Cassie Angel is used to taking care of herself. With a spirit of adventure, and a need to stay safe, she departs a dying Nevada town for the golden opportunities that await in California--along with a new life. When charming Sam Ridgeway shows up, claiming to know her uncle, and offers her protection in her travels, she has no idea there is an ulterior motive involved.
USA Today Bestselling Author Caroline Fyffe was born in Waco, Texas, the first of many towns she would call home during her father's career with the US Air Force. A horse aficionado from an early age, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications from California State University-Chico before launching what would become a twenty-year career as an equine photographer. She began writing fiction to pass the time during long days in the show arena, channeling her love of horses and the Old West into a series of Western historicals. Her debut novel, Where the Wind Blows, won the Romance Writers of America's prestigious Golden Heart Award as well as the Wisconsin RWA's Write Touch Readers' Award. She and her husband have two grown sons and live in the Pacific Northwest.
Cute and sweet, but not sickenly sweet. Kisses only.
Pretty good, but a bit cliched in dialogue and the antagonist (Avril) was cartoony.
The moral of the story has to do with trust, and the consequences of lying.
The characters were pretty well developed and likable. There was decent conflict but the story lagged in parts, and I felt it did drag on a bit too long. On the whole I did not skim, but found myself wanting the story to move along a bit faster. It was a bit repettitve in parts, but not too much.
I became frustrated with the details about all the animal stuff.. horses, cats, dogs, raccoons etc.. and I also got annoyed with the little sister at times. I generally don't care for children in my romances, they have a way of interrupting scenes and becomming a nuisance. It wasn't too bad here but it kinda irked me some.
The heroine was likable for the most part, but it irritated me how she was able to trust her uncle Avril, accepting his lies as truths, and discounting his nasty demeanor while not trusting or forgiving the hero for his lies when he was the one who deserved forgiveness. His actions proved his trustworthyness yet she remained stubborn until the end before seeing the truth.
She did not push the hero away, but also didn't let him back into her heart very easily. The hero on the other hand, never faltered in his love for her. He was wonderful.
What I loved most about the book was that there was absolutely no mention of the hero's past women or sexual experience. It wasn't needed either. I did not tag this as virgin hero because we just don't know, but I suspect he may be.
I tagged this as a christian read only because it is a kisses only story and there are a few references to God and forgivness but it isn't preachy.
I would recommend it to those who want a nice sweet, and rather low angst read.
Safety: Hero-Unknown experience. Nothing of his past mentioned. Heroine-Virgin. I'm pretty sure cause she mentions she never had any beau's OM/OW-No Cheating-No Violence-very mild..almost non existant Rape-No Abuse-No Insta love-no HEA/ILY's - yes Marriage/baby-yes to marriage and baby on the way
Narration - Luke Andreen - Pretty Good Pleasant voice and good storyteller.
The story is about Cassie and her sister Josephine, who lose their parents and are pretty much on their own except for a smarmy uncle Arvid. Sam Ridgeway shows up looking for their uncle and offers to help them on their way to California. They embark on an adventure which includes outlaws, wild animals and panning for gold.
This is a really sweet story, with a sweet romance. At first, I thought their "relationship" was a little iffy, but it all blew up and then we get to see Sam really work to win Cassie's heart and the relationship becomes much more believable. Also enjoyed Ashes contributions and Cassie and Josephine's foray into boyhood! :) Real enjoyable listen
I received this audiobook free of charge from Audiobookblast in exchange for an unbiased review
"Sourdough Creek" is a historical romance set in the Wild West (first in the Nevada territory and then in Coloma, California) during the 1800s. The romance is subtle and contains few love scenes for those of you who do not like them. The book takes place during the height of "Gold Fever" that overtook the country during that time period.
I love a strong character and Cassie Angel definitely fits that bill. During the time period in which this book takes place, women are not allowed to be particular independent, if you can imagine. However, Cassie is very headstrong and decides that staying home in a town that's dying with little family except her sort of evil uncle is not for her. She's also incredibly protective of her little sister, Josephine, which really endeared her to me.
The love story between Cassie and Sam, the cowboy, was just okay for me. I wish that the love story had been a little more detailed. Their love seemed to go from 0 to 60 in no time. I wanted to understand a little more about the "why" of their relationship. What drew them to each other? You get that they really loved each other but the intermediary was not there for me.
And this isn't really a criticism but with the contest (I'll leave it vague as I don't want to give anything away) that Sam, Cassie, and Uncle Arvid have to participate in to get the rights to the land deed. It seems like sort of an interesting way to sort things out. I sort of want to do some research to see if people really sorted out their differences like that.
I really enjoyed the story's setting. I haven't read a lot of books about the West before it was really settled. Fyffe gives a great amount of detail to really pull you into the story. You can really sense all of the different obstacles that Sam, Cassie, and Josephine face as they make their way from the Nevada territory to California.
Bottom line: A subtle love story with great characters and a good setting!
