4.5 Stars ( )

What happens when two families, who have experienced tragedy and loss, and are from very different backgrounds are thrown together?

It is 1845, the Morgans are Texans through and through. They raise the famous Morgan Horses on their ranch, the Running M Ranch and have fought hard and sacrificed much to be the successful ranchers that they are. The Fleischer family have traveled from Germany and just arrived in Texas. This foreign land has taken much from them in the short time they have been here. Jud Morgan carries bitterness and distrust for the Germans who have begun to overtake "his" Texas. But his eyes are opened to the Lord's love for all people when he accepts the friendship of the Fleischers. Especially when the eldest daughter, Wande, catches his eye. It becomes apparent that the Lord brought these two families together. To work and live side by side to survive the untamed land of the "Lone Star State".



I couldn't put this book down! Depending on the personal events of our family, it usually takes me a little while to complete a book, no matter how interesting it is. But with this book, I couldn't help it. The dishes piled up, the laundry went unwashed and I read every second I could. Darlene Franklin captured my attention from the start. I always enjoy reading about this particular time era, when families are venturing into unknown land to build a new life. And Lone Star Trail did not disappoint. I look forward to reading the rest of the Texas Trails series and continuing the Morgan family adventure!

As part of their Blogger Review program I received a free copy of Lone Star Trail from Moody Publishers. All opinions expressed are mine alone. ( )

Sometimes inspirational romance can be a little heavy handed or "over the top" (i.e. the spirit of the Lord told me to forgive my rapist and offer him supper, etc.), but this managed to be inspirational without scaring away the non or mildly religious crowd.

This historical romance follows a family of German immigrants as they settle in Texas, the newest state in the Union. Things begin badly when one of the children, Ulla, dies upon arrival. As they try to move inland their wagon breaks and they have to rely upon the kindness of a strange family. Even though it is Christmas, the Morgan family takes in the Fleischer family until they can find a house to live in. Jud, the oldest son (and head of the Morgan Ranch since his father's death) resents the immigrants coming to Texas and snatching up all the land. His view begins to change though, when he notices how pretty the eldest German daughter is. It just goes to show that offering Christian charity and hospitality can open many doors. An uplifting and romantic read.

I received this book for free in return for my honest, unbiased opinion. ( )