Born of This Fire

"Intimate and epic, historical and timeless. This novel burns quietly but leaves a lasting mark."

A young bride faces the dangerous legacy of her husbands past—and the cost of standing with him. Romantic historical fiction inspired by true events.

Can their love survive what the Border War left behind?

Leavenworth, Kansas, 1864: New bride Annie Osborn Anthony left genteel Marthas Vineyard with high hopes and strong ideals—only to step into a town still scarred from Bleeding Kansas with a husband whose abolitionist reputation has earned dangerous enemies. When she discovers a hidden journal that reveals another side of the border war—and of Daniel—she begins to question the man she married.

During the war, mayor Daniel Read Anthony was a hero to some and a menace to others. Now he fights with the press instead of a pistol, and hell do anything to protect Annie. Even hide truths he believes will spare her pain.

But when Daniels controversial past comes to light and threatens everything theyve built, will Annie walk away—or stand with the man she loves?

Born of this Fire is Book Two in the acclaimed Dauntless Series. Inspired by true events from suffragist Susan B. Anthonys family, it pairs Daniels fierce convictions with Annies quiet strength in a Civil War–era marriage tested by betrayal and violence. Perfect for readers who love character-driven historical fiction set on the American frontier—rich with heart, history, and redemption.

Through the lens of one womans spiritual and emotional awakening, this novel invites readers to consider the courage it takes not to fight, but to stay.

Finalist in the 2026 American Legacy Book Awards, Family Saga category; Honorable Mention in the 2026 Eric Hoffer Awards, Historical Fiction category; Regional Finalist in the 2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards.

​​​​​​​Get your copy today!

PRAISE:

"A beautifully crafted love story rooted in one of Americas most turbulent eras."

"War, emancipation, Lincolns assassination—and one womans journey from dependent bride to person in her own right. I couldnt put this book down."

"This love story made the Civil War period personal. If you like story lines that feature a strong and daring female lead, then this book is for you!"

"A brilliant snapshot of a turbulent era—and one womans discovery of her own strength. Couldnt put this book down."

"Love, loyalty, and endurance set against the searing backdrop of Civil War–era Kansas. Drawing on true events, Jeanne Gehret captures both the heat of battle and the quieter, more intimate wars fought inside the human heart."

"A well-researched story of love plus conflict in Kansas immediately after the Civil War. Youll feel like youre there with the characters making their way through this new frontier."

"Gripping and memorable. Meticulous historical research blends seamlessly with vivid storytelling, creating a narrative that feels authentic at every turn."

"A deeply textured exploration of love and loyalty set against the brutal realities of Bleeding Kansas and the Civil War era. Finely rendered historical detail and a protagonist who refuses to be overshadowed—historical fiction that grounds big ideas in intimate stakes."