Wednesday, March 14, 2012

On My Nightstand - Where Wildflowers Bloom by Ann Shorey


The Civil War meant loss for Faith Lindberg. With her father, brother, and Royal Baxter, the man she wanted to marry, taken from her, she yearns to travel west to Oregon and start a new life. Noble Springs, Missouri holds nothing but sorrowful memories.

The only thing stopping her plans is her grandfather. He's loathe to sell the family mercantile and leave the only home he's ever known.

When Royal Baxter shows up alive and well, she's overjoyed. He woos her with promises of moving west, but her grandfather is less than enthusiastic.

This was my first sampling of Ann Shorey's work, and I enjoyed it very much. She had me a nervous wreck by the end of the book, wondering what course Faith would take.

Question for Writers: Do you keep your readers biting their nails through the whole manuscript or give them a reprieve every now and then? Let's hear your thoughts.

Question for Readers: What kind of books do you prefer: those that keep your heart pumping faster than a high-speed train or something a little more relaxing? Why?


11 comments:

Dorothy said...

As a reader I like different paced stories at different times. If life presents itself with too many heart racing moments, I may wish to escape somewhere slower and entertaining. On holidays, I can read almost anything :)

Jessica Nelson said...

I prefer heart pumping ones to read, but I'm not sure how well I write them. :-)

Karen Lange said...

Sounds like an interesting book; thanks for the review! When I read, I think I prefer a combination of action and a relaxing pace. I read to relax, I don't want to be all tense then. :)

Jeanette Levellie said...

This sounds like a lovely read, Susan--thanks for the review.

I like adventure and a few heart throbs, but mostly I need to relax when I read, so I prefer books that don't put my on a roller coaster!

Loree Huebner said...

I like a combo of both when I read.

I actually have this book on my TBR list. I look forward to the read.

Terri Tiffany said...

I like a little of both--I need a break from the heart pumping ones and like to just sink into slower pace awhile.

Ann Shorey said...

Thank you for the review, Susan. So glad Faith's dilemma kept you in suspense. :)
Blessings,
Ann

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Dorothy - Good point. When Beloved was ill, the last thing I wanted to read was a medical novel!

Hi Jess - I do like the excitement and tension of a well-written story.

Hi Karen - I need a breather every now and then, but then the action better pick up. :)

Hi Jen - Yes, when life is full of roller coaster moments, it's nice to slow it down with a relaxing read.

Hi Loree - Oh, I think you'll enjoy it a lot!

Hi Terri - Another vote for the combo. :)

Hi Ann - Yes, you did a good job with the tension. Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting.

Blessings,
Susan

Aritha Vermeulen said...

Sounds like a good book.

Chatty Crone said...

I think I like my heart pumping! sandie

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Aritha -

Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Have a nice weekend!

Hi Chatty -

Thanks for weighing in on the matter. :)

Blessings,
Susan