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB (copied from Amazon.com) Clarksville, Nevada Territory, June 1851 Cassie Angel is used to taking care of herself. With a spirit adventure, and a need to stay safe, she departs a dying Nevada town for the golden opportunities that await in California--along with a new life. When charming Sam Ridgeway shows up, claiming to know her uncle, and offers her protection in her travels, she has no idea there is an ulterior motive involved.
(copied from Barnes & Noble) Western Historical Romance set in 1851 Nevada Territory/California Sam Ridgeway is on a mission. He's determined to find the deed to his gold claim, along with the low-down, thieving bum who stole it from his saddlebag. Arvid Angel would pay!
Cassie Angel has a plan. She and her little sister will sneak out of Broken Branch before being left alone in the dying town with despicable Sherman brothers. Thank goodness she now has a place to flee to. On his last visit, her Uncle Arvid stashed a deed to a gold claim in her dresser drawer. Even though it means traveling to California, she's set on trying her hand at gold panning-just like thousands of others flooding to that still-wild state. Unfortunately, before she and her sister are able to depart, Klem Sherman shows up looking for trouble. Just when Cassie thinks she is lost, a tall, good-looking cowboy appears and comes to her rescue.
MY REVIEW Yes, another great story by Caroline. I liked this book from the beginning and throughout. Do you trust a stranger or a relative, even though the relative has a questionable reputation himself? You'll have to read and see what Cassie finds out to be true and all she goes through to find that truth. Highly recommended by 'ME'.
Stories about Gold country usually contain greed, treachery and sometimes violence. When Carolyn Fyffe writes about Gold country, she includes the beauty of the area, a mystery or two, and a love story. Her knowledge of horses adds deep richness to the story.
Cassie has taken on responsibility for her younger sister Josephine since the death of their mother. Now their town is dying as well. But Cassie has a plan: she and Josephine will pose as boys and head towards Coloma, California, the site of a gold mining claim to which Cassie has the deed. Her ne'er-do-well uncle left it the last time he visited. Cassie hopes to recover enough gold to start up bake shop to support herself and Josephine.
Before they can get on their way, Sam Ridgeway shows up looking for Uncle Arvid. When he hears their plans he volunteers to accompany them through the rough territory surrounding Gold country. Unknown to Cassie, Sam is the true owner of the claim and he wants to retrieve his deed. Before all secrets are revealed, Cassie and Sam must face outlaws, danger from the land, and their feelings for each other.
Fyffe's latest book paints an intriguing picture of gold mining and its frustrations. As someone who grew up near the setting for the story, she knows the area well and describes it delightfully. "Sourdough Creek" draws you in with its budding romance and dangerous secrets. Whether you like Western romance, historical adventure, or just a well-written love story you're sure to enjoy "Sourdough Creek."
"Sourdough Creek" by Carolyn Fyffe eISBN 978-0-9840146-5-1
Sourdough Creek by Caroline Fyffe is my kind of book! I love and truly enjoy a well-written sweet (clean) romance novel! From the beginning, the book just grabbed my attention and had me intrigued! I wanted, no I NEEDED to know why these two girls were dressing up as boys! Every time I thought I had this story figured out, it would take a different twist or turn! The characters were wonderful, and I enjoyed getting to know them and their strengths and weaknesses. You will be rooting for them to let go of their insecurities and fears. Add the adventure of mining gold and finding love and this novel will not disappoint! A great western historical romance, Sourdough Creek is sure to win your heart over! I am now fan and cannot wait to get my hands on another Caroline Fyffe novel!
I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
*** I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
First, I will say, I really enjoyed Luke Andreen's narration of this story. His voice was perfect for this historical western romance. Each character was easily recognizable and the pace was perfect.
I am a western romance listener, something about Cowboys for me. Caroline Fyffe delivers a beautifully set romance between Cassie and Sam. You can't help but love Sam, and quietly rooting for him throughout the entire story. He is strong, handsome, smart and oh so patient. Cassie was a little immature for my liking, but she grows on you as the story goes on. Love little Josephine and her cat, Ashes, who seems to be the guardian angel of Sam and Cassie. The scenery is expressed, so you can see it as you are listening. This book was extremely enjoyable and I look forward to other Caroline Fyffe books.
A fun romp through history, this book was as entertaining as it was romantic. Sam and Cassie are both thrown into hard circumstances not of their doing. Cassie is young and scared of falling into her mother's trap. Sam is anxious to improve the future for himself and his brother. But love and attraction proves to be a delicious distraction. I felt the roller coaster of romance was sweet and fun as they worked through the rough events of living in the west. I loved the way the author weaved the story around the various side characters and plot developments, giving a smooth story while pulling the characters and the reader from one hardship to another. I really enjoyed this one and would recommend it.
I really enjoy the way Caroline Fyffe brings her characters to life and we watch them learn and grow. The romance is sweet and clean which I love. The selfless characters show how love is so much more than just a physical attraction. Sam's willingness to just keep giving is inspiring, yet he is not perfect either. As Sam and Cassie struggle to overcome the bad things that have happened in their past they grow together and learn what is really important in life. I look forward to more stories from Carolyn Fyffe!
