Review: A great read.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 1, 2014
Let me first say that I am one of those people who has always loved the idea of pioneer life (well, in theory not in practice).  I grew up watching Little House on the Prairie to the point of obsession, Young Riders and yes, even Dr. Quinn.  That fascination has waned a bit as I am more than thankful to be alive and kicking in the 21st century.  Oddly the historical genre has not been a frequent visitor to my TBR.  However, after reading so many books where the sex often outweighs the plotline, there is something about the simplicity of a pioneer courtship that is actually very appealing.  Let me first say though that while I appreciate the “simplicity” of the times (in contrast to our technology fueled world), this is not exactly a simple story – you experience a beautiful love story set against the backdrop of changing times and racial tensions in rural Montana.Lily, the beautiful school teacher with the personal mission of giving every child an education and Christian the resident Justice of the Peace, have an instant connection.  And while wonderfully contentious at first, the chemistry builds to that point neither can ignore – and it is surprisingly steamy. But lay on the virtues of society in 1897, coupled with the tensions of recent events in town, and the small fact that Lily herself is Native American, and you have a story that is ripe with conflict and totally moves you.  While you can say the primary focus is the love story of Christian and Lily, the huge social conversation that takes place throughout this book is impossible to ignore.  Merry Farmer did a beautiful job here with the racial tension and difficult journey to acceptance.  Equally as poignant was the difference one person can make in the mind of a child with regard to equality and opportunity for all – Lily’s mission.  This may not appeal to everybody, but I thoroughly enjoyed the book for the emotions and messages it delivered and the pleasant return to my “Little House” days.  Now I think I may just read the rest of the series.