What do you think?
Rate this book
Prairie Dreams #1
The Lady's Maid
Lady Ann Stone’s uncle is the new Earl of Stoneford. The only problem is, he disappeared into America’s West. With only her personal maid, Elise Finster, as determined chaperone, Anne embarks upon a quest to find David Stone. First stop, St. Louis, where the ladies discover their quarry went farther west five years ago. Resolute in their mission, Anne and Elise join a wagon train to Oregon. But will their prairie adventure turn into a Wild West nightmare? Scout Eb Bentley, initially skeptical that the women can survive the journey, soon finds himself falling for the determined, charming, beautiful Elise. Can he keep her alive long enough to win her love? Or will the ladies succumb to the rigors, ruffians, and rustlers along the trail?
456 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
869 people are currently reading
1122 people want to read
About the author
Susan Page Davis
176 books525 followersFROM AUTHOR'S WEBSITE: I'm a native of central Maine, and grew up on a small farm with a wonderful mom and dad, three sisters and a brother. Most of my books take place in small towns, many of them in Maine.
My husband, Jim, and I moved to his birth state, Oregon, for a while after we were married, but decided to move back to Maine and be near my family. It allowed our six children to grow up feeling close to their cousins and grandparents, and some of Jim's family have even moved to Maine!
Our children are all home-schooled. When Jim retired from his vocation as an editor at a daily newspaper, we moved from Maine to Kentucky.
I've always loved reading, history, and horses. These things come together in several of my historical books.
Another longtime hobby of mine is genealogy, which has led me down many fascinating paths. I'm proud to be a DAR member! Some of Jim's and my quirkier ancestors have inspired fictional characters.
For many years I worked for the Central Maine Morning Sentinel as a freelancer. This experience was a great help in developing fictional characters and writing realistic scenes. I also published nonfiction articles in several magazines and had several short stories appear in Woman's World, Grit, and Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine.
My husband, Jim, and I moved to his birth state, Oregon, for a while after we were married, but decided to move back to Maine and be near my family. It allowed our six children to grow up feeling close to their cousins and grandparents, and some of Jim's family have even moved to Maine!
Our children are all home-schooled. When Jim retired from his vocation as an editor at a daily newspaper, we moved from Maine to Kentucky.
I've always loved reading, history, and horses. These things come together in several of my historical books.
Another longtime hobby of mine is genealogy, which has led me down many fascinating paths. I'm proud to be a DAR member! Some of Jim's and my quirkier ancestors have inspired fictional characters.
For many years I worked for the Central Maine Morning Sentinel as a freelancer. This experience was a great help in developing fictional characters and writing realistic scenes. I also published nonfiction articles in several magazines and had several short stories appear in Woman's World, Grit, and Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
February 15, 2012
I have to admit that I requested this book from netgalley on a complete whim. I had no idea it was "inspirational" or "Christian" or whatever other polite sobriquets are used to describe straight-laced (read: boring and preachy) romances. I even got a kindle version so I couldn't guess from the (pretty dead give-away) cover. I also have to admit I don't like the Christian romances I've picked up by accident - it feels like the poor protagonists are praying on every other page, sucking up word count from a decent plot development and characters who are interesting in themselves rather than for their religion. So, when I realized what I was reading I had a moment of disappointment, but decided to plow on.
Well, this one was a really very pleasant surprise. The story is good and slightly unusual. I've not really heard of another romance in which two English ladies end up taking the wagon trail to Oregon, even though it's more than likely that it did actually happen. Also, their quest is unusual. They are looking for the uncle of one of them, who will inherit a title and a fortune, but who left England many years ago to seek his fortune in America. Their motivation for seeking this uncle is also solid - although they could survive on their income in England, their lives would be much improved if they could find the uncle and restore their position in Society. What happens to them on their journey is also interesting, but very real. Nothing completely bizarre or preposterous or ridiculous happens.
But I think what really held this story together for me were the two main characters - the two heroines. The author sets up their characters, their relationship and their journey so well. They are employer and servant - and they act as an employer and a servant, who are extremely fond of each other, very close, almost friends, but who both respect the social distance.
My absolute favorite part of this though was how the author shows both of the heroines evolving through the story. The employer is completely hopeless at looking after herself (and, why wouldn't she be, when she has been raised to be so), and the servant not much better (her duties did not involve cooking etc), but they evolve, they learn. The author doesn't "punish" the employer for being hopeless, even though I felt myself fed up at how useless she was, but, much more realistically, shows how they both adapted to their changed circumstances and got on with it, just as a lot of individuals who took the wagon trail in the 1850s probably had to learn and adapt.
The ending is predictable and OK, the romance so-so and the writing did let it down, although I enjoyed the touches such as the hero's confusion with the concept of crinolines (probably one of the most ridiculous items of clothing ever invented). The Christian influence is absolutely minimal, and definitely in keeping with the story and the location - I think even a heathen such as myself probably would have muttered a quick prayer to a hypothetical higher being when stuck in a violent storm on the plains.
3 stars. I liked this one, and will be reading the next in the series Lady Anne's Quest.
Well, this one was a really very pleasant surprise. The story is good and slightly unusual. I've not really heard of another romance in which two English ladies end up taking the wagon trail to Oregon, even though it's more than likely that it did actually happen. Also, their quest is unusual. They are looking for the uncle of one of them, who will inherit a title and a fortune, but who left England many years ago to seek his fortune in America. Their motivation for seeking this uncle is also solid - although they could survive on their income in England, their lives would be much improved if they could find the uncle and restore their position in Society. What happens to them on their journey is also interesting, but very real. Nothing completely bizarre or preposterous or ridiculous happens.
But I think what really held this story together for me were the two main characters - the two heroines. The author sets up their characters, their relationship and their journey so well. They are employer and servant - and they act as an employer and a servant, who are extremely fond of each other, very close, almost friends, but who both respect the social distance.
My absolute favorite part of this though was how the author shows both of the heroines evolving through the story. The employer is completely hopeless at looking after herself (and, why wouldn't she be, when she has been raised to be so), and the servant not much better (her duties did not involve cooking etc), but they evolve, they learn. The author doesn't "punish" the employer for being hopeless, even though I felt myself fed up at how useless she was, but, much more realistically, shows how they both adapted to their changed circumstances and got on with it, just as a lot of individuals who took the wagon trail in the 1850s probably had to learn and adapt.
The ending is predictable and OK, the romance so-so and the writing did let it down, although I enjoyed the touches such as the hero's confusion with the concept of crinolines (probably one of the most ridiculous items of clothing ever invented). The Christian influence is absolutely minimal, and definitely in keeping with the story and the location - I think even a heathen such as myself probably would have muttered a quick prayer to a hypothetical higher being when stuck in a violent storm on the plains.
3 stars. I liked this one, and will be reading the next in the series Lady Anne's Quest.
April 22, 2023
Five stars for this story as I enjoyed it a great deal. Being an Englishwoman myself, I sensed that the depiction of Lady Anne and Elise was credible. The author did a lot of research and I felt as though I was there on the wagon train with them.
I was disappointed that the book ended without a final conclusion, although that's the nature of a series of books. I'm still trying to decided whether or not to buy the next book in the series.
I was disappointed that the book ended without a final conclusion, although that's the nature of a series of books. I'm still trying to decided whether or not to buy the next book in the series.
August 27, 2022
I first read this book in 2013 and really enjoyed it. I love Oregon Trail stories and recently wanted to dive back into that world so I pulled this one and a few others back out for a reread!
Lady Anne Stone comes to America in search of her long lost uncle to inform him he’s the new Earl of Stoneford. Apparently the Crown is unconcerned with spending the money to find the new Earl but his niece Lady Anne depends on his return to secure her own future and so sets off on a journey with her Lady’s Maid Elise Finster. The journey from London to New York to St Louis is fairly uneventful, the majority of the story taking place when the two ladies decide to embark upon the Oregon Trail in hopes of finding Uncle David on the other side. The details of trail life and difficulties for two genteel ladies makes for a wonderful read. They handle everything with a balance of grit and grace that makes the story inspiring and uplifting.
Lady Anne Stone comes to America in search of her long lost uncle to inform him he’s the new Earl of Stoneford. Apparently the Crown is unconcerned with spending the money to find the new Earl but his niece Lady Anne depends on his return to secure her own future and so sets off on a journey with her Lady’s Maid Elise Finster. The journey from London to New York to St Louis is fairly uneventful, the majority of the story taking place when the two ladies decide to embark upon the Oregon Trail in hopes of finding Uncle David on the other side. The details of trail life and difficulties for two genteel ladies makes for a wonderful read. They handle everything with a balance of grit and grace that makes the story inspiring and uplifting.
March 8, 2019
Well to do Anne has had almost all relatives die. Her uncle, David, is set to inherit the family fortune. Her and her maid, Elise, set out from near London to sail to America. Their mission is to find her uncle. Arriving in St. Louis, they learn he may be in Oregon. The wagon train, they join, proves to be quite a challenge for well to do ladies with no experience. Guess I need to read the next book in this series.
