Waltz in the Wilderness by Kathleen Denly

She’s desperate to find her missing father. His conscience demands he risk all to help. 

Synopsis:

Eliza Brooks is haunted by her role in her mother’s death, so she’ll do anything to find her missing pa—even if it means sneaking aboard a southbound ship. When those meant to protect her abandon and betray her instead, a family friend’s unexpected assistance is a blessing she can’t refuse.

Daniel Clarke came to California to make his fortune, and a stable job as a San Francisco carpenter has earned him more than most have scraped from the local goldfields. But it’s been four years since he left Massachusetts and his fiancé is impatient for his return. Bound for home at last, Daniel Clarke finds his heart and plans challenged by a tenacious young woman with haunted eyes. Though every word he utters seems to offend her, he is determined to see her safely returned to her father. Even if that means risking his fragile engagement.

When disaster befalls them in the remote wilderness of the Southern California mountains, true feelings are revealed, and both must face heart-rending decisions. But how to decide when every choice before them leads to someone getting hurt?

  Waltz in the Wilderness

My Thoughts:

Right from the very first chapter, these characters invited me to join their story and waltzed their way into my heart. I enjoyed my time spent within the pages of this engaging book and I honestly hope that you get to enjoy this story as well!

Eliza Brooks has more than her fair share of rough edges. Prickly could be a word that most would use to describe her. She keeps others at a distance and doesn’t let people get close. Eliza has experienced more than her fair share of loss, everyone she’s ever let in, has either died or left her behind. I loved the character journey and growth that Eliza makes. A reminder that everyone we meet has a story, and is hurting. That everyone needs our grace and kindness.

With an engaging plot, dynamic characters and unexpected dangers, you won’t be able to put this book down! More often than not I found myself talking to these characters as if they could hear me! Kathleen Denly brings not only the setting but the characters to life and invites to the reader to join the story!

I eagerly look forward to more page-turning adventures in the Chaparral Hearts series and more fantastic stories from this author in the future!

(I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)

Favorite Quote:

About the Author:

  Kathleen Denly lives in sunny Southern California with her loving husband, four young children, and two cats. As a member of the adoption and foster community, children in need are a cause dear to her heart and she finds they make frequent appearances in her stories. When she isn’t writing, researching, or caring for children, Kathleen spends her time reading, visiting historical sites, hiking, and crafting.

Waltz in the Wilderness is Kathleen’s debut novel and the first in a series of three stand-alone historical Christian romance novels connected by secondary characters and their beautiful Southern California setting.

Kathleen would love it if you visited her website at KathleenDenly.com. You can also connect with her on social media:

Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Author Page | Armchair Adventure Krew

  Waltz in the Wilderness

To see some of the photos that inspired Waltz in the Wilderness, follow Kathleen on Pinterest.

Be sure to check out the fun Author Interview and enter the GIVEAWAY!