Uncharted Inheritance

Uncharted #3

by Keely Brooke Keith

As Bethany Colburn completes her apprenticeship and dodges unwanted suitors, a mysterious man arrives in her village. He brings charm Bethany has never encountered and illness the Land has never known. She will need more than her heightened intuition to uncover the truth about life in the Land.

Just when Everett Foster finds the courage to confess his love for Bethany, a stranger threatens his future with her--and their whole society. Everett must protect the Land, run a farm, and win back Bethany’s heart.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Dystopia

280 pages, Paperback

First published April 16, 2015

About the author

Keely Brooke Keith is the author of the beloved Uncharted series—inspirational frontier-style fiction with a slight sci-fi twist.

Born in St. Joseph, Missouri, Keely was a tree-climbing, baseball-loving 80s kid. After a 15-year career as a homeschool teacher, she now enjoys exploring the hidden gems of small-town America on road trips with her husband. Wherever the journeys take her, Keely always returns to her hilltop home south of Nashville, Tennessee, where she dreams up stories about a hidden land.

Join Keely’s email list at keelykeith.com/sign-up so you will always know when the next Uncharted book is available.

Reviews

[Kelsey Gietl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this book the best so far in the series! Emmett and Bethany were sweet together and I felt that Justin’s character provided a realistic love triangle given Bethany’s naiveté. It was also great that we had more interaction with the outside world.

There was only one disconnect in that Emmett did something in book 2 that should have deeply affected him, but it is never mentioned in this book. It’s like the entire family just forgot that it ever happened. Since we get this story from Emmett’s POV, I just expected that he would have thought about it.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 3 in the series and each story builds upon the next. Each book focuses on a different family member of the Overseer's family, but they are connected together and a reader will be lost starting with this one.

Bethany is a very curious soul, yet she has been so sheltered and protected her whole life, living in an undetected land and being the youngest in the family. When a mysterious man arrives in her village, she can't help but be intrigued by him and what he represents. Justin has been searching for this land for three years--ever since his companion's parachute floated towards it.

I can't help but be fascinated by this land and the inhabitants who live there. The way the atmosphere works is so gripping and sparked a lot vivid imagery in my mind. Ms. Keith has done a fantastic job of creating a place that is hidden from the rest of the war torn world. The characters are very well written and their personalities come to life on the pages. Bethany is a sensitive woman and is torn between doing what's right and what she feels she needs to do and I could feel her inner struggles. The traditions of Good Springs are quaint, yet necessary for this way of life.

The story doesn't really end on a cliff-hanger, but leaves the door open for more of this unique place and I can't wait!

Content: no language; mild romance (kiss, mild innuendo); mild violence (sparring, illness/deaths); no religious elements (it seems like it should be religious, due to their way of life, but it wasn't). Clean!

*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*

[Jenark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncharted Inheritance by Keely Brooke Keith is as amazing as I expected it to be. I found myself reading it slowly so it would last longer, but when I wasn't reading I was wondering what was going on in the story. Keely definitely has me hooked.

The story is about a naive 18 year old who of course knows everything. There's a fatal disease introduced into The Land. The morals and customs of The Land are brought into question. And a promising relationship is in jeopardy because of reckless decisions. Will The Land be invaded? How many will die from the fatal disease? Will relationships be shattered? You'll have to read the story to find out the answers to these questions and more.

*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an unbelievably great book. Once again, in this Uncharted series, I was drawn in from the first paragraph. I felt as though I was right there in the Land and part of the village. The tension was most believable and very well written. I sure wish there was more to the story, but sure did enjoy what there is. I highly recommend this book. I received a copy from the author in exchange for a fair review.

[Kim Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed this series so far. This third book wasn't as easy to get into as the first two were. I couldn't relate to Bethany at all. She just wasn't growing up and that was an angst to me. Then she was so naive when the worldly wise Justin came into her life - well, it just flabbergasted me. Why wan't her family being more honest with her. They warned her, but didn't tell her clearly what could happen. I finally got it that it was a matter of trust for Bethany. They shouldn't have had to tell her clearly, she should have just trusted them, and she didn't. Justin was a complicated character. At first I didn't know if he was going to be a good guy or a bad guy - and you will have to read the story to find out what kind of guy he turns out to be! Overall, the story had a good message - be careful who you trust; and we shouldn't follow our feelings, but faith in Christ first and in those who love us secondly.

[BrendaLee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrator had a very pleasant voice and I enjoyed the audiobook. Another interesting story about the people of the land. I love the ways of the people and the simplicity of their life. I love the way the men take care of their womenfolk and the way the women respect their men. There are lessons to learn in this story about being wrong and admitting it to forgiveness and learning respect for each other. The characters are actually complex and is more than what just meets the eye. A book with hope that they can keep their land hidden to the outside world.
If you like a clean book with a little romance that is a little different read, this book and the others about the land is for you.
I received a free promo code but was not required to write a review.

