Love is a Wild Assault

My mother knew Elithe Hamilton Kirkland when she was in college. When I was 11 years old my mom bought Elithe's book ... & had her sign it for me November 1981. I have kept the book with me as I've moved, married and grown up, although I didn't read it until the end of last year, 2002, 21 years later. I don't know why I waited so long! I guess I just wasn't ready... What a wonderful tribute Elithe completed when she made Harriet the Brave's story available to all for eternity. I learned about real challenges & tragic circumstances during the time when Texas became a Republic. I learned no matter what happened, Harriet overcame. She & Elithe are an inspiration to all women. If you're considering this book, please buy it & make it yours!For those of you who are curious, here is what Elithe (1910-1992) wrote to me many years ago: "For Melinda Darlene (who shares my Aquarian Birthday), Young Woman of the Future in time, you will come to know Harriet the Brave and Beautiful - to know her well and to love her! I predict that you and this Kishi Woman of Caddo Lake will be seekers of Truth and Tejas forever! Elithe Hamilton Kirkland, Kyle (at the Allen Bend of the Blanco), Texas, November 28, 1981"If you'd like to know more about Elithe Hamilton Kirkland, ref: http://www.library.swt.edu/swwc/archives/writers/kirkland.html

I was first given this book as a christmas present. My mother had told me the tale of Harriet Moore that fall and had spent months looking for a copy of this book. I was so excited to read this story of adventure, survival, hardship and love, especially knowing that I am a descendant of such an amazing woman. HArriet's life would be admired today as in the past as an amazing, couregeuos person. I have read and reread Love is a Wild Assault many times and it always brings me to tears. I feel so connectted to Harriet that I get caught up in her story and am so dissappointed when it ends, not because I did not enjoy the ending, much the oppostie. I am dissappointed because when i have turned the last page, I am forced to return to my everyday life. The adventure, romance and hardships gone. The chance to experience half of what Harriet did seems out of reach and her life, which inspired such emotions and spurred many tales, seems like one from another world. One I can never reach. The tale, based on the life of a real woman, woven by Ms. Kirkland sweeps the reader into Harriet's world. The breathtaking descriptions of the Texas wildernes and the vulnurability of a womand left alone to fend for herself and her children encompasses the reader and transports them away. I first read the book as a 12 year old in 7th grade. It inspired me then and inspires me still tody. Everyone should read it.

One of the librarians shared this book with me thinking that I might like it. I was so overcome by this book. If anyone thinks that they have it bad in life, I would recommend that they read this book. "Love Is a Wild Assault" has a certain charm. It's many adventures grab at your heart. I was impressed with the idea that this book was based on the life of a real person, a true Texas pioneer, and hero. I have read sections of this book to my children, written about it in my journal, and share it with my book buddies. It's unforgettable!

When I was in seventh grade, my English class was one of all girls. My teacher looked high and low until she found a copy of this book and we read it all together. That was 9 years ago, and this story still haunts me. It was, without a doubt, a turning point my reading tastes. It opened me up to a whole new level and genre of books.It is beautifully written. The fact that it is true makes it all the more powerful. I can't tell you how pleased I am to find this book here as I, myself, have searched high and low for it. Grab it while you can, and be prepared to be swept away into this story.

This book is based on the actual memoirs of Harriet Potter Ames. It is factually accurate, which I have found to be rare for historical fiction.Having said that, this is one of the three best books I have ever read. A friend recommended it to me as I flew to New York City, considering a move from Texas. This book helped to convince me to stay in Texas.This is a beautifully written story of the "Bravest Woman in Texas", and the struggles she overcame to raise a family and settle a home in the early days of the Texas Republic. It is a true story, and there is a monument to her in Smithland, Texas, as well as an annual celebration day for her at Potter's Point on Caddo Lake. This story is re-enacted in a one woman play at the site where the events occured. Fascinating reading, I recommend it for everyone, regardless of any individual taste in history, fiction, etc.