Once again, Heidi brings a book with strongly defined characters and a plot that grabs the reader and spiritual lessons that pack a punch for the lead characters. What I have enjoyed about this author’s fiction writing is she doesn’t just write a great, entertaining story, she pushes the reader to also reflect and to evaluate.
Loretta, the youngest of two siblings and her elder sister Annaliese have lost their parents. Loretta is a naïve, angry, immature, and spoiled young girl. Her father it seems indulged and she was allowed lots of freedom, fun, and outdoors. Her sister was her mother’s helper and Loretta felt her sister was weak, limited, dull, and tedious. When her parent’s died, Loretta’s easy-going life ended, money was tight, and Loretta blames it all on Annaliese. Their situation doesn’t improved, in fact, becomes financially impossible. Nell lets Loretta know she has accepted a proposal from a man in Montana and then, her sister shocks her with the news that they will be moving to Montana, which means a train and then via a wagon train. Loretta continues her angry, spoiled, and vindictive ways. When her sister drowns in a river crossing, Loretta thinks that Nell’s drowning is her fault as she “willed it to happen.” For me, this was a real low point, a sad portion of the story, especially as Loretta starts reading Nell’s diary. The journal reading was the start of Loretta seeing her real, selfish self and the point she starts growing up. It was at this point my opinion of Loretta began to warm. Eventually Loretta meets Mr. and Mrs. Harrison, and Harley. The Harrison’s were fabulous characters, the type of people who shine Christ and share the gospel with others. They tenderly shepherded Loretta and accepted her as a daughter and helps her grow spiritually. Harley, their son also receives their cares and prayers. The following quote came from the epilogue and was spoken by Loretta, “God and this family has changed me. I tried to create my own destiny, but I’m much happier with the plans God had in mind.”
The writing framed the character of Loretta as a truly unlikeable person and effectively turned Loretta into a sympathetic character, hard to do unless effectively done. This was a great five-star book.
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About the author
The ride of your life
The author's writing style captivated my attention and lured me to the next scene. Join in on the wagon train as the adventure unfolds. You will be on the edge of your seat until the end. I was amazed at how seamlessly various themes wove throughout the fabric of this story. Not only were the themes practical but prevalent in most people's lives. Do any of us ever feel good enough? Does something from our past haunt us to this day? What if I had not done this or that? Ever said words you regret? I'm sure we all have. Thankfully, there is a power to redeem our poor choices. I was glad to be reminded in this story that God's "purpose will always prevail in the end." He will use our circumstances for His good, no matter how egregious. I'm hopeful for a better future than I could ever have imagined on my own. Moving to an unknown place and starting anew can be daunting. Feeling like an imposter to be accepted or fit in can be draining. This story encourages us to be our true self, authentic to who we really are. Those looking for love can rest assured that they will find a mate that'll be just right for you, to help you through life's obstacles as their own. I petition you to take a moment to read this book, you will be glad you did. I received this book ahead of time as an ARC reader and was not required or persuaded to give a good review. However, I am glad to share this book truly exceeded my expectations.
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