and romantic attraction. It is a spiritual love and an emotional one.
From the beginning of this book I fell in love with the characters, my heart broke for their trials, and my eyes were opened to the struggles faced by this nation’s early settlers and the natives who lived on the land before the settlers ever arrived. I literally wanted to crawl inside the book at times and hug Elisabeth close and then take her away from a world that could be so cruel in the early years of our nation’s founding.
I was never sure what adventure was coming next for Isaac and Elisabeth and I loved that. It kept me turning pages (and kept me up too late at some nights). As a Christian I don’t believe in fate so in this case I believe it was divine guidance that led me to discover Christy’s book. In the first few pages Christy mentioned a town near where I grew up and now live, which hooked me on the book even more.
I later discovered the author lives in the same state and holds the same love for this state’s local and Native American history in the same way I do. This is Christy’s first book, but I expect to see many more from her in the future and I’m really looking forward to them.
If you’re not already a fan of historical fiction, this book will make you one.
January 27, 2021
Some years earlier, Isaac left Horsham, the home of his adoptive parents, to search for his deceased birth mother's family. Now, no longer safe among the Lenape but without having found his relatives, he returns to Horsham to find his childhood friend Elizabeth grown up, with younger step-siblings to care for - and a potential suitor in Philadelphia. Their relationship is still strong, but she is still hurt by his having left her, while he doesn't feel free to act on his feelings for her for various reasons. Will Isaac leave again in further attempts to find family, or will he discover that family can be what you make it rather than what you were born of?
To be honest, I am more likely to avoid books about American Indians, and I've never read many about Friends either (more because I haven't come across many). For those and other reasons, I wasn't sure what to expect of this book and nearly didn't pick it up. However, I'm very glad that I did. With its strong themes of family and God's guidance, it's both interesting and inspiring, as well as thought-provoking. Various Quaker practices are mentioned in passing, which I found interesting to think about, and the lessons about listening for God's guidance and caring for family were helpful too - I particularly liked the idea of a marriage as a three-strand cord: husband, wife and God. Oh, and the story was interesting on its own as well! I really enjoyed getting to know Isaac and Elizabeth and the kids, and will be looking out for more by the author in future.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
To be honest, I am more likely to avoid books about American Indians, and I've never read many about Friends either (more because I haven't come across many). For those and other reasons, I wasn't sure what to expect of this book and nearly didn't pick it up. However, I'm very glad that I did. With its strong themes of family and God's guidance, it's both interesting and inspiring, as well as thought-provoking. Various Quaker practices are mentioned in passing, which I found interesting to think about, and the lessons about listening for God's guidance and caring for family were helpful too - I particularly liked the idea of a marriage as a three-strand cord: husband, wife and God. Oh, and the story was interesting on its own as well! I really enjoyed getting to know Isaac and Elizabeth and the kids, and will be looking out for more by the author in future.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
December 27, 2020
Cord of Three Strands
by Christy Distler
BooksGoSocial
Christian | Historical Fiction
Pub Date 08 Jun 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Cord of Three Hands through BooksGoSocial and Netgalley:
When 1756 begins Issac Lukens leaves the Pennsylvania wilderness after two years with the Lenape people. He has failed to find the families of his birth parents, a French trader and a Lenape woman. Even worse the tribe he has lived with has rejected his efforts at peacemaking, and now they are ravaging frontier settlements in retaliation. After Issac arrives in the Quaker community where he was reared, questions taunt him: He wants to know who he is a white man, or Lenape? Where does he belong?
Elisabeth Alden was Issac’s nearest and dearest childhood friend, she is left to to tend her young siblings alone upon her father’s death. Issac had promised to care for her and the children, she battles resentment toward him for having left, while an unspeakable tragedy and her discordant courtship with a prominent Philadelphian weigh on her as well.
Elisabeth finds that she must marry or she will loose custody or her young siblings and her options threaten the life with her and the children that Isaac has come to love. While faced with Elisabeth’s reluctance to Marry, and the prospect of finding his family at last, as well as being faced with the opportunity to help in the peace process between Pennsylvania and the Indian tribes. But Issac must first find out where and to whom he belongs.