October 9, 2017
This book was well written and set up the next book in the series very well. I was satisfied as I finished the book, and looked forward to the next adventure.
September 21, 2011
Elise Finster is The Lady’s Maid, having served Lady Anne Stone (and her mother before her) for twenty years. Lady Anne’s father, the Earl, has recently died, and his heir, David Stone, was last heard from ten years ago when he was running a shop in America. Efforts to find Uncle David have been in vain, and the question of who is the new Earl cannot be settled without knowing for sure whether David Stone is dead or alive. Meanwhile, Lady Anne is left with only a small annual allowance that is not enough to maintain her lifestyle, so Lady Anne decides to travel to America to find Uncle David, with Elise accompanying her as her maid and companion.
Once in America, the ladies find evidence that David Stone rode west to Oregon ten years earlier, so they decide to purchase a wagon and mules, and join a wagon train going west. The train is guided by Mr Rob Whistler, with Mr Edwin (‘Eb’) Bentley as the scout. They have reservations about two women travelling alone, particularly as these women are obviously ladies, and, equally obviously, have none of the skills necessary for survival in the wild. However, good fortune provides them with one Mr Thomas Costigan, who offers to drive their team, but who may not be all he appears to be…
This was a really sweet historical novel, with a growing friendship between Anne and Elise, a romance, and some suspense. The lead characters were plainly Christians, but this was not really the emphasis of the story, so the book was not in the least preachy. It has to be said that the end of the novel does not quite tie up all the loose ends, leading me to suspect that a sequel will follow. Perhaps this will also answer the question of why David Stone left England for America almost twenty years ago… However, the end is quite satisfying for all the romantics out there. Overall, this was a very enjoyable book, even though it was quite different from Susan Page Davis’ contemporary romantic suspense novels (such as Frasier Island) that I have previously enjoyed.
I have to say that the journey Anne and Elise took was quite pleasant and sanitised in comparison to some, yet it still renews my awe for those hardy settlers who crossed America in tiny covered wagons to settle the West, particularly for the hardships they faced. My family drove north across part of the Great Plains in 2010, and I found it amazing that the drive that took us only a matter of hours would have taken months for those in the wagon trains. Even more amazing – 150 years later, in places you can still see the grooves left by the thousands of wagons that made the journey before the railroad was completed.
Once in America, the ladies find evidence that David Stone rode west to Oregon ten years earlier, so they decide to purchase a wagon and mules, and join a wagon train going west. The train is guided by Mr Rob Whistler, with Mr Edwin (‘Eb’) Bentley as the scout. They have reservations about two women travelling alone, particularly as these women are obviously ladies, and, equally obviously, have none of the skills necessary for survival in the wild. However, good fortune provides them with one Mr Thomas Costigan, who offers to drive their team, but who may not be all he appears to be…
This was a really sweet historical novel, with a growing friendship between Anne and Elise, a romance, and some suspense. The lead characters were plainly Christians, but this was not really the emphasis of the story, so the book was not in the least preachy. It has to be said that the end of the novel does not quite tie up all the loose ends, leading me to suspect that a sequel will follow. Perhaps this will also answer the question of why David Stone left England for America almost twenty years ago… However, the end is quite satisfying for all the romantics out there. Overall, this was a very enjoyable book, even though it was quite different from Susan Page Davis’ contemporary romantic suspense novels (such as Frasier Island) that I have previously enjoyed.
I have to say that the journey Anne and Elise took was quite pleasant and sanitised in comparison to some, yet it still renews my awe for those hardy settlers who crossed America in tiny covered wagons to settle the West, particularly for the hardships they faced. My family drove north across part of the Great Plains in 2010, and I found it amazing that the drive that took us only a matter of hours would have taken months for those in the wagon trains. Even more amazing – 150 years later, in places you can still see the grooves left by the thousands of wagons that made the journey before the railroad was completed.
November 12, 2011
The Lady’s Maid is a story that pulls you along, begging you to keep reading, despite what I would consider some major flaws. Elise Finster and her British mistress, Lady Anne Stone, travel to America in hopes of finding the missing earl of Stoneford, David Stone. After her father and uncle’s death, Lady Anne is informed that the title (and estate) cannot be passed on until there is proof of David’s death, or he returns home.
The two prim and proper women embark on a perilous journey to Oregon. Despite their lack of knowledge, the two manage to secure livestock and supplies to join a wagon train. However, Scout Eb Bentley is sure the pair will slow the wagon train down, or worse, get someone hurt or killed. But he cannot help admire Elise’s ingenuity, courage, and determination. And when danger threatens the pair, he vows to protect her all the way to Oregon…or longer if she will allow him.
