When the Far Hills Bloom

California Chronicles #1

by Diane Noble

A SWEEPING SAGA… AN EPIC ADVENTURE… AN ENDURING LOVE STORY. From the romance of early California’s ranchos and valleys of wild horses, to the stark beauty of New Mexico’s highlands, When the Far Hills Bloom weaves an unforgettable tale of heroism and loyalty, honor and betrayal.

Aislin Byrne harbors a powerful love for the wild, untamed lands of Rancho La Paloma. The threat of its financial ruin only strengthens her feelings and seals her resolve to save her home. But the fight to rescue the rancho will draw her into a drama rife with conflict and secret sorrow, and launch her on a desperate journey that will test her mettle…and change her life forever.

Throughout her quest, Aislin is haunted by the love of two Jamie, a natural authority figure driven to leadership and perfection; and Spence, a gifted horseman and healer who is more at home with wild horses than with people. But only one man can claim her. And it will take a daring scheme to save her beloved land before Aislin’s heart can choose…

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

384 pages, Paperback

First published June 15, 1999

About the author

Diane Noble is the award-winning novelist of more published books than she can count: historical fiction, contemporary mysteries and suspense, and romance (written under the pen name Amanda MacLean).

Diane writes from a heart of deep faith that's woven into her stories and nonfiction writings. She often posts on Facebook and Twitter about her journey with Parkinson's Disease and the unexpected gift of learning to live moment by moment with humor, grace, and optimism.

With more than a quarter million books in print, Diane continues to spin tales that touch readers' hearts. Book one of her new three-book mystery series, The Professor and Mrs. Littlefield, will be in bookstores September 1, 2014. It's title? THE CURIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING FIGUREHEAD.

Diane is a professed Third Order Franciscan in the Anglican (Episcopal) Church, following the footsteps of Jesus with simpicity, love, and joy as lived out by St. Francis of Assisi. Mother to two beautiful daughters and Gramsy to two cutest-ever granddaughters, Diane lives in Southern California with her wonderful husband and two spoiled cats. Oh yes, and Diane loves

Reviews

[Taryn Spearey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic! Aslin is sad to see her betrothed leave her and hed off to war. While he is gone, Aslin begins to struggle with her feelings for his brother.

I adored the love story, and found the way Aslin's promise to remain faithful to Jamie.

I love this book!

[Rachel Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an amazing sagaof honor, love, and loyalty set in the Big Valley of California. Nearly every character gets a little POV. The author wove together so many threads. I'm glad this is only the first book in the series. I like how do many of the characters were honest, open, vulnerable with one another. Some came from places of great hurt and suffering and overcame. I would say the character who as the most fun was Aunt Gertie. I would love to have her spunk and vitality when I reach an elderly age. The Christian thread is woven through very well. There were definitely some villains butt the story mostly focuses on the main characters and their journeys. I recommend reading this book.
There is some kissing but it's not inappropriate or overly detailed.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an historical novel that takes place in California. Aislin says goodbye to her intended, Jamie, and he heads for the civil war. During his absence they learn that Jamie was killed. Aislin falls in love with his brother, Spence, even though she believes Jamie still lives. It tears her apart. It is a story of loyalty and an astounding journey to true love. I look forward to the sequel.

[Carolyn Lockwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captivating novel. Reads almost like a saga. Would have liked to have seen what happened with the youngest daughter. Some things were left unsettled.

[Renee Crook · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the story of this one. While the plot was simple enough, it wasn't overly predictable. I know there are 2 others in this series, but I might wait a bit to read them because it sounds like it is a continuation of the story with the next generations. I was fairly satisfied with just reading the first in the series for now. I love reading historical fiction, especially the early days of the United States.