About the Book

After a whiskey still explosion destroys her home and nearly her life, Rebecca Packwood and her father must leave Missouri and her dear friends behind. After crossing The Oregon Trail, she sets out to discover her family’s secret history and to forge a home and community out of the raw farm land of Eagle Creek, Oregon Country, never suspecting a ruthless enemy is seeking to thwart her plans.

Hard-working banker’s son, Clark Sutherland, thought the toughest test he would face was getting out from underneath his father’s thumb. The last thing he expected was to be penniless, homeless, and smitten with a shy, dark-eyed stranger. With nothing to offer her, will he find a way to support himself and still pursue his dreams before they’re pulled apart?

When a man in shadows sets his eyes on their coveted prize, danger descends. Rebecca and Clark must act to protect the desires of their hearts before harm befalls them all. Will they learn to trust their future to the God who heals and sets the lonely in families?

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In My Opinion

In The Rock by Cara Grandle, readers first meet Rebecca during a tragedy—one that she takes in so much stride that you know right away this isn’t the first time she’s had to deal with something horrible. In fact, she’s lived a lot of hard life.

When her three friends entered the picture, I got a clear idea of their personalities right away (and I’m very interested in what one of their stories will be). As the ladies make a pact before Rebecca’s trek from Missouri to Oregon, the power of their friendship is obvious.

And then there’s Clark. He’s a fun character. The only boy in a sea of sisters who feels smothered by them and their fussing and matchmaking attempts as well as his father’s approach to business. Clark is a character who adds a levity to Rebecca’s heartache.

The story had a slow start and the couple doesn’t come together for 100-ish pages, but once they do, the pace picks up. I enjoyed the way Rebecca discovered the home she so desperately sought and the way Clark cared for her. The way everyone on the farm worked together to make it run successfully was also wonderful.

All in all, a good debut that makes me want to read about the next sister of the porcelain doll.

Disclosure statement: I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Instagram Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, as well as two containers of tea and a package of Mammoth Sunflower seeds both grown by the author! (US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Instagram is not affiliated with nor responsible for this giveaway. Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on April 17, 2023.)

Visit Instagram and follow the instructions to enter.