I give A Cord of Three Strands five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
January 12, 2021
Ecclesiastes 4:12
And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
I love fiction with Native Americans and their different cultures. A Cord of Three Strands instantly piqued my interest because it merged the Lenape (or Delaware) culture with the Quaker culture. This Historical is set during the French and Indian War. You learn a lot about the happenings that took place during the time period. You can also tell the author put in lots of research, especially with the languages, customs, and historical content. Everything was accurate and detailed.
ACOTS is a slow burn romance, so if you are looking for insta-love this is not it but in no way did this detract it from being a great story. Isaac and Elisabeth were friends first but throughout the story you see their friendship morph into something spectacular. The author thoroughly serenades the reader.
“But then there is thee. With thee, I need not be one or the other
I’m simply myself, and thee loves me as I am. -- And because
thee is here, and when I’m with thee, I belong.”
- Christy Distler
~ SIGH ~
Yezzzz….So beautiful and sweet. I could not get enough! Keep it comin’ with those Thees and Thous!
*Cough*
Any way….
The children Abigail, Ethan, and Jon-Isaac stole my heart. Their personalities were very mischievous and cute which made their characters tangible. All in all, I would recommend this book to those who love historical fiction with a dash of romance and
faith. Defiantly a keeper.
And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
I love fiction with Native Americans and their different cultures. A Cord of Three Strands instantly piqued my interest because it merged the Lenape (or Delaware) culture with the Quaker culture. This Historical is set during the French and Indian War. You learn a lot about the happenings that took place during the time period. You can also tell the author put in lots of research, especially with the languages, customs, and historical content. Everything was accurate and detailed.
ACOTS is a slow burn romance, so if you are looking for insta-love this is not it but in no way did this detract it from being a great story. Isaac and Elisabeth were friends first but throughout the story you see their friendship morph into something spectacular. The author thoroughly serenades the reader.
“But then there is thee. With thee, I need not be one or the other
I’m simply myself, and thee loves me as I am. -- And because
thee is here, and when I’m with thee, I belong.”
- Christy Distler
~ SIGH ~
Yezzzz….So beautiful and sweet. I could not get enough! Keep it comin’ with those Thees and Thous!
*Cough*
Any way….
The children Abigail, Ethan, and Jon-Isaac stole my heart. Their personalities were very mischievous and cute which made their characters tangible. All in all, I would recommend this book to those who love historical fiction with a dash of romance and
faith. Defiantly a keeper.
June 29, 2020
Take a journey back in time to the early colonial days in Pennsylvania with Christy Distler’s novel A cord of Three Strands. This historical Christian Fiction follows the lives of Isaac and Elisabeth and takes alternating points of view between these two characters. Isaac is half Lenape Indian. When his parents died of an illness, he was taken in by a Quaker family that lived near Elisabeth’s home. They became the best of friends. Then, Isaac left. He went to find his people to do what he could to help maintain the peace between the colonist and Indians. However, tension continued to rise and Isaac was forced to flee for fear of his life. He returned home. Elisabeth is glad to see him, but she isn’t sure she can forgive him. Can they pick up where they left off seven years ago?
Being a big fan of historical fiction, I found this novel intriguing. It was eye opening to get a look into both sides of the conflict between the settlers and the Native Americans. I also learned a lot about the Quakers and their way of life. The accents in the dialogue are heavy, but I didn’t find it confusing or bothersome. This is a Christian Fiction novel and is clean. There is a bit of violence in the story, but is is not too graphic. If you like Christian Romance and/or Historical Fiction, I highly recommend this book for you.
Being a big fan of historical fiction, I found this novel intriguing. It was eye opening to get a look into both sides of the conflict between the settlers and the Native Americans. I also learned a lot about the Quakers and their way of life. The accents in the dialogue are heavy, but I didn’t find it confusing or bothersome. This is a Christian Fiction novel and is clean. There is a bit of violence in the story, but is is not too graphic. If you like Christian Romance and/or Historical Fiction, I highly recommend this book for you.
