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Review: Home on the Range

Home on the Range book cover on blue background

It's always a pleasure to discover new Christian fiction to me, especially historical fiction that helps me learn more about how people persevered during difficult times and were able to overcome their circumstances through God's help. Home on the Range by Taryn Oakley is a story that falls into this and is set in late 19th century Kansas amid the bustling growth and travels along the railway.

Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Book Synopsis

In the land of promise, can two lives fulfill one legacy with love?

1891. Lenna Adler—destitute but not desperate—becomes the prize bride in a drunken poker game to one of Chicago’s lecherous men, a man who will stop at nothing to collect what he’s owed. In a hastened escape, Lenna boards the Atchison, Topeka, and Sante Fe Railway to Verona, Kansas determined to carry out her parents’ dream, with or without God’s help. The reputation at the Elton Hotel and the small town provide safety and peace for Lenna at last, not to mention a budding fancy with an honest cowboy.

Lee Ellis has ranched the Flint Hills since he was a boy. The rolling landscape dotted with cattle is his paradise. All that’s left is finding someone to share it with, and he’s sure God’s brought her on the noon train. But when forced to confront a past he’d rather forget, his character and trust with his newfound love, Lenna, are at stake. Will she be able to lean on her recently awakened faith and forgive his family’s history, believing the man he is...or will she soon be on the next train out of town?

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

Joining Lenna Addler in her escape to a better life, I appreciate that I had a front-row seat to her bravery and determination to follow her parents’ legacy. The sprinkles of German were a reminder that her family sacrificed so much in order for her to experience the American dream. As a result, it was easy to admire her persistence in mastering her work at the Elton Hotel while navigating challenging relationships. Having her encounter Lee Ellis—an earnest man shrouded in mystery yet desiring to do what is right—was a delight as it was evident that they both helped each other walk in integrity before God.

In reading the author's notes, I enjoyed learning more about the meticulous standards of hotel waitstaff and how hard Leena worked to serve others. Although she encountered hardships, loss, and threats, her attitude was refreshing as she and Lee worked through issues of trust and forgiveness. Coupled with powerful sermons at church, this book was a reminder that God does not have us walk through the darkness alone. If you enjoy reading about the hospitality industry, especially in late 19th century America, this sweet romance balances the toil of pioneer life with the joy of God's ultimate provision.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📱
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍
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