I really enjoy great historical romances. This book does not disappoint. Cass is so lost but finds acceptance and love with Sam. I felt for them as they struggled to get it right. Great read and be prepared to tear up!
Where in the bible does it say you have to put up with bad behavior. You can turn the other cheek and walk away. I'm sorry but the addition of the uncle made this one hard to stomach. Her impression of a door mat just made me mad. The issue is never resolve and it makes me want to roll my eyes at how stupid that is. The conflict should have been centered on his dreams vs his love but with addition of her conflict between her Christain duty and her dreams, his big decision is moot. The uncle just reduces the characters to reactive instead of proaxtive and makes a good contrast between decent folks and not. He's the driving force in the story so when you get to the climax and he's not a part of it it doesn't mean anything. The story isn't about faith it's about being too stupid to live and I haven't got time for that. Also Ms. Fyffe needs to actually learn about the mechanics of a fight scene and not watch so many action movies where the hero dodges bullets.
Twenty year old Cassie Angel learned to work hard and take care of her 5-year-old sister after her parent's death in Nevada. When she discovers a gold claim deed hidden in her drawers by her n'er do well Uncle, she determines to go to California and find enough gold to start a bakery. Sam Ridgeway is hunting the uncle and the stolen deed to the claim he won in a poker game. He helps Cassie out by accident and the three decide to head to California together, without him telling her he's also after the claim. The truth comes out when her uncle catches up to her in a small town where Sam has just defeated the local outlaw gang, and persuaded Cassie to marry him. Disillusioned with them both, Cassie leaves her sister behind and goes to the claim with Sam and Uncle Arvid. Arvid shows his true colors, Sam and Cassie do all the panning, and they finally get enough gold for both of them to follow their dreams, and finally admit that they love each other.
Cassie and her sister Josephine are hoping to fulfill a dream of their mothers by setting up a bakery. But first she had to escape a failing town and two psycho brothers who were looking for her Uncle Arvid. Just as she was being beaten up along comes a man who saves her from one of the brutes. He introduces himself as, Sam Ridgeway and also says he’s a friend of her Uncles. In truth Sam was looking for their Uncle cause he stole something from him. So Cassie lets him escort them out of town in hopes of running into their uncle and getting back his property. Along the way they run into some trouble in a small town and the crazy uncle shows up demanding he didn’t steal anything. So a proposal is given that a month is spent out in the wilderness gathering gold and whoever gets the most wins the mine. Lets say that a lot of things happen at that mine and true love is found on top of everything else.
Thank you for an excellent Western romance, filled with adventure, twists and turns, strife, love, humor and action. Adorable characters fot the most part and of course, the story needs a villain in the person of uncle Arvid. I couldn't put the book down until the last word was read.
Those who like western romance and a clean read will enjoy this story of Cassie and her handsome hero. This was a fun romp and was a wonderful distraction from the worries of isolation. Cassie and Josephine met a stranger and their lives would never be the same again. Her struggle to trust carried the story to a satisfying end.
This stand alone book was a wonderful story full of adventure, heartache, deception and romance all weaved together in an action packed plot. I just couldn't put this o e down. Just love anything by this author! Thanks for another great read!
Another great book by Caroline Fyffe. I really enjoyed Cassie and Sam's story and all the characters. They were to hurt people that needed each other but it took awhile for then to figure it out.
I have enjoyed all of Caroline Fyffe's books in here Western series. One after another, always anxious to read the next in line. I am sorry to have concluded these wonderful stories and may have to revisit them in the future.
This was such a great story! Both girls were tough and smart, after all, who would pack a cat on a long trip in saddlebags? Loved hating the uncle, really wanted him to get what he earned! Great storyline!
A heartfelt story. True romance story that is not sexually graphic! A good afternoons read that moves along at a good pace. Cassie and Sam are characters that would be fun to read about in a follow-up story.... Thank you.
There are plenty of twists and turns that kept me reading way late! I throughly enjoyed this book. I love all Caroline's books, but this one is really an excellent read!
I absolutely loved reading this book. It embraced adventure, family, importance of friendships, trust, deceit, and, of course, romance. Caroline can weave a story right into your heart. She did it again with me. Thanks for another great read Caroline!
Sam is out to find his stolen clam and Cassie with her little sister Joseph. Cassie found the gold clam in her momma Bible. She hatch a plan to escaped from town dressed them up as two little boys and Sam rides in like a hero.
The way of life in the early times of hoe families tried to make a living. Not all families had a good family relationship. Love can be hard to accept when there was do little earlier in life
This was an incredible story of courage and bravery in the face of adversity. Both Cassie and Sam had to overcome their prejudices before their feeling for each other were reveal and they found their happily ever after.
I enjoyed the book very much. Many times, it was difficult to turn the kindle off. It was not easy to know what was going to happen in the next chapter. Highly recommend.
I tried. It just wasn’t believable for many reasons. The plot seemed contrived. The hero and the child were my two favorite characters but they could not carry enough of the novel to make it enjoyable.