Chaparral Hearts Waltz in the Wilderness, Book 1, (Paperback)

Waltz in the Wilderness by Kathleen Denly has my feel-good nod of approval. Not only did it satisfy my reading soul, but it gave me real substance to chew on as I contemplated the characters and their response to untenable circumstances. I fell in love with strong-headed, one-purpose Eliza Brooks and Daniel Clark, her uncle's employee who becomes her reluctant escort. Other characters I couldn't stand at all, while I wondered how the people around them could stomach them. The novel is pretty predictable, though fun until certain secondary characters decide to take over the story as if they don't like where the author was taking them. One character challenges Eliza to compare her motives in her search for her father with Scripture directives. Then we are allowed to see what Eliza will do about her willfulness that she has until now labeled ”responsibility.” I got so deeply into the story that my mind was boggled by the weight these characters bore, who stood up and developed a backbone and changed the course of the story. I really wanted to know more about what life is like for them, and perhaps we'll find out. I appreciated clear explanations of faith, themes of feeling undeserving of God's love, and the need to truly trust Him to care for ourselves and others. It obviously affected the players' daily lives. This story does include to some degree the sad effects slavery and prejudice have on people who are different from their abusers. I loved this book and I highly recommend it. If you like reading Miralee Ferrell or Misty Beller, you will like Kathleen Denly. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit. This does not influence my opinions, for which I am solely responsible.