December 10, 2020
When I saw the title of this book, I was very excited about reading it. It is from one of my favorite Bible verses Ecclesiastes 4:22. Of course one of the most meaningful portions of the book for me, is when as a child Elisabeth braids a lock of her hair, a lock of Isaac's and a lock of red wool to represent Jesus. Years later she finds it in her Bible and they are reminded at a very hard time of Gods promise. My favorite genre of novels is Christian Historical Romance, especially when they are done well. This book by Christy Distler was a cut above. I was drawn into the setting and characters write from the first few pages. There is a prologue at the very beginning explaining some of the words, terms and their meaning, so you do not get lost. Living in Pennsylvanian near the Pennsylvanian Dutch I found the language refreshing. The story was very sad and touching in places. Christy had such well crafted characters you can't help but fall in love with them. I was captivated and enjoyed this book from start to finish.
I thank BooksGoSocial for allowing me, through NetGalley, to read this great book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I thank BooksGoSocial for allowing me, through NetGalley, to read this great book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 10, 2020
When I saw the title of this book, I was very excited about reading it. It is from one of my favorite Bible verses Ecclesiastes 4:22. Of course one of the most meaningful portions of the book for me, is when as a child Elisabeth braids a lock of her hair, a lock of Isaac's and a lock of red wool to represent Jesus. Years later she finds it in her Bible and they are reminded at a very hard time of Gods promise. My favorite genre of novels is Christian Historical Romance, especially when they are done well. This book by Christy Distler was a cut above. I was drawn into the setting and characters write from the first few pages. There is a prologue at the very beginning explaining some of the words, terms and their meaning, so you do not get lost. Living in Pennsylvanian near the Pennsylvanian Dutch I found the language refreshing. The story was very sad and touching in places. Christy had such well crafted characters you can't help but fall in love with them. I was captivated and enjoyed this book from start to finish.
I thank BooksGoSocial for allowing me, through NetGalley, to read this great book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I thank BooksGoSocial for allowing me, through NetGalley, to read this great book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 13, 2020
This book was so good y'all! I appreciate the hard work that the author has put into her novel for people like me to enjoy and lose ourselves in. Even if only for a little while. Living back in those times like Issac and Elizabeth did I'm sure was very scary! They were two of the most fascinating people that I've ever met. I admired them and their faith in God. I liked this book. There were many things that I found that time hasn't changed things at all! Racism for one. No matter what people will be people. They will be afraid of what they don't always understand. It's what makes them do unpleasant things. Another thing is how fast friendships can change. Just wow! Over the slightest thing too. The author has pulled this story off perfectly. I didn't find one thing wrong with it. This book is exciting and in some places will make you cry and have you looking over your shoulder for what may be hidden or who may pop out at any time. I liked this book so much that I just had to brag about it. I recommend this book My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own. 5 stars!
December 27, 2020
I love historical fiction, especially clean storylines, and very especially ones that revolve around people trying to live Godly, Biblical lives. I'm especially interested in the Colonial and Revolutionary times in America. This book takes place around the French and Indian War (just prior to the Revolutionary War), and it focuses on the lives of the Quakers in Pennsylvania and their extensive efforts for peace with the Lenape people. I enjoyed reading the vernacular of the Quakers. The evolving love between the two main characters was interesting and heart-felt.
Trigger warning: There is some violence and discussion of a past sexual assault. But neither are graphic. The author took great pains to be accurate and yet not sensational.
Overall, I loved this story. I read it over the course of three or four days, which is something of a record for me in my super-busy life. It was just that good. I kept thinking about the characters when I was doing something, and then I'd find myself reading again.
I gratefully received a free ARC digital copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion.
Trigger warning: There is some violence and discussion of a past sexual assault. But neither are graphic. The author took great pains to be accurate and yet not sensational.