[Gina Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

So goes life and death.......

This third book in the series really got to the reality of life on the land, we had a birth, a marriage, a death a stranger and a deadly disease that had too be treated. This book was a fast read for me, it also showed me the youngest daughter of the Colburns, isn't so mature yet and even teenagers growing up in a whole different environment still doesn't listen to their parents!!, kind of ticked me off.... anyway looking forward to reading more in this series.

[A Holland Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A few things that I liked about this book as well as the rest of the series is the great character development in all the books. Not to mention the setting how the past is blended with the modern world in a way you would not expect. A good writing style that flows off the pages. Following along with Bethany as she grows into adulthood was a nice addition to this series. I have enjoyed each of these books and recommend them all.

[Debra Butterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way Keely Brooke Keith blends the genre of speculative fiction and historical fiction. She has masterfully created a world within a world that is so appealing I wish I could live there. Intriguing plot line and characters with depth. A great read for anyone who enjoys spec or historical fiction.

[Sherry K · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the series and it just keeps getting better

Just when you think the continuing story can't get any better, it does. Not only does God's lessons shine through in each novel, the mystery and intrigue want you to find out what will happen next.

[Darla Damron · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun story with adventure in twists and turns.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really enjoying the simplicity of these stories.

[Sharon Rudolph · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! This has been an interesting series, but I have enjoyed it.

[Madison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this series 💛 Onto book 4.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

good read

Very good read and intriguing. So glad things ended the way they did with Bethany and Everett !! Hope that doesn’t give it away

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keith continues to improve in her writing, and this book is the best so far. There's good tension between the two men interested in the girl, and good spiritual content. Be sure to read in order to get the full benefit of knowing who everyone is.

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Follow the lives of families who live on an island secluded from the rest of the world and worldwide problems. Will the intruder harm the people and reveal their secrets? I will definitely read the others in the series.

[Iola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read the first two books in the Uncharted series, so was looking forward to this final book. I’d been anticipating Justin’s arrival in The Land since the end of the first book, so it was good to finally see that happen. However, it didn’t quite live up to expectations, although that’s probably my fault. The earlier books had implied Justin and Connor were good friends, so I was expecting them to have similar values, if not similar personalities. They didn’t, and I think it would have been better if perhaps those differences had been signaled in the earlier books—it would have added to the tension and conflict. The conflict which had been signaled—that of Justin’s illness and arrival—was solved too easily; however, another conflict was introduced.

The other think I would have liked to have seen more of in the earlier books was Bethany and her gift. We are told her gift, an unusually developed sense of empathy, is why she befriends Justin, because she sees he’s lonely in The Land, but the reason felt like it came out of nowhere. The gift of empathy is a great idea, and provided some good internal conflict, but the suddenness made it feel a little contrived.

However, downplaying the potential external conflict around an epidemic and introducing Bethany’s gift gave the author the opportunity to explore a different side of Bethany: her innocence and curiosity. This internal conflict was probably stronger as Bethany was forced to learn a lesson we all have to learn (especially innocent teenage girls from conservative homes), that not all men are gentlemen. While several people tried to tell Bethany this, she didn’t take it well similar to other teenage girls I have known over the years. This made Bethany more of a complex character, and meant her character journey was driven by her internal conflict—which I find more satisfying as a reader.

In contrast, Justin and Everett were perhaps less complex, as their role was to be the opposites Bethany had to choose between. Everett, in particular, seemed to be reacting more to external events (Justin and Bethany), rather than facing his own internal journey. While the main focus of the plot was Bethany’s internal journey, it would have been good to know the men in a bit more depth.

The writing was solid—not strong, but solid. There were some minor editing glitches, but no more than I saw in the last two books I read (one from a major CBA publisher, and one from a digital-first imprint of a major ABA publisher). One thing that bugged me was the too-long paragraphs—some were over a page long even when viewed on the smallest font size my Kindle could offer (which made them two or three pages long at the font size I prefer to read with). This was mostly interior monologue, and the lack of paragraphing made these parts drag for me. Authors, white space is your friend.

Overall, while this wasn’t my favorite of the series, I’d still recommend Uncharted Inheritance to people looking for fiction with an original concept that reflects Christian values without being preachy. It would make a good Young Adult (or New Adult) read, or for someone who enjoys Amish fiction because they like the “traditional” setting and values but is looking for something different.

Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This third book in the series offers a true test of mettle for the people of The Land Uncharted. Just to prove he’s not nuts more than a desire to regain control of his errant life, a colleague of outsider Connor Bradshaw, first book hero, Justin Mercer, manages to get to the mysterious island where he last saw Bradshaw. The Land Uncharted appears like Brigadoon out of the mist every so often on the equinox.

The youngest Colburn daughter of the leader of the community of Good Springs, Bethany, is about to reach her majority. For all of her teen years she’s wanted to know the admiration and love of a unique man like the outworlder Connor, who married her oldest sister, the village doctor. When Mercer washes ashore, Bethany wonders if she’s found her man. It doesn’t take long before Bethany realizes Justin is not like Connor, who adapted to the quaintness of this strict, faith-based community. When Justin realizes just what might be involved in staying away from the carnal pleasures of the near future outside world, he seeks only to return. But will he take their secret closeted existence and its treasure with him?

It’s never really a question of how much The Land will be affected by outside influence; the story of whether The Land’s principles will affect Justin is a question readers can decide. The real tale, though, is how this pristine community lives out its original moral premise. The concept of protecting women vs. allowing them to act as a critical asset to life is explored with an underlying power that subtly defies the delicacy that is threaded throughout the narrative.

Grow along with Bethany as she learns the art of adulthood in this lovely story. Readers of gentle Christian fantasy fiction will enjoy this addition to The Land Uncharted series. I know, it’s supposed to be a trilogy, but we can convince the author to write more, can’t we?

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Land faces even more danger...

You really can't go wrong with the Uncharted Series. They are the best of two genres, dystopian novels written like historicals. The marriage of two such disparate genres proves this young author's talent. And both elements serve to interest readers even further. Keely Brooke Keith knows exactly how to hook her readers in and keep them there, anxiously turning the next page.

Uncharted Inheritance features Bethany, the youngest Colburn sibling, a sheltered and naïve young woman wanting to stretch her wings. One of the signs of a good author is to engage the emotions of the reader, and mine certainly were with this book. By turns I was frustrated with Bethany for her determined naivety and with the adults around her over-protecting her when I felt they should have have spoken honestly with her about the dangers she faces.

I really enjoyed checking in with my favorite character from the Land and finding out what they were doing. I also liked how the author gave some further hints as to how the Land is protected from sight. I had a hard time putting the book down as the Land faces it's greatest danger yet.

Keely Brooke Keith has penned a truly enjoyable tale filled with danger, romance, and set in an exotic location. Uncharted Inheritance, and the rest of the series, are a must read, whether you love dystopian or historical novels.

(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my review. All opinions are my own.)

[Brent Soderstrum · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book through GoodReads First Read program.

This is book 3 of Keith's Uncharted series. I recommend you read the first two before tackling this one. This picks up the story of the Land and its inhabitants who include ancestors of the original 1861 settlers of the island the rest of the can't see and Connor, who 3 years ago parachuted to the island after his fighter plane malfunctioned. Conner married Lydia Colburn in book one. Book two dealt with the relationship of Levi Colburn and his soon to be wife Mandy. This book covers the relationship of youngest Colburn daughter Beth and her friend from childhood, Everett.

Well Beth and Everett are now 18 and people think they should be courting and end up married, including Everett. Beth doesn't think she is ready to be courted. Beth then finds Justin Mercer washed up on the beach. Justin is Conner's friend. He has been searching for the Land for 3 years. Justin brings disease with him from the outside world to the Land. He and Beth must be quarantined for 10 days in Lydia's medical cottage. Justin is not a gentleman and Beth is intrigued by Justin. How will this effect her relationship with Everett? Will the disease spread? Will more like Justin and Conner come to the Land and destroy its innocence?

Enjoyable calm relaxing read. No intense action. May be a little slow for me but still worth the read.

[Savanna Kaiser · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book delivered all the intrigue and romance I’ve come to expect and enjoy from the Uncharted series. I was happy to return to The Land and its friendly inhabitants and follow Bethany through her growing pains to finding her true love. Uncharted Inheritance is mysterious and magnetic. Readers will inevitably be drawn to its unique world.

There were some fresh twists I had not expected. The outsider coming to the hidden land added a lot to the story. Not to mention it created quite the triangle as Bethany finds herself torn between her faithful friend and the intriguing stranger. I couldn’t quite guess the ending.

I will say I found myself frustrated with a few characters and their actions at certain moments. Do you ever get exasperated with fictional people? Please tell me I’m not the only one! ;) Some parts were a bit predictable to me and the ending felt a little drawn out, but otherwise it was enjoyable from start to finish.

I do want to mention that it’s not really a “stand-alone” book. You’ll appreciate the story a whole lot more if you’ve read the first two in the series. They build well upon each other. I’m very curious what’s still to come. There were definite hints of something more. I’m a fan of this series. It’s fun. It’s fresh. And it’s memorable.

Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book three in the Uncharted trilogy. This story focusses on the third Colburn child, Bethany. It is a coming of age story, written like a historical romance in a science fiction setting - which sounds a bit crazy, but Keely pulls it off amazingly.

The suspense from the first two books comes to a head. Justin, who we have had teasers from in the previous books epilogues, finally arrives on The Land. I always knew he would make it and had certain expectations of what I thought would happen when he got there. Once I started reading this book though, I also bonded with Everett. I kept flicking back and forth about who I wanted Bethany to choose. You will have to read it to find out! But I was very happy with how it all played out.

One concept that I enjoyed seeing explained was how a modern man saw the women of The Land as being controlled by the men and not being equal. The women of The Land didn't feel they were being controlled and felt equal to the men, but acknowledged their differences. A man protecting a woman was an act of love not of power.

I listened to the audiobook edition, which I received free in exchange for an honest review. The narrator of this book spoke clearly and at a good pace.

[Miranda A. Uyeh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a simple story, but with a lot to offer outside entertainment. Through Bethany and Everett’s story, one comes to understand the importance of values in a way that emphasizes acceptance of one’s heritage. In reading this book, I came face-to-face with the known fact that moral standard is relative—to different people, it means different things. Cross-referencing this with a particular character left me disappointed. I’d followed hints of this character throughout books #1 and #2, and so had hoped for better for/from this character. Unfortunately, it didn’t turn out as I’d prayed. That’s not to say I don’t understand Keith’s reasons for allotting this particular character the role that she did, because in doing so, it brought out the theme beautifully and poignantly.
Of worthy mention is the fact that Keith masterfully managed to blend a historical world with a contemporary and techno sci-fi, without any time-travel.
Overall, another well-done piece by Keith.

[Cindi Klemm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Keely writes with such a flow that you end up losing track of time! Personally I would love to visit and or move to the country called Land!
Another stranger manages to find his way to the Land and brings an outsider illness with him. One of the local girls who found him also has to be quarantined to ensure that the disease does not spread. Is romance in the air? And of course the local girls find him attractive but does the stranger want to conform to the ways of the Land and respect the laws? It was interesting to read as you find out that one persons idea of an utopia is not necessarily anothers! Fascinating book, clean, mysterious, romance, intrigue ..yep,once again Keely has managed to fit all if that in her story!
this is a Must read,

I. Was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion

[Rod · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has a little of everything and for everyone. There is romance for the ladies, some male ego posturing for the guys, questions about life for everyone, and who has ultimate control for all of us to ponder. It is possible that some type of colony (now an organized civilization) has grown out of the problems and worries of the pre-Civil War days. The little twists and turns make you read on and on into the night to see who does what to whom and wins where? This author has captured a small corner of the world's mystery and what-ifs. She has the makings of a multi-book series and I am looking forward to reading all of them. This book is a great follow-up the the first two in the Uncharted series.

[Annalise Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved all three of the books in this series, but Uncharted Inheritance was my favorite. This coming of age story drew me in from the beginning and compelled me to keep reading. Keely is able to envision a scene and describe it with such clarity and vividness, capturing so perfectly the personalities of her characters.

Throughout the entire series, I have been able to relate to one or more characteristics of the central heroine. In the case of Uncharted Inheritance's central character, Bethany, who couldn't relate to the dawning of true love, the awkward lessons of new adulthood, and the dreadful disappointments of encountering deception for the first time.

[Joyful · Rating 5 out of 5]

This third book in the Unchartered series is a suspenful romance in a pre-Civil War era with some sci-fi and history. A little bit of something for everyone. It is in a hidden colony full of twists and turns, romance and intrigue that keeps you reading. What happens to Levi and Mandy? Will Justin find the colony and Connor? What happens to the Colburn family in this concluding story? Who really has control? This is a story of heart break, hope, love, and forgiveness. I recommend this book and author. I was given this book for an honest review.

[Linda Rainey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncharted Inheritance by Keely Brooke Keith is the 3rd book in the series about the Land.The Land an island protected from the outside world by atmospheric phenomena.
The Land was settled by colonists from America fleeing the Civil War.
This story is set 7 generations later.
I love the blend of sci fi, inspiration,and some romance.
The charaters are believable and the story flows well.
The main character, Bethany faces coming of age and the allure of forbidden fruiti.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.

[Joyful · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncharted Inheritance by Keely Brooke Keith is the 3rd book in the series about the Land. The Land is an island protected from the outside world by atmospheric phenomena and has been settled by colonists from America fleeing the Civil War. I love the blend of science fiction, inspiration,faith, coming of age, some romance and the allure of forbidden fruit. The author did a great job with the characters being believable, and the story being written so that it flows well with the setting being 7 generations later. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.