This is a sweet story about Alda who is trying to do the right thing for her family but she doesn't always go about it in the right way. She's a stubborn girl and wants to do things her way...hence, trouble seems to find her every step of the way.

Alda decides to drive a pack of mules 1500 miles to earn enough money to save the farm after her mother's death. Her father really isn't any help at all and I found myself thinking he needed to "man up" more than once! lol

Thankfully, she meets Cord, a bounty hunter, who makes it his mission to try and keep her out of trouble and help her as she goes on this mission. I thought he was a really great guy and I loved that he had so much concern and care for Alda.

This book is a journey across country but, more than that, it's a journey of faith. I really liked seeing Alda gain a strong faith and the growth we see in her as a result. I really enjoyed the romance of this story but also the twists and turns of the story line. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.

*This book was provided to me by Celebrate Lit. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book. ( )

This is a sweet historical fiction story. It was a crazy idea for Alda to try to cross the country in 1883 by herself with a group of donkeys. I like how Cord meets Alda and I enjoyed how they interact with each other. There is a bit of romance and a bit of intrigue in the story. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. ( )

A Fool’s Notion by Lisa J. Flickinger first caught my eye with its unusual and intriguing cover. A redheaded woman in a beautiful period dress is watching a mule train trek across barren land. I knew there had to be a great story there.

In 1883, Alda Lealand of Kansas has decided to take the California trail as a single lady. Unusual enough, but she is also driving a pack of mules 1500 miles cross-country to be sold following her mother’s death and father’s disappearance. Cord is the bounty hunter who can’t settle down, but can’t keep himself from coming to Alda’s rescue more times than she would like.

I really enjoyed this light-hearted western. I often found myself laughing at situations in which the characters found themselves. The romance is sweet, albeit not smooth, due to the personalities and baggage both Alda and Cord have.

Alda has to learn that God is a “God who cared about His family, not like a fickle earthly father-like her father-but a God whose love was deep and wide.”

I found the perfect phrase for me to remember when I act like a stubborn mule, dig in my heels, and hold on like I’m right and no one better challenge me...
“You’re not above forgiving, are you?...”

All in all, just a great, fun book that I learned a few lessons from as I had a great time getting to know the characters. Highly recommended. ( )

A journey driving a team of mules from Missouri to Death Valley becomes one with much more depth for Alda Lealand.

Alda is determined, stubborn and courageous but she also loves her home and misses her mama. When she meets Cord near the beginning of her adventure, she is ready to send him on his way after his assistance. Yet he somehow keeps showing up just when she needs rescuing.

There’s an air of mystery around Cord—I mean the guy doesn’t even give his last name—and the desire to unravel it made me keep reading to find out his story. And then there’s Alda’s proclivity to land in situations she needs saving from.

Lisa J. Flickinger takes her heroine and readers on an emotional journey of finding faith and falling in love while peppering in plenty of adventure, action, and suspense. Fool’s Notion is an entertaining read with plenty going on to hold your interest.

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. ( )

Well Howdy Folks. Welcome to a trip to the 1880s. The land is rugged at times, the weather unforgiving and dreams of settling down whispers in the clouds. If there has ever been a fiery, independent, outspoken young woman it has to be Alda. She may not be tall or look like she can take care of herself, but let me tell you, don't ever underestimate a young woman on a mission to save her family home. What was she thinking taking mules across country by herself from Missouri to California? Mules aren't exactly easy to give directions to, but Alda has something to prove.

I loved the description the author gave of the land and I felt as if I was right beside Alda cheering her own as dust filtered into our mouths. Cord is one of those men who is attractive, strong and has a dangerous job. He comes upon Alda when she is in need of help. There is definitely a trust issue between the two but maybe Colt can help her get to her destination safely. Can two strangers work together or will one of them turn their back on the other? I know if I was out in the wilderness I wouldn't be to trusting when a stranger wanted to join up with me.

The story is a great historical story that is filled with danger, secrets, and a deep faith in God. The author delivers good characters and an array of adventure that makes you feel like you are in a western movie. I loved how Alda and Colt each had a secret that could change the way they feel about each other. Colt to me was the one who had the most to worry about, but I won't say why. They meet wagon trains on the way that seem to be a blessing as they are now not alone if trouble was to start. The rumors of robbers could really stop a wagon train of hardworking people in their tracks.

I liked the story and found it to be a well written saga of the western life. There is one character in the story that I didn't like. He was rude, arrogant and unkind to women. I was cheering for Colt to let him know how to treat women with respect. This part of the story was interesting and I liked how the author handled it with grace. Be sure you don't miss this great story set during a time were surviving was hard and people worked together to build a future.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )