Title: Lily and the Major
Author: Linda Lael Miller
First published December 1, 1990
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780671676360 (ISBN10: 0671676369)
Rating: 3.98
Overview
Linda Lael Miller’s bestselling novel Lily and the Major is back with a new edition. This historical classic tells the story of a woman who has always wanted two things: to find her sisters and own a farm.
She never imagined falling in love, until she met Major Caleb Halliday. With just one touch, he ignited a passionate fire within her that she had never experienced before.
Lily found herself torn between her love for Caleb and her dreams, but she knew deep down that she could never choose between the man who had captured her heart and her cherished aspirations. Lily and the Major is a captivating tale that will leave readers swooning and rooting for true love to prevail.
About the Author
Linda Lael Miller is a prolific author with over 100 historical and contemporary novels to her name, many of which showcase her love for the American West. Growing up in Northport, Washington, Linda was a restless spirit who traveled extensively and lived in London and Arizona before eventually returning to her home state and settling on a spacious property outside of Spokane.
Linda’s writing career started when a teacher in Northport praised her stories and suggested she had a talent for writing. Despite facing rejection, Linda persevered and eventually sold her first novel, Fletcher’s Woman, to Pocket Books in 1983.
Since then, she has published a wide range of genres, including historicals, contemporaries, paranormals, mysteries, and thrillers. However, Linda eventually found her niche in Western-themed novels.
In recognition of her dedication to her craft, Linda was awarded the Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award by the Romance Writers of America in 2007. She is also a passionate Civil War enthusiast and has spent nearly thirty years studying the era.
Linda has personally financed fifteen years’ worth of scholarships for women aged 25 and older seeking to improve their lives through education.
Her latest novel, The Yankee Widow, explores the turbulent times during the Civil War and is available in hardcover, digital, and audiobook formats. For more information on Linda and her work, visit her website or Facebook page, or reach out to Nancy Berland Public Relations.
Editoral Review
Linda Lael Miller’s Lily and the Major is a classic historical romance novel set in the late 1800s. Known for her incredible storytelling skills, Miller successfully transports readers back to a simpler time with her vivid descriptions of the Old West, creating exciting romantic escapades that will leave readers wanting more.
The book follows the story of Lily, a headstrong young lady who leaves her privileged life behind to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate. Her pursuit leads her to a small mining town in Montana where she meets the Major, a dashing former soldier who is haunted by his past and struggling to find his place in the world.
As they get to know each other, their attraction grows, but Lily’s desire for adventure and the Major’s reluctance to settle down may keep them apart forever. Miller’s writing is vivid and lively, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the exciting and dangerous world of the Old West.
The dialogue is witty and clever, keeping readers engaged and invested in the story. Miller’s attention to detail is impressive, from the descriptions of the dusty countryside to the clothing the characters wear, she accurately depicts the time and place.
The characters are well-developed, with both Lily and the Major being strong and complex characters. Miller skillfully explores their flaws and vulnerability, making them all the more relatable and engaging.
This, in turn, allows for a satisfying romance that is both heartwarming and poignant. While the story is captivating, it is not without its flaws.
The character development at times appears to take a backseat to the action and romance, with some characters feeling somewhat underdeveloped. Additionally, the book may be a little too formulaic for some readers, with the stereotypical romantic tropes feeling predictable.
That being said, Lily and the Major is a highly recommended read for anyone looking for a beautifully written historical romance with well-drawn characters and authentic depictions of the time and place. It is a great choice for fans of Western romance and for those looking for a nostalgic and romantic escape.
Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to escape into a world of adventure, intrigue, and love. If I had to rate the book, I would give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
Linda Lael Miller’s Lily and the Major is a highly enjoyable read that keeps the reader engaged and satisfied from start to finish. Whether you’re new to the historical romance genre or a seasoned veteran, this book is a great choice.