Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis

Captive Trail, by Susan Page Davis, is the second book of The Texas Trail series. Like the first book, this centers on a family in mid-1800 Texas. The Morgan family has a different author and I love her writing voice.

Let me tell you a bit about the story. Taabe Waipu is a Comanche captive. She escapes to avoid marrying a man she doesn't love. She searches for her white family, but on her travels, her horse falls and she's injured and alone. Ned Bright, a stagecoach driver happens along and finds her. He brings her to a mission where nuns take care of her and help her recover.

Okay, if that isn't enough to suck you in and make you want to read this book, then you're dead. 

All kidding aside, this was a great story, filled with major character growth. (Not to mention history about Texan life in the 1800's.) I loved the main character, Taabe Waipu, and admired her tenacity and courage.

The author, Susan Page Davis, has a beautiful writer's voice, smooth storytelling chops, and the ability to make characters come alive in my head.

4 stars

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The options I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR Part 255.

Lone Star Trail by Darlene Franklin

Lone Star Trail is the first book I've read by the author, Darlene Franklin. I'm intrigued enough by the first in the Texas Trail Series to continue on with the other five books. Time will tell if I enjoy the other stories as much…or more.

Lone Star Trail is about German immigrant family, the Fleishers, who leave their home to pursue a better life in the new Union state of Texas in mid-1800. However, life doles out difficult times for this family. A Texan, Jud Morgan, is initially hateful toward the immigrants, but ends up helping them. His views about immigrants gradually change as the story progresses. I like the believability of this happening. It was well developed. Kudos to the author.

The main premise, from what I gather, is about looking past prejudice, and learning about those who seem different and seeing life through their eyes—and hearts.

The book is full of history, which I adore, and the faith lessons are not shoved down your throat. A great, clean read, without being preachy.

On the flip side, the secondary story line wasn't necessary. In my humble, yet honest, opinion, it actually took away from the main plot.

Wrapping this up, I will read Captive Trail by another author I haven't read: Susan Page Davis. It's the next book in this multi-authored series. 

Though I enjoyed Lone Star Trail, I hope the next story stays focused on the main plot without branching off and thinning out the story. 

3 stars

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The options I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.