MY REVIEW:
“A Home in Drayton Valley” is historical fiction set in the late 1800’s. After her aunt’s death, Tarsie Raines sees little hope for anything but a miserable life in New York City. She is especially concerned for her good friend Mary whose health is failing fast. Dreaming of a new life in Kansas after reading about it in a book, Tarsie encourages her friend to make the trip. Mary’s husband agrees but only to escape gambling debts he cannot pay. The unlikely group set out for Kansas and encounter multiple trials and tragedy along the way.
Although somewhat slow-moving at times, “A Home in Drayton Valley” was interesting and held my attention well. I did not particularly care for the character of Joss but will admit that I was happy to see his change of heart and attitude by the end of the story. Tarsie was a strong character whose loyalty and determination could be admired. Personally, I thought the highlights of the story were the scenes that involved Simon and Ruth. Simon’s wisdom pretty much overshadowed everything else for me.
As always, I enjoyed the spiritual lessons woven throughout Sawyer’s story and how well she illustrated that even the worst person can change with God’s help.
This book was provided for review by
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A dream of a better life…A tragedy aboard a wagon train…
A tentative agreement…
Will it lead to love for two seeking hearts?
As their funds dwindle and nothing goes as planned, will they give up and go their separate ways? Or will God use their time in Drayton Valley in a way they never expected?
Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of nineteen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women’s fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and six grandchildren. She invites you to visit her Web site at www.kimvogelsawyer.com for more information.
