Book Club Friday

Hey guys! Sorry I've been sorta MIA this week. We've been having some struggles around the house lately, so I've been focusing on that rather than the blog. Nothing to worry about, just minor issues! But I decided I'd check in before the weekend and share a book I just finished.

It may come as a surprise to you that I'm sharing another historical fiction book. (*wink, wink*) I fell in love with this particular author a while back {while Joe was deployed, I think} and somehow totally missed this book. 

{Thanks, Amazon!}

Here's Amazon's synopsis:

In 1860s Seattle, a man with a wife could secure himself 640 acres of timberland. But because of his wife's untimely death, Joe Denton finds himself about to lose half of his claim. Still in mourning, his best solution is to buy one of those Mercer girls arriving from the East. A woman he'll marry in name but keep around mostly as a cook. 

Anna Ivey's journey west with Asa Mercer's girls is an escape from the griefs of her past. She's not supposed to be a bride, though, just a cook for the girls. But when they land, she's handed to Joe Denton and the two find themselves in a knotty situation. She refuses to wed him and he's about to lose his land. With only a few months left, can Joe convince this provoking--but beguiling--easterner to be his bride?

My thoughts?

Well, it was a little slow-going at first. She gives you a good chunk of the character's back stories before the two main characters meet. Sometimes I enjoy this, sometimes I don't. Turns out I was a little impatient while reading this book. =P

Once they do meet, though, things definitely get interesting! I'm sure you can imagine given the synopsis. This wasn't my favorite of her books, but it was good! I love the way that Joe and Anna flirted and talked to each other. Sort of reminded me of Joe and I. =) Anna's stubbornness irritated me, and I loved all of Joe's attempts to woo her. All in all, it was a fun read. It also offered a lot of insights into Seattle and lumber-jacking, neither of which I know much about. And, as always, I'm a sucker for historical fiction!

Add this one to your list and let me know what you think!

What are you reading next?