The characters pull you through the story, despite the fact that there is very little physical description of them. I can’t even tell you what color Elise’s eyes are, or Eb’s hair color, but somehow, you do not care. The girls are so funny, drinking out of china cups on the range, and fretting over whether to get rid of their hoops and crinoline. Overall, though, the characters are not very compelling, and you don’t get absorbed in them.
I did not feel swept away by the romance story between Eb and Elise either. It felt like it just kind of happened and developed. Not that this is a bad thing; however, if you are looking for a romance that makes you squirt tears from your eyes, this is not your book. The story really revolves around the mystery of Anne’s Uncle David. And while it drives you through the story, (despite all the speed bumps) I don’t particularly care for how it ended. While I can see a second book in the series developing from this ending (which there is, Lady Anne’s Quest), I prefer my series to be stand alone, so each one feels like there is a concrete conclusion (even if it is later revealed that the conclusion was not as it appeared).
I am only going to give it three stars, because while I enjoyed the story, I wasn’t thrilled with it. It is a good addition to your bookshelf, but not for the more finicky reader.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The two prim and proper women embark on a perilous journey to Oregon. Despite their lack of knowledge, the two manage to secure livestock and supplies to join a wagon train. However, Scout Eb Bentley is sure the pair will slow the wagon train down, or worse, get someone hurt or killed. But he cannot help admire Elise’s ingenuity, courage, and determination. And when danger threatens the pair, he vows to protect her all the way to Oregon…or longer if she will allow him.
The characters pull you through the story, despite the fact that there is very little physical description of them. I can’t even tell you what color Elise’s eyes are, or Eb’s hair color, but somehow, you do not care. The girls are so funny, drinking out of china cups on the range, and fretting over whether to get rid of their hoops and crinoline. Overall, though, the characters are not very compelling, and you don’t get absorbed in them.
I did not feel swept away by the romance story between Eb and Elise either. It felt like it just kind of happened and developed. Not that this is a bad thing; however, if you are looking for a romance that makes you squirt tears from your eyes, this is not your book. The story really revolves around the mystery of Anne’s Uncle David. And while it drives you through the story, (despite all the speed bumps) I don’t particularly care for how it ended. While I can see a second book in the series developing from this ending (which there is, Lady Anne’s Quest), I prefer my series to be stand alone, so each one feels like there is a concrete conclusion (even if it is later revealed that the conclusion was not as it appeared).
I am only going to give it three stars, because while I enjoyed the story, I wasn’t thrilled with it. It is a good addition to your bookshelf, but not for the more finicky reader.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
October 15, 2011
Review:The lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
4 STARS
The Lady's Maid is well worth the time to read. It is adventours, western and romance in one. I hope their is a follow up book to see what happens next.
Lady Anne Stone's father died and her mother years ago. She is left a small income but cannot keep the house and servants on it. She had two Uncles that would be in line for her fathers fortune and title. One uncle died last year and the youngest one David went to America 20 years ago. David would inherit but no one has heard from him in the past decade.
Lady Anne decided her and her maid Elsie Finster would travel to America and find him.
Elsie has been with the family for years and agrees to travel with her. Elsie has been her maid for years. Elsie at 40 years old and never been married. Anne is 20 and a very sheltered. She suffered from sea sickness the whole voyage. So when they heard her uncle might have gone to Oregon she did not want to take a boat their. So they decided not to let on that Anne came from money and title. They would travel with wagon train as friends.
Someone had followed them from New York to St. Louis. The man they hired to drive the wagon train was spying on them.
Elsie and Anne had no idea how to cook on fire or drive the wagons but they were learning and willing to learn to be more independant on the trip.
Lot of young men on the wagon train were interested in Anne but she tried to treat them all the same.
The scoutt E.B. did not want to ladies on the train especially those two greenhorns but he
got close to Elsie.
I really enjoyed watching Elsie and Anne to see how they grew and changed on the way west. Would like to know more about end of the journey. Was not ready to see them go.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review from Netgalley.
Reviewed on http://readalot-rhonda1111.blogspot.com/
4 STARS
The Lady's Maid is well worth the time to read. It is adventours, western and romance in one. I hope their is a follow up book to see what happens next.
Lady Anne Stone's father died and her mother years ago. She is left a small income but cannot keep the house and servants on it. She had two Uncles that would be in line for her fathers fortune and title. One uncle died last year and the youngest one David went to America 20 years ago. David would inherit but no one has heard from him in the past decade.
Lady Anne decided her and her maid Elsie Finster would travel to America and find him.
