Westward Hearts

Author: Melody Carlson
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers, 2012
Pages: 352
Rating: Recommend

Synopsis: Kentucky, 1854 - Elizabeth Martin has mourned her husband's death for three years, but now she feels ready to fulfill the dream they had shared - to take their two children west. The dream becomes reality when her middle-aged parents and bachelor brother surprise her with the news that they want to go as well.

After converting three of their best wagons to prairie schooners and thoroughly outfitting them, the little part travels from Kentucky to Kansas City, where they join a substantial wagon train. Elizabeth soon finds herself being drawn to the group's handsome guide, Eli Kincaide.

The long journal and deepening relationships challenge the travelers to their core, and Eli's mysterious past leaves Elizabeth with more questions than answers. She knows there's no turning back, but she wonders, "What have I gotten myself into?"

Review: I love reading Oregon Trail novels, and this was no exception. However, it is set in Melody Carlson's usual, everyone gets a happy ending tone. Probably not a realistic representation of life on the trail, but a good story and enjoyable novel. 

This is the first book in the Homeward on the Oregon Trail series, and I plan to continue reading.