Overall, I loved this story. I read it over the course of three or four days, which is something of a record for me in my super-busy life. It was just that good. I kept thinking about the characters when I was doing something, and then I'd find myself reading again.
I gratefully received a free ARC digital copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion.
January 27, 2021
A Cord of Three Strands by Christy Distler,what can really be said that I really and truly tell in love with this story. It's written as if you are right there in the story where you feel the love the hurt the hate the pain of all the characters! Very,very well research this story is you can see history unfolding in front of you and you are living it! You have so many different characters and places to see and visit and learn a part of history I was never taught. The way the story unfolds for you,the description of the places and people are so unbelievable true to life! It is a very much a story to make you think of what you believe and don't and it will bring your faith stronger in God it did for me! Can't explain enough and rave on what a fantastic read this is!! I received from New Gallery and thank you so very much. I know I was to read and review 2020,but it didn't get done but at least I did get to read and review and I'm so glad I finally did cause I would have missed a excel!ent read!!I will be looking for many more books from this author.
December 31, 2020
An interesting story of Pennsylvania in mid 1700s. Isaac Lukens has been away trying to find out about his birth parents. His mother was Lenape and his father a French trader. They died when he was very young and he was taken in by a Friend family the Lukens. They did not know anything about him when they took him in so they named him Isaac, He was raised with Elizabeth Alden and after two years of being gone returning to see her and his adopted family.
Elizabeth's father died just before Isaac returns leaving her with his second wife's two children and the child he had with her to raise alone. She has the Friend community to help her but that can't go on forever. Can the the two of them find the love they need to marry and raise the children who they both love very much.
The story takes us through their lives and finding each other. They have to find peace in their own life as well as the love they need for each other.
Elizabeth's father died just before Isaac returns leaving her with his second wife's two children and the child he had with her to raise alone. She has the Friend community to help her but that can't go on forever. Can the the two of them find the love they need to marry and raise the children who they both love very much.
The story takes us through their lives and finding each other. They have to find peace in their own life as well as the love they need for each other.
January 23, 2021
Isaac and Elisabeth have been friends for most of their lives, but he left to find family he has only heard of. When he returns, he finds Elisabeth grown into a lovely woman with some trust issues when it comes to trusting Isaac. She never expected him to be gone for over two years. Herr father dies, but before he does he has Isaac promise to take care of Elisabeth and her young siblings,who have nobody else to care for them. As their friendship returns, it begins to grow into something more, a stronger relationship than they had before. She has a secret she is afraid to share, but when she does, she learns that he still cares deeply for her, in spite of it. It's a very good story that is clean, and I enjoyed reading it very much!
July 12, 2021
This extensively researched book concerning Pennsylvania in the time period before the Revolutionary War is excellent. It gives a very honest and thoughtful look at the Friends of the time and place as well as the difficulties with the local indigenous people and a glimpse into the trials and troubles that developed with intermarriage between the Lenape and the settlers. Isaac and Elizabeth and the children are portrayed in a realistic fashion and some topics of an adult nature are carefully dealt with. The whole flavor of #acordofthreestrands. by Ms Distler seems true to her Christianity and to the tenets of the Quaker faith.
I thank #netgalley and the publisher for bringing this book to my attention and am happy to write this honest review.
I thank #netgalley and the publisher for bringing this book to my attention and am happy to write this honest review.
June 16, 2021
A rich historical tale that looks at the colonial conflicts between Native American tribes and Pennsylvania residents. Enlightening and emotional all at once, I could not put this one down. Character development is well done, and it moves along at a good pace. Elisabeth and Isaac have both endured painful times and have to learn to love and trust. I enjoyed their backstory and how they came together. I love all the details and authenticity the author captures as well. A new to me author that I look forward to seeing more from soon.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
July 2, 2023
An intriguing tale of a young Quaker woman and her childhood friend and confidante during the time of the French and Indian War in Eastern Pennsylvania. At the age of 19, Elisabeth finds herself mothering her half- sister and two half-brothers as a single woman. Her close friend, Issac, who was orphaned as a toddler, searches for family from both his father's side and from his mother's Lenape side. Clinging to their faith, both find answers by seeking Light as they work towards reestablishing their childhood fellowship.