Elsie has been with the family for years and agrees to travel with her. Elsie has been her maid for years. Elsie at 40 years old and never been married. Anne is 20 and a very sheltered. She suffered from sea sickness the whole voyage. So when they heard her uncle might have gone to Oregon she did not want to take a boat their. So they decided not to let on that Anne came from money and title. They would travel with wagon train as friends.
Someone had followed them from New York to St. Louis. The man they hired to drive the wagon train was spying on them.
Elsie and Anne had no idea how to cook on fire or drive the wagons but they were learning and willing to learn to be more independant on the trip.
Lot of young men on the wagon train were interested in Anne but she tried to treat them all the same.
The scoutt E.B. did not want to ladies on the train especially those two greenhorns but he
got close to Elsie.
I really enjoyed watching Elsie and Anne to see how they grew and changed on the way west. Would like to know more about end of the journey. Was not ready to see them go.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review from Netgalley.
Reviewed on http://readalot-rhonda1111.blogspot.com/
November 30, 2014
Elise Finster and Anne Stone don't know what the future holds for them. They know that they must find Anne's uncle, who left Britain for America 20 years earlier. Anne's father recently passed away, leaving David Stone the heir.
The two ladies embark on a journey that takes them by train, boat, and covered wagon across the United States, back when the West was largely unsettled. It is on their trek that they show what they are made of. It was interesting to see how two proper ladies are able to use their knowledge and unconventional resources to succeed on the journey.
Eb Bentley was against the two untried English women joining the wagon train. He was sure it would lead to disaster and he wanted them to be safe. His reasoning becomes clear as the book progresses. From the outset, he was attracted to Miss Finster. Their romance is not one that is sudden. It takes a course to develop over several months.
The main story is about the search for David Stone. Following his tracks on the Oregon trail leads to adventure, danger, swindlers, and romance.
This is a sweet romance with a Christian theme.
The two ladies embark on a journey that takes them by train, boat, and covered wagon across the United States, back when the West was largely unsettled. It is on their trek that they show what they are made of. It was interesting to see how two proper ladies are able to use their knowledge and unconventional resources to succeed on the journey.
Eb Bentley was against the two untried English women joining the wagon train. He was sure it would lead to disaster and he wanted them to be safe. His reasoning becomes clear as the book progresses. From the outset, he was attracted to Miss Finster. Their romance is not one that is sudden. It takes a course to develop over several months.
The main story is about the search for David Stone. Following his tracks on the Oregon trail leads to adventure, danger, swindlers, and romance.
This is a sweet romance with a Christian theme.
September 3, 2016
I bought this book with Christmas money as I was interested in the book. I enjoy Susan's books and this one didn't let me down. We see Elise and Lady Anne who she is Lady's maid to travel to America looking for Anne's missing uncle David. They first travel to St. Louis and then on the Oregon trail. Here things getting interesting as neither are use to the hard work of a trail. Eb is the scout of the wagon trail and wonders if the ladies can cope. There are trials on the trail both from elements and other issues. There seems to be someone else searching for information on David Stone which leads to some danger also. This story features Elise but we do get to see Anne also. I have always been fascinated with the Oregon trail so this book had me wanting more. This is a really interesting story and different to others I have read. I was so glad I had book two in the series to read as the book leaves you wanting to know more.
September 10, 2015
Although not much happens when two English ladies, a maid and her mistress, cross the continent in search of a lost uncle who has inherited a vast estate and left Lady Anne close to penniless. Hoping to save the title and perhaps to get better treatment, they make a desperate trip the northwest following crumbs of clues to find the man. The details of camp life are interesting and the women rise to the occasion learning to harness mules and cook over an open fire. The maid in service since her early teens dares not hope for any better life than serving Lady Anne quietly for the rest of her life. She is attracted to the man who scouts for the party but puts her duty above all else. This being an inspirational,only a few chaste kisses are exchanged along the way that lead Miss Finster to believe she might have a chance of something more. While Lady Anne is a pallid thing, Elise Finster does have character and shows it.
January 1, 2016
This is a great book! Lady Anne's uncle has inherited the earldom, the only problem is that he is in America and hasn't had contact with the family for 10 years. So Lady Anne and her lady's maid, Elise, head to America to find him. They end up joining a wagon train and heading to Oregon to search for him. I loved the characters! I liked their determination to learn how to do things themselves, and yet still keep some of their proper ways. The story does not end with this book, so you will need the next book if you want to find out what happens. I was happy with the ending of this one, though, too.
December 5, 2011
Another fun story from Susan Page Davis. It reminded me of playing Oregon Trail as a kid. I kind of want to take a wagon trip across the country now!
July 9, 2016
Good for what it was...but not outstanding.
February 6, 2024
I've liked this author's books before, but I had troubles with this one. It's mainly about traveling the Oregon Trail in 1855, but the troubles were mainly created by the characters' own actions rather than accidents and such. I caught a number of errors in historical details (like clothing). It also made no sense, for example, that an experience wagon train master would take 4 people with them for an unknown distance but take no supplies for them even though they easily could. And that judgment lapse caused big problems.
Mostly, though, Elise just annoyed me. Yes, it was Lady Ann's idea to come to America in search of her uncle, but it's Elise who kept pushing things on poor Ann. Like, near the end, Elise wanted to get married so kept pushing Elise to get married so Elise wouldn't feel bad about leaving her. But Ann has money and standing awaiting her in England, so why would she want to be a farm's wife in the remote American west? And it's not like Ann or Elise couldn't find someone else to be Ann's companion. Earlier, Elise wanted to go to Oregon after a rumor (rather than send a letter like people had been doing) because she once had a crush on Ann's uncle. Ann agreed even though they only had a few days to prepare (and limited money) if they wanted to go with the first wagon train. Then Elise had the gall to tell herself that it's really Ann pushing to do these things.
Finally, the whole romantic misunderstanding was so forced. Eb's been super helpful to the women even when Elise didn't like him.
Anyway, there was no sex or bad language. Ann's search for David continues in the next book, so there is a level of cliff-hanger at the end.
Mostly, though, Elise just annoyed me. Yes, it was Lady Ann's idea to come to America in search of her uncle, but it's Elise who kept pushing things on poor Ann. Like, near the end, Elise wanted to get married so kept pushing Elise to get married so Elise wouldn't feel bad about leaving her. But Ann has money and standing awaiting her in England, so why would she want to be a farm's wife in the remote American west? And it's not like Ann or Elise couldn't find someone else to be Ann's companion. Earlier, Elise wanted to go to Oregon after a rumor (rather than send a letter like people had been doing) because she once had a crush on Ann's uncle. Ann agreed even though they only had a few days to prepare (and limited money) if they wanted to go with the first wagon train. Then Elise had the gall to tell herself that it's really Ann pushing to do these things.
Finally, the whole romantic misunderstanding was so forced. Eb's been super helpful to the women even when Elise didn't like him.
Anyway, there was no sex or bad language. Ann's search for David continues in the next book, so there is a level of cliff-hanger at the end.
October 28, 2017
I liked this story well enough, all things considered. It was a simple, straight-forward story. The characters were likable. The pace of the story was more like a mule-drawn wagon than a racing horse. This pace was not entirely a good thing. I do plan to read book 2 to see what happens and I hope things will add up.
July 9, 2020
This was the first book I've read by Susan Page Davis.
The whole premise of the book was to find Lady Anne's uncle out west. However, it ended before we had a concrete answer. While it didn't necessarily feel like a cliffhanger, there were so many unanswered questions to be left as a stand-alone.
The story revolves around Lady Anne but the focus is on Elise, "the lady's maid." This is more or less her story. The two ladies travel from England through the Oregon Trail. I have to say, I'm not a fan of anything "Oregon Trail." But this book documented everything in tedious detail. Nothing left to the imagination.
While planning to join the "caravan" west, the ladies met Rob & Eb. Ed is the "hero" in this book. More like the male romantic protagonist.
I don't have much to say except this was not for me. I didn't enjoy the story. It was well written and lush with details and descriptions. Just not to my taste or liking.
I probably won't continue with the series. But I would be willing to try another book this author has written.
The whole premise of the book was to find Lady Anne's uncle out west. However, it ended before we had a concrete answer. While it didn't necessarily feel like a cliffhanger, there were so many unanswered questions to be left as a stand-alone.
The story revolves around Lady Anne but the focus is on Elise, "the lady's maid." This is more or less her story. The two ladies travel from England through the Oregon Trail. I have to say, I'm not a fan of anything "Oregon Trail." But this book documented everything in tedious detail. Nothing left to the imagination.
While planning to join the "caravan" west, the ladies met Rob & Eb. Ed is the "hero" in this book. More like the male romantic protagonist.
I don't have much to say except this was not for me. I didn't enjoy the story. It was well written and lush with details and descriptions. Just not to my taste or liking.
I probably won't continue with the series. But I would be willing to try another book this author has written.
