Review Detail

When I was in middle school and high school, I used to devour historical fiction by Janette Oke. I must have read the Love Comes Softly series twenty times. Ms. Gwyn's debut reminds me of Oke's stories: well-developed characters with distinct agendas, careful attention to historical detail, and a sweet love story that makes readers cheer for the happily ever after we're sure will eventually be delivered.

The worldbuilding in this book is flawless. I felt I was living in the hustle and bustle of an early California town, with its community spirit, mercantiles, and horse-drawn wagons. Even an outlaw or two made an appearance! It was so much fun to explore early California throughout the pages.

I really liked the characters. I wanted them to find their happily ever after. I laughed several times, and sat at the edge of my seat telling them to just hurry up and KISS already even though they were determined to ignore me for at least a few more chapters.

This is an inspirational story, but I never felt "preached" to. Instead, the Christian elements are seamlessly woven into the story in a way that feels very authentic and lovely. This is a perfect book for those who love sweet, historical romances!