September 27, 2020
Excellent Historical Book!
I read tons of books, but only review my favorites.This book addresses many historical facts during the French and Indian War (1754-1763) in Pennsylvania. The love story involves Elisabeth a Quaker, and Isaac a part Lenape Indian who has been raised by the Quakers. The author explores the customs and Quaker religion of this time period, and how they impacted Elizabeth's and Isaac's choices and lives. Loved it!
I read tons of books, but only review my favorites.This book addresses many historical facts during the French and Indian War (1754-1763) in Pennsylvania. The love story involves Elisabeth a Quaker, and Isaac a part Lenape Indian who has been raised by the Quakers. The author explores the customs and Quaker religion of this time period, and how they impacted Elizabeth's and Isaac's choices and lives. Loved it!
November 13, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
As a librarian and a history buff, I appreciated the research and historical aspects of this book. The story was very engaging and fully kept my interest. As a church librarian, I appreciate the adherence to Biblical teaching and scripture references. I have been searching for “new to our collection” authors and am delighted to add Christy Distler and “A chord of three strands” to our shelves. I feel sure it will become a quick favorite.
As a librarian and a history buff, I appreciated the research and historical aspects of this book. The story was very engaging and fully kept my interest. As a church librarian, I appreciate the adherence to Biblical teaching and scripture references. I have been searching for “new to our collection” authors and am delighted to add Christy Distler and “A chord of three strands” to our shelves. I feel sure it will become a quick favorite.
July 27, 2020
A captivating story
In the beginning of the book before the story starts, the author has three section that should be read before chapter one. I found the Friends language easy to understand. The two main characters are fiction, but much of the background of the story is based on facts. They blending of the fictional characters into the story is well done.
In the beginning of the book before the story starts, the author has three section that should be read before chapter one. I found the Friends language easy to understand. The two main characters are fiction, but much of the background of the story is based on facts. They blending of the fictional characters into the story is well done.
September 17, 2020
Impressive
I love historical fiction that is well researched. My own Quaker ancestors almost certainly knew some of the people named. This gave me a glimpse into what their lives may have been like, something I've often wondered about.
The story itself was remarkable in the way the main.characters maintained and valued their integrity in difficult circumstances.
I love historical fiction that is well researched. My own Quaker ancestors almost certainly knew some of the people named. This gave me a glimpse into what their lives may have been like, something I've often wondered about.
The story itself was remarkable in the way the main.characters maintained and valued their integrity in difficult circumstances.
September 29, 2021
Time We'll Spent
This author new to me has an excellent gift as a story teller. Looking forward to more noble characters and relevant scriptures all where needed. As well as educational, drama, dialog, and plot tension, she knows her craft. Great vacation to a place and time.
I loved her family loyality.
This author new to me has an excellent gift as a story teller. Looking forward to more noble characters and relevant scriptures all where needed. As well as educational, drama, dialog, and plot tension, she knows her craft. Great vacation to a place and time.
I loved her family loyality.
August 26, 2023
A Beautiful Love Story
This novel was filled with scriptures that uplifted the story not only that of a man and women but God''s love for each of us. The story told from each of the characters viewpoint.
Several times lately I've begun to read a recent book only to find it filled with obscenities. A refreshing uplifting book.
This novel was filled with scriptures that uplifted the story not only that of a man and women but God''s love for each of us. The story told from each of the characters viewpoint.
Several times lately I've begun to read a recent book only to find it filled with obscenities. A refreshing uplifting book.
July 27, 2020
Good Reading
I really enjoy American history. This book brought to life the history in Pennsylvania and the culture of Friends, their daily life and concern for the Indians and runway slaves. Please if you enjoy historical novels read this.
I really enjoy American history. This book brought to life the history in Pennsylvania and the culture of Friends, their daily life and concern for the Indians and runway slaves. Please if you enjoy historical novels read this.
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