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Rugged Cross Ranch #1
Julie's Joy
Finding Joy . . . Julie Peterson had been born into a family of faith and privilege, but when her dad decides to move his family West to homestead near his sister's ranch in northeastern Oklahoma, disaster strikes, leaving Julie a nine-year-old orphan. Rescued and cared for by a migrating Indian village until her uncle found her years later, Julie has learned to find joy even when life turns out differently than she hoped. Meet her now as a young woman, returning home to the Rugged Cross Ranch. Though she has faced many hardships in her young life, Julie spreads joy to all around her. When the biggest tragedy of all strikes, will her joy be extinguished forever? Buck Matthews, the second oldest brother on the ranch, has given up dreams of a family, knowing no woman would accept his heritage. When Julie arrives on the ranch, their friendship reveals they have a great deal in common. Would Julie be willing to accept his love? Follow God's sovereign hand through this story of faith, family, and redeeming love. Be inspired to trust the One who loves us all unconditionally.
262 pages, Paperback
Published November 13, 2017
75 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Jill Dewhurst
4 books22 followersA Selah Award Bronze Medalist, Christian Author Award Winner, Will Rogers Medallion Award Winner, and bestselling author of historical Christian fiction, Jill's writing engages the heart of her readers and leaves them empowered to fulfill God's plan for their lives. Jill's novels seamlessly weave a page-turning story with the truth of God's unconditional love.
With her varied experience as an RN, a musician, and a homeschool mom, Jill creatively weaves a part of herself into each story. What sets her books apart is the way the characters point the reader to the truth of God's love.
When she can find some free time, she enjoys playing her flute, piano, and cello and thanking God for the hubby who lassoed her heart for keeps. She and her family love their church in Florida and serve in the music and children's ministries there.
Jill has had a secret wish for many years to write a story that would inspire readers by reminding them of a God who loves them unconditionally and longs to have a personal relationship with them. Publishing her Rugged Cross Ranch novels has been a dream come true.
With her varied experience as an RN, a musician, and a homeschool mom, Jill creatively weaves a part of herself into each story. What sets her books apart is the way the characters point the reader to the truth of God's love.
When she can find some free time, she enjoys playing her flute, piano, and cello and thanking God for the hubby who lassoed her heart for keeps. She and her family love their church in Florida and serve in the music and children's ministries there.
Jill has had a secret wish for many years to write a story that would inspire readers by reminding them of a God who loves them unconditionally and longs to have a personal relationship with them. Publishing her Rugged Cross Ranch novels has been a dream come true.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
August 2, 2025
Finding Joy is a heartfelt tale of resilience, faith, and love in the face of deep loss and unexpected trials. Julie’s journey from tragedy to triumph is both inspiring and uplifting, as she brings light and hope to those around her. Her bond with Buck Matthews is tender and meaningful, reminding readers that love often blooms in the most unlikely places. With themes of redemption, trust in God, and the strength of the human spirit, this story is a beautiful reminder that joy can be found even after the darkest of storms.
December 23, 2025
Good
This is an amazing story of things going "wrong", being redeemed; of highs and lows with unexpected outcomes. An engrossing tale with gains and losses strewn within it. Realistic characters that draw you into the story. An inspiring faith walk tale. Very well done.
This is an amazing story of things going "wrong", being redeemed; of highs and lows with unexpected outcomes. An engrossing tale with gains and losses strewn within it. Realistic characters that draw you into the story. An inspiring faith walk tale. Very well done.
December 28, 2025
A beautiful story!
Have the tissues ready! This is an amazing story of unconditional love, wrapped in grief and joy. The thread of God's foreknowledge and provision make this extra special.
Have the tissues ready! This is an amazing story of unconditional love, wrapped in grief and joy. The thread of God's foreknowledge and provision make this extra special.
January 31, 2026
Very moving story
Written story of love, compassion, family working together, supporting each other. Insight into understanding some of Indian culture and mores. Love continues thru difficult and challenging events.
Written story of love, compassion, family working together, supporting each other. Insight into understanding some of Indian culture and mores. Love continues thru difficult and challenging events.
April 10, 2025
joy through the trials
I so enjoyed this story! Yes, Julie had joy no matter what because her strength comes from the Lord. Very well done!
I so enjoyed this story! Yes, Julie had joy no matter what because her strength comes from the Lord. Very well done!
January 22, 2026
story of faith
What a love story that illustrates Christ’s love and his love for humanity. The author portrays the white man accurately in the 19th century.
What a love story that illustrates Christ’s love and his love for humanity. The author portrays the white man accurately in the 19th century.
February 11, 2026
Second love
This is an excellent story of life on the open range near Native villages. Telling the different customs and joining together in love and death.
This is an excellent story of life on the open range near Native villages. Telling the different customs and joining together in love and death.
February 25, 2026
I enjoy reading books from this time period and Julie's Joy is a good read! God's hand in Julie's life is revealed throughout the story. I'm on to read the next Rugged Cross Ranch book.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews