At a glance
The Tender Years
Christian Historical Fiction
The Tender Years
Book 1 of the A Prairie Legacy series
270 pages · First published 1997
Growing up in a loving Christian family on the Canadian prairie, Virginia Simpson has always known the security of her parents' guidance and the faith that shaped generations before her. But as she enters adolescence, she begins to feel the pull of friendships and experiences beyond the familiar boundaries of home, especially when a new girl at school introduces her to a very different way of life. Eager to be accepted and increasingly frustrated by her family's expectations, Virginia struggles to distinguish her own convictions from the rules she has always followed. As her choices test the trust of those who love her, she must confront the consequences of seeking approval in the wrong places and discover what it means to make her family's faith her own. Tender and reflective, this coming-of-age story invites readers to step back in time, strengthen their faith, and revisit the difficult but hopeful journey from childhood innocence toward maturity.
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Jump to the pours ↓Raven Blackberry Tea + Bourbon Tea Toddy
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No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Adolescent rebellion and peer pressure; conflict between parents and children; dishonesty, disobedience, and strained family relationships; emotional insecurity and fear of rejection; challenges to religious convictions and personal faith; consequences of poor choices. Mild romantic interest may be present.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Raven Blackberry Tea
Blackberries and honey lend a gentle sweetness to this comforting tea, reflecting the love and guidance that surround Virginia as she begins finding her own way.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Serve hot.
- Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
- Glassware: Mug.
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Mug ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Bourbon Tea Toddy
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Warm tea, bourbon, and honey suit a quiet prairie evening as Virginia navigates the growing pains of adolescence and learns to make her family's faith her own.
What you'll need
- 6 oz hot black tea ↗
- 1 1/2 oz bourbon
- 1 tbsp honey ↗
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice ↗
Shop the spirits 21+Search Total Wine for Bourbon · 21+ ↗
How to mix it
- Add bourbon, honey, and lemon juice to a warmed mug. Top with hot black tea and stir until the honey dissolves.
- Garnish: Lemon wheel.
- Glassware: Mug.
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