This is a slight little romance, less preachy than expected, that drew my attention because of its title and time period. I have lived in the Nebraska Sandhills for a quarter century, and have sand in my shoes for all time. In addition, the story is set in Fort Robinson, Nebraska during World War II, and concerns the training of war dogs. My father was stationed at Fort Rob for that very purpose back then, and I felt a real connection to Tom Hamilton for that reason.

The descriptions of setting were comfortable and familiar. The characters were not deep and introspective by any means, but had a nice believability about them and a certain amount of spunk and determination. The story concerns two people who feel that their respective roles in the great world conflict have been sidetracked and their dreams have been denied. They find each other and find God's plan for their lives has led them to exactly the right place where they were meant to be. Pretty standard stuff for a Christian romance, but not too dogmatic or treacly.

Did I like this story more because of the connection to my father? Probably. But it was a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. ( )