For me, this story had its peaks and valleys. In the valley were the repeated descriptions of farm work and what they ate for dinner. The peaks came with the exciting descriptions of people getting lost in blizzards and such. Rather than be disappointed in this style, however, I enjoyed it. If you are the type of reader who dislikes sitting on the edge of her seat from day one, then you will enjoy it, too.

It is a testament to Snelling's writing that I want to continue reading this series even after I accidentally read one of the later books first. Her descriptions of Ingeborg's indignation as she chafes against that era's rules for women ring true without feeling anachronistic. Even though I know what is coming up in the future for Ingeborg and the other characters, Snelling's writing style makes me want to read about how they deal with these events.