Book Review: Lone Star Trail

  
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review.

Initially I was interested in reading the second book in the "Texas Trails" series, "Captive Trail," but I knew I needed to start at the beginning with "Lone Star Trail," so I selected this book.

"Lone Star Trail" follows the crossing paths of two families, one long-established in Texas, the other newly arrived from Germany. It tackles themes of discrimination, death, broken relationships, and faith, all while weaving a slow-growing romance between the two main characters.

The majority of the book takes place on a horse ranch in 1800s Victoria, Texas, which is run by headstrong 20-something Jud Morgan. After his father died fighting for Texas' freedom from Mexico, Jud is hard-hearted toward new German settlers who have taken up residence in his town. He then meets the Fleischers, a family fresh off a boat from Germany, needing help he is reluctant to give. But the one bright spot is Wande Fleischer, a young woman who quickly captures Jud's attention and causes him to reconsider his feelings toward Germans.

The book is a quick, easy read, and will pull you in with Texas history, a little bit of drama, and some exciting scenes. Occasionally the story line and dialogue seemed disjointed, some parts did not work to further the story, and the ending feels abrupt. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, romance, and the old west. It is an encouraging story of perseverance, hope, and love.