“There was obviously more to the honest life than merely staying out of prison,” muses Sam in the opening chapters of Emma Craig’s Sierra Ransom. But he’s determined to change the direction of his life, and working for Zee seems like a good first step. Meanwhile, Zenobia hides hurts of her own behind the sharp responses of her brusque exterior. Set in the time of the California Gold Rush, Emma Craig’s Sierra Ransom recreates a convincing mining town of tents, dreams and mud, peopling it with great characters, and adding compelling drama. The issues of the day—mistreatment of women, mistreatment of strangers, hard lives, hard living, and refusal to accept change or difference—are as relevant now as they were then. But humorous dialog and warm relationships keep this story light and make it a thoroughly enjoyable read.

The scenery’s beautiful. Gold is scarce. Weather is fierce. And justice is harsh. But this is a small frontier mudhole, seeking to become a town, accepting the lost for what they can give, and giving strength to the weak with generous affection. A story well-rooted in history, with characters full of humor and dry wit (and laugh-out-loud dialog as the swearing protagonist strives to become a good man). Women’s issues are nicely addressed. Faith is a lowkey background to lives often wounded by religion’s harsh strictures and condemnation. And thought-provoking insights make this more than just a fun romantic read.

A tale of redemption and love, a great recreation of a great time in history, and a pleasing romance, Sierra Ransom succeeds in being enjoyable, informative, and even uplifting as well, and is highly recommended.

Disclosure: I won a copy. Lucky me! ( )