August 1, 2018
The Lady’s Maid is a well-written story that explores themes of forgiveness, first impressions, and second chances. I loved that this book is not about the typical protagonist-the “lady,” but rather about the servant (Elise) who might otherwise be overlooked. I also liked that Elise is in her late 30’s, a mature character whom I am able to relate to. I cannot imagine the difficulties of crossing America in a covered wagon, yet Elise and her employer, Lady Anne had the gumption to try it. Eb and Rob are good men, rough-and-ready as trail leaders, yet sensitive enough to care for the women and children on the trip. The dialogue was realistic, and there were several “hair-raising” incidents that added depth to the journey. Messages of God’s love, acceptance, and salvation are subtly woven throughout the story without being preachy.
I received a copy of this book for free, and a positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a copy of this book for free, and a positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 24, 2017
There is almost a fantasy novel more than a historical romance. First the reader must get past the thoroughly unlikely events that put these women on the Oregon Trail. Then during the entire trek across the country on a train of 50 families, and more wagons, not a single person died of Dysentery. We all played the game and know that to be impossible. Psh, pure fantasy. In fact, not a single member of the train got so much as the sniffles or a stubbed toe. And then there’s the character flaws...
Two women who have lived extremely sheltered lives, had all or most of their needs met, are both suddenly completely self sufficient, with few mishaps in between. These women go from no physical challenges to the rigors of the trail with nary an ache or complaint. The love interest is pretty one dimensional. Still, it was a decent escape. Better than washing dishes and folding laundry.
Two women who have lived extremely sheltered lives, had all or most of their needs met, are both suddenly completely self sufficient, with few mishaps in between. These women go from no physical challenges to the rigors of the trail with nary an ache or complaint. The love interest is pretty one dimensional. Still, it was a decent escape. Better than washing dishes and folding laundry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2019
This was actually a very good story. I had to shave off a star because I think maybe the author made the trip seem a bit easier than other books I have read about the Oregon Trail. That sort of niggled at the back of my mind as I read. The other reason for a down grade is that the book has a much too abrupt ending, although that is probably because this is a trilogy and you have to keep reading to get any more details. This seems to be typical of many inspirational fiction novels...the three books are really one big, giant novel cut in to three books so there are more to buy, I think, ...very tricky marketing for the genre, I sometimes think. Happily, the library can supply me! So, I plan to go on to book two and I’ll tell you, I’d be really frustrated right now if I had to wait for the next book to be published in a year. Luckily this trilogy is already complete. Phew!
May 2, 2019
I was very impressed with the two main characters, Elise Finster and Lady Anne Stone. The author showed us their strengths and weaknesses as the tale moved along. Their determination made them admirable and their lack of knowledge of the adventure easily displayed their vulnerability. Eb Bentley proves himself both strong and, eventually, open to a new love. The pacing was good throughout the tale.
The ending, which leads to book 2, was a disappointment. I so wanted to know whether Anne finds her Uncle David or not, but the ending comes abruptly. Therefore, although I enjoyed this tale, I am not certain whether I will continue the saga. I felt "robbed" of the HEA, even though the love story was complete.
The ending, which leads to book 2, was a disappointment. I so wanted to know whether Anne finds her Uncle David or not, but the ending comes abruptly. Therefore, although I enjoyed this tale, I am not certain whether I will continue the saga. I felt "robbed" of the HEA, even though the love story was complete.
October 23, 2020
This book has been on my TBR pile for quite a while. I love Susan's writing, so when I saw I had one of her books loitering around I grabbed it! And I was in the mood for something different, so an adventure seemed like a great choice.
As always, the book was engaging from the start. From the streets of England to the wagon trail towards Oregon, it was quite a journey! I admired the fortitude of the two English women and I think they teach a lesson on grabbing hold of challenges that come our way and doing our very best to overcome them and even thrive in new environments! This was book 1 of a series of 3 and I might have to look for the others!
As always, the book was engaging from the start. From the streets of England to the wagon trail towards Oregon, it was quite a journey! I admired the fortitude of the two English women and I think they teach a lesson on grabbing hold of challenges that come our way and doing our very best to overcome them and even thrive in new environments! This was book 1 of a series of 3 and I might have to look for the others!
March 1, 2021
Oregon trail
Lady Anne is on a quest to find her Uncle David, who is to inherit the title of Count of Stonegate back in England. Accompanying her is her lifelong companion, Elise Finster, lady's maid. Their quest finds them on a wagon train, learning to cook over a fire, harness & tend mules, gather buffalo chips for their fire, all while encountering the wilds of Western America on their way to Oregon. Delightful characters, humor & gentility in the face of hardships, and some true grit they didn't know they had in them, the ladies reach their destination, and Elise finds true love "at her age". Can't wait to continue the saga as Anne meets her uncle for the first time.
