If you missed any of the tour stops visit the A Buss From Lafayette Tour Page for a complete list of participating blogs.
About the Book
Recommended Ages: 10-17 | Number of Pages: 266 | Publisher: BQB Publishing
Publication Date: April 22, 2016

A Leisure Moment
Literary Chanteuse
Java John Z’s
Bound 2 Escape
Stitch Says
Laurisa White Reyes
Several bloggers posted an excerpt:
Cherry Mischievous
K and A Children’s Book Reviews
The Bravest Squirrel Series
Mother Daughter Book Reviews
Books Direct
Christina Dwivedi
Christy’s Cozy Corners
Paper Dragons
BeachBoundBooks
An interview with Dorothea Jensen was posted by:
Deal Sharing Aunt
"Middle grade girls will immediately identify and relate with Clara. Despite the historical time gap, Clara’s life isn’t so different from theirs; Chores, boys, growing womanhood and greater responsibilities. Meanwhile, without even realizing it they will pick up an excellent education on the primary figures of the American Revolution, as well what life was like for kids their age in the early 1800’s." - I Read What You Write
"What I liked most was how Clara seemed to resolve her issues with Priscilla, Hetty, and Dickon in such realistic ways." - Girl of 1000 Wonders
"Entertaining and educational read." - Kay LaLone I Love Books
"This book was such a fun read! ... This is the first book I've read by this author but it won't be my last!" - Mel’s Shelves
"Summed up, this is a marvelous historical fiction story. The characters are kept true to their time frame while, at the same time, are portrayed in a way modern day teens will have no trouble relating to. The 'history lesson' glides effortlessly into the main plot, insuring an educational delight." - Bookworm for Kids
"The prose of Ms. Jensen is vivid and very rich, making it easy to recreate the whole period of time in my mind. This is a great way to get younger tweens and early teens to LIVE the history of the American Revolution, instead of just learning the facts about it. I recommend this novel wholeheartedly to anyone who loves historical novels." - Mami Tales
"I found the blend of the story and the historical elements to flow seamlessly. It is evident that this author did her research and it made the story feel that much more authentic." - Adalinc for Life
"Along with snippets of history, it offers just enough teen struggle and budding romance to keep YA readers and history buffs turning the page to find out what happens to Clara." - Cat’s Corner
"Dorothea’s story has a nice balance of history, suspense, scandal, twists, scenery, and memorable characters. I recommend her book for all ages" - Rebecca Krusee
My Review
It's the summer of 1825 and General Lafayette is on a farewell tour as the Nation's Guest. People are lining up in the big cities just to catch a glimpse of this remarkable man who helped secure America's freedom from the British.
At the same time, in the small town of Hopkinton a girl named Clara Hargraves is celebrating her fourteenth birthday. However, Clara's celebrating is cut short when she's informed by her stepmother, who was/is also her aunt, that she is now a young woman and must start behaving as one. No more riding astride, no more wearing her brother's breeches, and certainly no more swimming in the pond. Clara's not sure what's worse, her red hair or her stepmother who seems to be trying to ruin her life. On top of all this she's been getting a funny feeling every time she's around her brother's friend, and her previous tormentor, Dickon Weeks and she's just discovered her hideous cousin Hetty is coming for a visit. Could things get any worse? Clara's about to find out and what unfolds just may change her life.
I am a big fan of historical fiction and was thrilled at the opportunity of reviewing A Buss from Lafayette and I must say the author does not disappoint. The rich detail and vivid storytelling make it easy to fall into this story. I felt as though I was transported back in time to experience life with Clara and could feel the excitement in the air as the town was a buzz with the talk of Lafayette.
The author also makes her characters easy to relate to which gives the story a sense of timelessness. It's easy to understand Clara's emotional struggles of accepting her stepmother, her nervousness around a certain young man, and her desire to fit in when all her red hair does is stand out. Readers will also be able to identify with the stepmother who wants to be loved and welcomed by her stepchildren, but is also dealing with the pain of losing her sister.
I think one of my favorite aspects of the story is how the author is able to weave a history lesson throughout the daily lives of her characters. Sitting around the dinner table, visiting in town, or chatting after church seem so natural that it's easy to become engrossed in the story and forget you're learning.
Kudos to Dorothea Jensen for a splendidly told tale. I highly recommend picking up a copy.
About the Author: Dorothea Jensen

For more information about Dorothea and her books, please visit http://www.dorotheajensen.com/.