Lady Anne is on a quest to find her Uncle David, who is to inherit the title of Count of Stonegate back in England. Accompanying her is her lifelong companion, Elise Finster, lady's maid. Their quest finds them on a wagon train, learning to cook over a fire, harness & tend mules, gather buffalo chips for their fire, all while encountering the wilds of Western America on their way to Oregon. Delightful characters, humor & gentility in the face of hardships, and some true grit they didn't know they had in them, the ladies reach their destination, and Elise finds true love "at her age". Can't wait to continue the saga as Anne meets her uncle for the first time.
September 18, 2019
Could you do it?
Imagine the trials and tribulations of a young, pampered English woman, raised in the life style of the privileged, and her maid traveling across the Atlantic in a sailing ship circa mid 1800s; making their way to the St. Louis area; then joining a wagon train heading for Oregon. To them it would be like most of us giving up all the modern conveniences and comforts we know then having to learn how to survive in the wilderness. Find out why and if they made it.
Imagine the trials and tribulations of a young, pampered English woman, raised in the life style of the privileged, and her maid traveling across the Atlantic in a sailing ship circa mid 1800s; making their way to the St. Louis area; then joining a wagon train heading for Oregon. To them it would be like most of us giving up all the modern conveniences and comforts we know then having to learn how to survive in the wilderness. Find out why and if they made it.
May 22, 2025
Interesting Story
I loved the story. There was definitely a mystery to unravel along the Oregon Trail. Two British women, set off on a journey to find the Uncle of Miss Stone. Little did they know, they would end up traveling to Oregon by wagon train. The only problem was, they were being followed and it was for evil, not good.
The only issue I had was that throughout the story, many words were run together making it a less enjoyable read. If that issue is fixed, this is a great story, one I hope to find out the ending to in book number two.
I loved the story. There was definitely a mystery to unravel along the Oregon Trail. Two British women, set off on a journey to find the Uncle of Miss Stone. Little did they know, they would end up traveling to Oregon by wagon train. The only problem was, they were being followed and it was for evil, not good.
The only issue I had was that throughout the story, many words were run together making it a less enjoyable read. If that issue is fixed, this is a great story, one I hope to find out the ending to in book number two.
August 4, 2017
Entertaining
Quite a twist to the usual Oregon Trail stories. I enjoyed the characters and storyline. I would love to see this book go through one more editing (since I came across over 30 grammar, punctuation, and formatting issues), to get rid of the awkward glitches while reading.
Otherwise, this story of an English lady and her maid/guardian crossing the wild frontier in a wagon train is quite engaging.
Quite a twist to the usual Oregon Trail stories. I enjoyed the characters and storyline. I would love to see this book go through one more editing (since I came across over 30 grammar, punctuation, and formatting issues), to get rid of the awkward glitches while reading.
Otherwise, this story of an English lady and her maid/guardian crossing the wild frontier in a wagon train is quite engaging.
August 14, 2017
Elise has served Anne for years but when Ann's family is gone and the Earl-dome, is at stake, they pose as friends to travel across America to find Anne's long lost Uncle David. Anne and Elise have many suitors on the long journey, once they establish themselves as competent on the wagon train. Eb is the scout leading the wagon train for the last time. He lost his wife on the first trip and now is ready to settle down and fill his ranch with livestock and maybe a family ?
August 25, 2017
I couldn't put this book down. The Earl has died, one of the heirs pre deceased him, and his daughter Lady Anne is left in limbo. Is her Uncle David still alive in America or will her cousin (who has no morals ) to be the next Earl? How to find her Uncle David? Lady Anne and her maid, Elise, set out on an adventure sure to please. Hoping to continue the series but as ebooks go, the sequel is a bit expensive.
September 25, 2017
When I read the description for this book, I thought it sounded like Downton Abbey meets the wild west. I was wrong. THE LADY'S MAID is more like Downton Abbey meets Oregon Trail. Even better!
I like the older protagonist, as well as the younger lady, and the growth of their characters during the course of the book. And who doesn't love a good trip on the Oregon Trail?
Highly recommended for readers of inspirational romance, historical romance, and for lovers of the Oregon Trail.
I like the older protagonist, as well as the younger lady, and the growth of their characters during the course of the book. And who doesn't love a good trip on the Oregon Trail?
Highly recommended for readers of inspirational romance, historical romance, and for lovers of the Oregon Trail.
February 5, 2018
I have always enjoyed Oregon Trail stories and this was no exception. I set aside my disbelief that an English debutante would be able to adapt to the trail and just enjoyed the story. Elise and Anne were very enjoyable characters as they worked hard to learn the skills they needed to survive. The mystery of her missing Uncle added a little spice to the story. While there is a bit of romance it is just a hint of it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews