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Love Finds You in Calico, California
A young seamstress weaves her own story in a world run by men. After hearing news of a silver strike in Calico, California, Abigail Watts packs up her needles and thread and follows her beloved father out West. But when she’s suddenly left alone in the rough mining town, Abigail finds herself pressed into a marriage of convenience with the local livery owner, Nathan Hawk. Determined to uncover the mystery surrounding her father’s death in the mines, Abigail agrees to stay in Calico. But when the truth sets her free, she must decide whether to leave the town - and Nathan - for good.
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2010
7 people are currently reading
742 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Ludwig
47 books132 followersElizabeth Ludwig is an accomplished speaker and teacher, often attending conferences where she lectures on editing for fiction writers, crafting effective novel proposals, and conducting successful editor/agent interviews. Book three in her popular EDGE OF FREEDOM series, Tide and Tempest, was named a finalist for the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Elizabeth was also named a finalist in the 2015 Selah Awards for her novella “One Holy Night”, part of the bestselling anthology collection, Christmas Comes to Bethlehem, Maine. Most recently, she was honored to be awarded a HOLT Medallion for her book, A Tempting Taste of Mystery, part of the SUGARCREEK AMISH MYSTERIES series from Guideposts. Her latest releases include Sheeps Passing in the Night, part of the MYSTERIES OF MARTHA’S VINEYARD series, also from Guideposts, and The Coffee Club Mysteries from Barbour Publishing. To learn more, visit ElizabethLudwig.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
May 28, 2021
Note, May 27, 2021: I just edited this review slightly to correct a minor typo.
Despite the cover image of a young woman with a Colt on her hip, this novel, set in the mining country near California's Mohave Desert in 1883, doesn't feature the kind of motifs and gun-fighting action typically associated with the "Western" genre. I've classified it as historical fiction that happens to take place in the late 19th-century American West. (The image, though, is legitimately taken from the book; heroine Abigail does strap on her dad's holster for personal protection at one point, when she needs to visit a saloon, and by her own statement she's a good shot, though she's not obliged to demonstrate it here.) Expectations created by the title, though, would be accurate; the heart of the plot here is a naturally-developing clean romance. It's not, however, what I'd call a sappy romance, and offers some content and plotting besides the romantic angle. Guessing correctly that it would be right up my wife's alley, I bought a copy as a gift for her a few years ago (being admittedly captivated by the cover myself --that won't surprise anybody who knows my tastes! :-) ); she'd read and liked it then, and was up for a reread when we were recently looking for a new book to read together.
This both is and isn't a "series" book. The publisher has a whole line of novels with the title Love Finds You in ______, the blank filled with a real-life place name. (This is the only one that I've read, or intend to read.) Otherwise, the books are unrelated to each other and self-contained. That use of actual settings functions as a sort of gimmick, and presumably usually appeals to current or former residents of the localities featured. Calico, though, is probably unique among these in that it doesn't have any current residents as such; from 1881-1896, it was a thriving boom town with a mining-based economy, but the playing out of the mines sent it into rapid decline, and it was deserted by 1904. Walter Knott of Knott's Berry Farm purchased the site and ruins of the ghost town in 1951 and began to restore it as a tourist site, and today it's a publically-owned park and tourist attraction. Author Ludwig stumbled on it during a road trip, and seriously researched its history for this book; but while she tried to keep the flavor of the community accurate, the characters and events are fictitious. (However, Dorsey, the mail-delivering dog, really existed --and dog-loving readers will appreciate that he plays a key role in the plot.)
As is sometimes the case, I don't recommend reading the Goodreads description (or the cover blurb, which as is even oftener the case, Goodreads simply reproduces); I think it gives away a good deal of the plot that readers would prefer to discover, and the author would prefer to disclose, in the natural course of the reading journey. Suffice it to say that we have a romance between a single woman and a widowed man with a small daughter (that's not a spoiler --it's not hard to guess who Abigail's love interest will be). This plays out against the backdrop of a slow-burning mystery that surrounds a fatal mine fire --although I didn't classify the book as a mystery, because the stupidity of the culprit removes the need for much detection-- and is complicated by the failure of both to honestly express their feelings, and their willingness to jump to wrong conclusions. (As my wife points out, this is actually true to the way all too many real-life humans really interact; but I still find it a frustrating and overly common device in "romance" fiction.) I would also fault Ludwig for the fact that one key conversation between hero Nathan and a couple of other characters, which should have played a major role in the tale, is simply dropped afterwards and might as well not have occurred. But I give her credit for highlighting the discrimination against Chinese immigrants in that era, for depicting cross-racial friendship, and for good character development and portrayal of human relationships (not just of and between the two co-protagonists). The denouement is also exciting --it has Abby in damsel-in-distress mode, but shows her taking a hand in trying to deal with the situation herself, not just sitting around hoping to be rescued. Though Ludwig is an evangelical Christian author writing for a Christian press, I wouldn't call the book "preachy." It does show believing characters wrestling believably (as they do in real life) with the fact that good people sometimes die seemingly prematurely and that prayers aren't exercises in wish-granting, but who also take Christian ethics seriously and don't abandon hope and trust in Divine providence.
Despite the cover image of a young woman with a Colt on her hip, this novel, set in the mining country near California's Mohave Desert in 1883, doesn't feature the kind of motifs and gun-fighting action typically associated with the "Western" genre. I've classified it as historical fiction that happens to take place in the late 19th-century American West. (The image, though, is legitimately taken from the book; heroine Abigail does strap on her dad's holster for personal protection at one point, when she needs to visit a saloon, and by her own statement she's a good shot, though she's not obliged to demonstrate it here.) Expectations created by the title, though, would be accurate; the heart of the plot here is a naturally-developing clean romance. It's not, however, what I'd call a sappy romance, and offers some content and plotting besides the romantic angle. Guessing correctly that it would be right up my wife's alley, I bought a copy as a gift for her a few years ago (being admittedly captivated by the cover myself --that won't surprise anybody who knows my tastes! :-) ); she'd read and liked it then, and was up for a reread when we were recently looking for a new book to read together.
This both is and isn't a "series" book. The publisher has a whole line of novels with the title Love Finds You in ______, the blank filled with a real-life place name. (This is the only one that I've read, or intend to read.) Otherwise, the books are unrelated to each other and self-contained. That use of actual settings functions as a sort of gimmick, and presumably usually appeals to current or former residents of the localities featured. Calico, though, is probably unique among these in that it doesn't have any current residents as such; from 1881-1896, it was a thriving boom town with a mining-based economy, but the playing out of the mines sent it into rapid decline, and it was deserted by 1904. Walter Knott of Knott's Berry Farm purchased the site and ruins of the ghost town in 1951 and began to restore it as a tourist site, and today it's a publically-owned park and tourist attraction. Author Ludwig stumbled on it during a road trip, and seriously researched its history for this book; but while she tried to keep the flavor of the community accurate, the characters and events are fictitious. (However, Dorsey, the mail-delivering dog, really existed --and dog-loving readers will appreciate that he plays a key role in the plot.)
As is sometimes the case, I don't recommend reading the Goodreads description (or the cover blurb, which as is even oftener the case, Goodreads simply reproduces); I think it gives away a good deal of the plot that readers would prefer to discover, and the author would prefer to disclose, in the natural course of the reading journey. Suffice it to say that we have a romance between a single woman and a widowed man with a small daughter (that's not a spoiler --it's not hard to guess who Abigail's love interest will be). This plays out against the backdrop of a slow-burning mystery that surrounds a fatal mine fire --although I didn't classify the book as a mystery, because the stupidity of the culprit removes the need for much detection-- and is complicated by the failure of both to honestly express their feelings, and their willingness to jump to wrong conclusions. (As my wife points out, this is actually true to the way all too many real-life humans really interact; but I still find it a frustrating and overly common device in "romance" fiction.) I would also fault Ludwig for the fact that one key conversation between hero Nathan and a couple of other characters, which should have played a major role in the tale, is simply dropped afterwards and might as well not have occurred. But I give her credit for highlighting the discrimination against Chinese immigrants in that era, for depicting cross-racial friendship, and for good character development and portrayal of human relationships (not just of and between the two co-protagonists). The denouement is also exciting --it has Abby in damsel-in-distress mode, but shows her taking a hand in trying to deal with the situation herself, not just sitting around hoping to be rescued. Though Ludwig is an evangelical Christian author writing for a Christian press, I wouldn't call the book "preachy." It does show believing characters wrestling believably (as they do in real life) with the fact that good people sometimes die seemingly prematurely and that prayers aren't exercises in wish-granting, but who also take Christian ethics seriously and don't abandon hope and trust in Divine providence.
May 13, 2018
This is my first "Love Finds You" novel. I had the opportunity to meet Elizabeth Ludwig in person a few years ago and purchased this book.
The mystery about what happened about the mine kept me engaged in the novel. Main character Abigail lost her father in a mining accident and Calico resident and widower Nathan Hawk wants to help her move forward after her loss. He also helps her try to figure out what happened at the mine. It was a sweet tale.
The mystery about what happened about the mine kept me engaged in the novel. Main character Abigail lost her father in a mining accident and Calico resident and widower Nathan Hawk wants to help her move forward after her loss. He also helps her try to figure out what happened at the mine. It was a sweet tale.
August 27, 2017
This was my first book by Elizabeth Ludwig and I was very pleased by it.
This story was super cute and really easy to read. I loved the characters, especially Lizzie, she was so cute and full of spunk. The relationship between Nathan and Abigail was so cute and I loved to get to follow their story. I wish there was another book or another chapter just to see what they are doing now.
This story was super cute and really easy to read. I loved the characters, especially Lizzie, she was so cute and full of spunk. The relationship between Nathan and Abigail was so cute and I loved to get to follow their story. I wish there was another book or another chapter just to see what they are doing now.
February 15, 2017
This was a great book to finish out the year with. I just loved Abigail, Nathan, and especially Lizzie, she was just seven layers of adorable. This definitely wasn't some cutesy western love story. I was really surprised by the mystery and the suspense in it, this was definitely a page- turner. Thank you so much Shash for recommending it!
October 30, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. The written flows really well and the story is exciting. The characted me so much though! All their longing and pining for each other but NOT telling each other how they actually feel. Maddening. Made it an exciting read, though, so recommendable for everyone who feels like reading a romance story.
November 29, 2024
Meh. It wasn't bad by any means, but it was definitely a GENTLE romance (at least compared to what I'm used to 😉), so it just didn't hit the spot. But it was cute, clean, and the MC was honestly sort of swoony 🤭
March 29, 2023
Ever read a book that you didn't want to end? You wanted the story to go on just a little bit further so you could see how the characters would act in this new situation? Love Finds You in Calico, California is one of those books! This is Elizabeth Ludwig's first full-length novel, and she does a wonderful job. The characters are realistic, the story is captivating, and the message is clear.
Abigail Watts and her father are living in Calico, California. It's a mining town, full of rough and tumble miners, saloons, and mistreated Chinese immigrants. Abigail's father works in the mine and Abigail brings in a little extra money by mending shirts for the miners. Nathan Hawk and his five-year-old daughter, Lizzie, live at the livery. Nathan's wife died on the way to California and now he is trying to be both father and mother to Lizzie. Other characters like the Chinese miners, the church minister, and Abigail's best friend, Caroline, also live in Calico.
Each chapter ends with a cliff-hanger. The reader is left wondering if there is time to read just one more chapter or if the bookmark must actually be placed in the book right now. Insight into two people who are at odds with themselves, each other, and even God to some extent propel the story forward. Actions lead to reactions that lead to other actions.
In the end, everything is resolved in the perfect way. It's like the end of a mini-series; the characters are well-known and feel like friends. One wonders what will happen to them after the book is closed. Will they go on living in Calico? Perhaps head back East to the life they left behind? One thing is certain...they will look to God for the answers to all of their questions.
Even now, after having finished the book a few months ago, I still think of the characters and how their life would have gone on. When an author creates characters that authentic, they have done a great job of writing a book.
Abigail Watts and her father are living in Calico, California. It's a mining town, full of rough and tumble miners, saloons, and mistreated Chinese immigrants. Abigail's father works in the mine and Abigail brings in a little extra money by mending shirts for the miners. Nathan Hawk and his five-year-old daughter, Lizzie, live at the livery. Nathan's wife died on the way to California and now he is trying to be both father and mother to Lizzie. Other characters like the Chinese miners, the church minister, and Abigail's best friend, Caroline, also live in Calico.
Each chapter ends with a cliff-hanger. The reader is left wondering if there is time to read just one more chapter or if the bookmark must actually be placed in the book right now. Insight into two people who are at odds with themselves, each other, and even God to some extent propel the story forward. Actions lead to reactions that lead to other actions.
In the end, everything is resolved in the perfect way. It's like the end of a mini-series; the characters are well-known and feel like friends. One wonders what will happen to them after the book is closed. Will they go on living in Calico? Perhaps head back East to the life they left behind? One thing is certain...they will look to God for the answers to all of their questions.
Even now, after having finished the book a few months ago, I still think of the characters and how their life would have gone on. When an author creates characters that authentic, they have done a great job of writing a book.
December 26, 2015
This is my first foray into the "Love Finds You" series. I'd been afraid they'd be sappy romances, but I like Elizabeth Ludwig's writing and loved the cover, so decided to risk it. I was pleasantly surprised by this, especially the mystery that runs through it about what really happened in the mine the night Abigail's father died. And there were no untoward throbs and twitches and wild fantasies about "being with" someone...just two people who seem to find love pretty quickly while carrying on after tragedy. I'll definitely be trying more in the series.
February 28, 2017
I've been reading quite a bit of Christian historical romances lately, but they've all been great...including this one.
March 6, 2015
SUMMARY: A young seamstress weaves her own story in a world run by men. After hearing news of a silver strike in Calico, California, Abigail Watts packs up her needles and thread and follows her beloved father out West. But when she's suddenly left alone in the rough mining town, Abigail finds herself pressed into a marriage of convenience with the local livery owner, Nathan Hawk. Determined to uncover the mystery surrounding her father's death in the mines, Abigail agrees to stay in Calico. But when the truth sets her free, she must decide whether to leave the town - and Nathan - for good.
REVIEW: Elizabeth Ludwig writes great historical romance fiction and this one fits that bill including a bit of mystery, a dash of adventure and a pinch of suspense as well. I especially liked this book because Calico Ghost Town was purchased by Walter Knott the owner of Knott's Berry Farm in 1951 to be a restored mining town. My dad was head commercial artist at Knott's Berry Farm and was responsible for overseeing the historical accuracy for the restoration of the buildings and their interiors. So we spent many weekend exploring the old town as it was restored. Ludwig made the town come alive with it saloons, miners, general store and its people.
The characters of Abigail and Nathan were full of human strengths and weaknesses. The development of their romance was sweet and tender yet the stubbornness to admit their feelings could also be exasperating. The side characters like Lizzie, Gavin, Belle, and Lin added depth to the storyline.
Definitely a sweet, historical read that most readers should enjoy.
FAVORITE QUOTES; "Young man, let me tell you something about the God I serve. He rarely works in the way I expect or in a way I can understand, but He always, ALWAYS answers prayer."
REVIEW: Elizabeth Ludwig writes great historical romance fiction and this one fits that bill including a bit of mystery, a dash of adventure and a pinch of suspense as well. I especially liked this book because Calico Ghost Town was purchased by Walter Knott the owner of Knott's Berry Farm in 1951 to be a restored mining town. My dad was head commercial artist at Knott's Berry Farm and was responsible for overseeing the historical accuracy for the restoration of the buildings and their interiors. So we spent many weekend exploring the old town as it was restored. Ludwig made the town come alive with it saloons, miners, general store and its people.
The characters of Abigail and Nathan were full of human strengths and weaknesses. The development of their romance was sweet and tender yet the stubbornness to admit their feelings could also be exasperating. The side characters like Lizzie, Gavin, Belle, and Lin added depth to the storyline.
Definitely a sweet, historical read that most readers should enjoy.
FAVORITE QUOTES; "Young man, let me tell you something about the God I serve. He rarely works in the way I expect or in a way I can understand, but He always, ALWAYS answers prayer."
August 30, 2011
Title: LOVE FINDS YOU IN CALICO, CALIFORNIA
Author: Elizabeth Ludwig
Publisher: Summerside Press
October 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60936-001-6
Genre: Inspirational/historical romance
Abigail Watts is the only child of her mining father, and even though she’s scared of Calico, she stays with her father. She has nothing back East. When a mine explosion kills six miners and her father, Abigail is stunned. She is even more stunned when the owner of the mine refuses to give her the pay due, claiming her father caused the explosion. He also gives her three weeks to vacant the house.
Nathan Hawk is the local livery owner and he was with Abigail’s father when he died. But he is sympathetic when he learns of the blame placed on her father.
Abigail decides to stay on in Calico, dangerous though it is, and work as a seamstress, while she tries to clear her dad’s good name. But who is really behind the explosion? Why are they hiding it? And will the truth really set her free?
LOVE FINDS YOU IN CALICO, CALIFORNIA is another historical romance set in a real life historical town of Calico. Now a ghost town, Calico has been restored as a tourist attraction by the owner of Knot’s Berry Farms. I love these bits of information included in these books.
The story, true to most books in the historical genre, starts out with death—and a lot of it—but Abigail is a sweet, compassionate heroine even as her world collapses around her feet. Nathan also is a wonderful hero, kind and considerate, and typically male as he tries to fix problems that arise.
If you enjoy historical romances, then you will want to read LOVE FINDS YOU IN CALICO, CALIFORNIA. A fascinating note from the author is also included. $12.99. 350 pages.
Author: Elizabeth Ludwig
Publisher: Summerside Press
October 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60936-001-6
Genre: Inspirational/historical romance
Abigail Watts is the only child of her mining father, and even though she’s scared of Calico, she stays with her father. She has nothing back East. When a mine explosion kills six miners and her father, Abigail is stunned. She is even more stunned when the owner of the mine refuses to give her the pay due, claiming her father caused the explosion. He also gives her three weeks to vacant the house.
Nathan Hawk is the local livery owner and he was with Abigail’s father when he died. But he is sympathetic when he learns of the blame placed on her father.
Abigail decides to stay on in Calico, dangerous though it is, and work as a seamstress, while she tries to clear her dad’s good name. But who is really behind the explosion? Why are they hiding it? And will the truth really set her free?
LOVE FINDS YOU IN CALICO, CALIFORNIA is another historical romance set in a real life historical town of Calico. Now a ghost town, Calico has been restored as a tourist attraction by the owner of Knot’s Berry Farms. I love these bits of information included in these books.
The story, true to most books in the historical genre, starts out with death—and a lot of it—but Abigail is a sweet, compassionate heroine even as her world collapses around her feet. Nathan also is a wonderful hero, kind and considerate, and typically male as he tries to fix problems that arise.
If you enjoy historical romances, then you will want to read LOVE FINDS YOU IN CALICO, CALIFORNIA. A fascinating note from the author is also included. $12.99. 350 pages.
August 24, 2010
With a love story that was sweet and enduring and a suspense thread to keep the story moving, I was never bored while reading this book.
The characters in LOVE FINDS YOU IN CALICO CALIFORNIA stand on their own two feet and come pretty close to real for me. The chain of events that lead the characters through the story are in a domino effect and I was quickly swept into their lives and problems. When Abigail’s father dies in a mysterious mine accident, she cannot rest until the reason behind his death is discovered, leading her into danger on more than on occasion. But when an arranged marriage offer presents itself, will she accept and save herself from financial ruin and the town’s animosity?
Each character’s part in the story filled it with life and interest. I sympathized with Abigail and her turmoil of emotions as she was made to make some important decisions and when it came down to the wire at the end of the novel, I held my breath waiting for the end result of the climatic scenes. I found enjoyment within the pages of this book. It flows and kept me interest clear up to the very end and I thought it another great installment in the “Love Finds You” series.
The characters in LOVE FINDS YOU IN CALICO CALIFORNIA stand on their own two feet and come pretty close to real for me. The chain of events that lead the characters through the story are in a domino effect and I was quickly swept into their lives and problems. When Abigail’s father dies in a mysterious mine accident, she cannot rest until the reason behind his death is discovered, leading her into danger on more than on occasion. But when an arranged marriage offer presents itself, will she accept and save herself from financial ruin and the town’s animosity?
Each character’s part in the story filled it with life and interest. I sympathized with Abigail and her turmoil of emotions as she was made to make some important decisions and when it came down to the wire at the end of the novel, I held my breath waiting for the end result of the climatic scenes. I found enjoyment within the pages of this book. It flows and kept me interest clear up to the very end and I thought it another great installment in the “Love Finds You” series.
April 6, 2014
Abigail lives with her father in Calico, CA, which is booming with silver mining. At the livery across the street lives a widower Nathan and his daughter Lizzie.
When crazy things start happening at the mine, and when suspicions peek, there are fingers pointing towards Abigail's father being the fault of it. She and Nathan set out to find out the truth and get down to business. In the process there are emotions building up.
I don't think this story had a good build. It was pretty basic and didn't really show enough character builds. I felt unemotionally attached and I feel there was a lack of "Christian" in this story, though God is mentioned indeed. The book is about trusting in God ultimately. I felt the problems in this were solved too easily too. I had been looking forward to this book for a while (as I read all the Love Finds You books regularly).
When crazy things start happening at the mine, and when suspicions peek, there are fingers pointing towards Abigail's father being the fault of it. She and Nathan set out to find out the truth and get down to business. In the process there are emotions building up.
I don't think this story had a good build. It was pretty basic and didn't really show enough character builds. I felt unemotionally attached and I feel there was a lack of "Christian" in this story, though God is mentioned indeed. The book is about trusting in God ultimately. I felt the problems in this were solved too easily too. I had been looking forward to this book for a while (as I read all the Love Finds You books regularly).
September 27, 2017
Uhh. I tried, I really did. I loved Elizabeth Ludwig's "No Safe Harbor" novel, so I figured this one would be just as amazing...I was so wrong.
It started dragging from 30% in, but I figured it really couldn't be THAT bad (oh, but it was) so I kept reading. After 60% and neither main character in love with the other... and Abigail constantly trying to be "stubbornly independent," I decided my sunk cost fallacy wasnt worth another minute.
You have to know, I hate to leave things unfinished, but I couldn't force myself to read another word. And to think I didn't call my grandma today because I wanted to spend my time reading this...ugh.
It started dragging from 30% in, but I figured it really couldn't be THAT bad (oh, but it was) so I kept reading. After 60% and neither main character in love with the other... and Abigail constantly trying to be "stubbornly independent," I decided my sunk cost fallacy wasnt worth another minute.
You have to know, I hate to leave things unfinished, but I couldn't force myself to read another word. And to think I didn't call my grandma today because I wanted to spend my time reading this...ugh.
August 17, 2011
It was absolutely amazing!I loved it soooooooooooo much!
September 9, 2020
This book tells a complete story and could stand alone. It is part of the Love-Finds-You series by different Christian authors, but other than the array of unique places, there is no tie between the stories.
The first half of this book is completely depressing as poor Abigail suffers one disaster after another. Except for Caroline and Nathan, people were cruel.
This book is part mystery and part romance. The romance part is flat and uninspiring. The mystery is not much of one. I knew from the beginning just about everything that was going to happen including the villain and the motive. I have said in other book reviews that mixing romance and crime mystery often has poor results and this is one such case.
This is a Christian book and the theme is trusting God in all circumstances. I have mixed feelings about fictional books like this where the author plays God and constructs artificial circumstances to make a point. The One True God is certainly mysterious and we can't understand his ways so I would never say that God wouldn't work in certain ways, but in this case, the circumstances that were constructed just didn't seem right. If the story were a true story, I wouldn't doubt at all and I'd say praise the Lord, but it's not a true story. It's fiction out of the mind of a human author.
This is another book with an independent heroine who has no concern for the danger she courts for herself or the innocents around her.
Mature themes: a woman is assaulted in her home and barely talks the perpetrator out of raping her. Otherwise, the only sex is a simple kiss. There are mining disasters with dire consequences.
The first half of this book is completely depressing as poor Abigail suffers one disaster after another. Except for Caroline and Nathan, people were cruel.
This book is part mystery and part romance. The romance part is flat and uninspiring. The mystery is not much of one. I knew from the beginning just about everything that was going to happen including the villain and the motive. I have said in other book reviews that mixing romance and crime mystery often has poor results and this is one such case.
This is a Christian book and the theme is trusting God in all circumstances. I have mixed feelings about fictional books like this where the author plays God and constructs artificial circumstances to make a point. The One True God is certainly mysterious and we can't understand his ways so I would never say that God wouldn't work in certain ways, but in this case, the circumstances that were constructed just didn't seem right. If the story were a true story, I wouldn't doubt at all and I'd say praise the Lord, but it's not a true story. It's fiction out of the mind of a human author.
This is another book with an independent heroine who has no concern for the danger she courts for herself or the innocents around her.
Mature themes: a woman is assaulted in her home and barely talks the perpetrator out of raping her. Otherwise, the only sex is a simple kiss. There are mining disasters with dire consequences.
May 7, 2023
A delightful book with an authentic Old West vibe and a fair amount of suspense. There was a colorful cast of characters. Lizzie, was a child who asked a myriad questions. The aunts, Vivian and Hester Jane were a hoot. Abigail, the heroine, was a lady determined to make her own way in the world. Nathan, the hero was a hard worker full of integrity, but a bit shy of expressing his feelings. I've enjoyed many books in this series, including this one.
March 28, 2025
I liked this story. I thought both Abigail and Nathan were good characters that I wanted the best for, even if I wanted to talk some sense into the both of them up until the very last minute, as it were!
I think I liked the bit of mystery surrounding the mine fire even better. I enjoyed going along with Abigail as she tried to figure out what had really happened the night her father died. I had my suspicions, but the actual reveal left me sad.
3.5 stars
I think I liked the bit of mystery surrounding the mine fire even better. I enjoyed going along with Abigail as she tried to figure out what had really happened the night her father died. I had my suspicions, but the actual reveal left me sad.
3.5 stars
February 15, 2017
5 Stars!!
I absolutely loved this book!!!!!!<3
It's part mystery and part romance with some humor mixed in!
My favorite part is when Lizzie is talking to the aunt:
Aunt:"A child who pouts is not polite."
Lizzie:"Neither is a grown-up who stares."
LOVED this book!!!! Can't wait to read more!!
I absolutely loved this book!!!!!!<3
It's part mystery and part romance with some humor mixed in!
My favorite part is when Lizzie is talking to the aunt:
Aunt:"A child who pouts is not polite."
Lizzie:"Neither is a grown-up who stares."
LOVED this book!!!! Can't wait to read more!!
January 9, 2021
Marriage of convenience stories are my favorite😊. When the two people fall in love with each other and they stay together it makes me smile so big😄. Loved all the "characters" even the Aunts, the small town setting was awesome BUT the mine and the ending were the BEST part of the story. I cried a little at that part but it was still my favorite😉.
March 22, 2021
Abigail and her dad are living in the silver mining town of Calico, California. He works in the silver mine. At the very first an explosion happens in the mine killing her father. Now Abigail must figure out what to do and to top it off the house she lives in belongs to the mining company. They give her one week to figure out what to do.
November 19, 2025
I appreciated the characters growth in their life with God. I do hate though when people have the truth ready to tell and dont for almost the entire book. . .
Ludwig did not have a boring part in this book. it kept me in my toes, which I liked. it was a fast paced book and easy to read in short spurts.
Ludwig did not have a boring part in this book. it kept me in my toes, which I liked. it was a fast paced book and easy to read in short spurts.
August 2, 2018
Now one of my favorite books. I grew up visiting Calico. So this was a fun read.
July 25, 2020
DNF at 50%. .. . Soooo drawn out. And besides the guy she married, none of the other people in town showed the main character a shred of kindness; they were too judgy and suspicious
October 18, 2023
very predictable
September 2, 2024
felt like it was drawn out more than needed and the slimy businessman was an obvious antagonist
December 22, 2010
With a dash of mystery, a pinch of suspense, and a mixture of adventure and romance, this book made for a nice, one-time read. It was the first “Love Finds You” book that I’ve picked up, so I was excited to see what these books were like. I am afraid to say that it wasn't the best experience...though it certainly wasn't the worst!
The death of Abigail’s father was sad. Even though you don’t get to know him much in the first few chapters of the book, he seemed like such a godly father to Abigail, that you just know someone special was lost. Abigail’s courage through this ordeal was commendable, especially as she tried to get by without her father’s comforting and protecting arms. When she has no choice but to accept a marriage of convenience with Nathan, I was curious how it would all turn out.
The love story in this book was sweet as Nathan and Abigail slowly began to respect and love the other. What I found annoying and rather irksome was the fact that they were too stubborn to admit their love to each other! Even when Abigail was packing her bags to leave, he didn’t say anything – and she didn’t confess either! I was almost mad at the pair – I just wanted to yell “Wake up, you two! Don’tcha see what’s happenin’?” lol
It still made for a nice read, though. I would label this book more of a romance story than a mystery, though. The mystery was pretty light and not suspenseful or drawn out to any degree. I was a little disappointed because it was so shallow. Beside’s this, I enjoyed the read, though think it would've been better with less stubborn characters and a stronger mystery plot.
The death of Abigail’s father was sad. Even though you don’t get to know him much in the first few chapters of the book, he seemed like such a godly father to Abigail, that you just know someone special was lost. Abigail’s courage through this ordeal was commendable, especially as she tried to get by without her father’s comforting and protecting arms. When she has no choice but to accept a marriage of convenience with Nathan, I was curious how it would all turn out.
The love story in this book was sweet as Nathan and Abigail slowly began to respect and love the other. What I found annoying and rather irksome was the fact that they were too stubborn to admit their love to each other! Even when Abigail was packing her bags to leave, he didn’t say anything – and she didn’t confess either! I was almost mad at the pair – I just wanted to yell “Wake up, you two! Don’tcha see what’s happenin’?” lol
It still made for a nice read, though. I would label this book more of a romance story than a mystery, though. The mystery was pretty light and not suspenseful or drawn out to any degree. I was a little disappointed because it was so shallow. Beside’s this, I enjoyed the read, though think it would've been better with less stubborn characters and a stronger mystery plot.
June 27, 2011
More like 4.5 stars
This story was engaging from the first page. I'd wanted to read it sooner but got backed up with other commitments. Having said that, I really enjoyed the mining theme in this story. There are a lot of mining towns in Arizona and I've toured several mines, so I totally understand the terror one feels in the complete absence of light. I don't know how people could stand to work in mines all day without going crazy. That said, I found the love story tender and enthralling, and the fact that the hero was a liveryman rather than a miner, a bit of a relief. The author does an excellent job with setting and historical themes. I was well-grounded in the time period.
I felt the deep sense of loss Abigail felt when tragedy befell her family because of the mine. I didn't want to see the heroine worried about the same fate for Nathan. The fact that I cared about the heroine as much as I did says a lot about the book. Nathan's daughter Lizzie was a total sweetheart, too, even if somewhat precocious like young children tend to be. The way the author intertwined the plot with mystery themes was well done. The story felt a bit like a historical whodunit with an amateur sleuth and all of the elements of danger that a classic mystery contains. The author is obviously gifted in this area. The ending was tender and sweet and made me smile. An all-around delightful story. I'm glad I finally got around to reading it.
This story was engaging from the first page. I'd wanted to read it sooner but got backed up with other commitments. Having said that, I really enjoyed the mining theme in this story. There are a lot of mining towns in Arizona and I've toured several mines, so I totally understand the terror one feels in the complete absence of light. I don't know how people could stand to work in mines all day without going crazy. That said, I found the love story tender and enthralling, and the fact that the hero was a liveryman rather than a miner, a bit of a relief. The author does an excellent job with setting and historical themes. I was well-grounded in the time period.
I felt the deep sense of loss Abigail felt when tragedy befell her family because of the mine. I didn't want to see the heroine worried about the same fate for Nathan. The fact that I cared about the heroine as much as I did says a lot about the book. Nathan's daughter Lizzie was a total sweetheart, too, even if somewhat precocious like young children tend to be. The way the author intertwined the plot with mystery themes was well done. The story felt a bit like a historical whodunit with an amateur sleuth and all of the elements of danger that a classic mystery contains. The author is obviously gifted in this area. The ending was tender and sweet and made me smile. An all-around delightful story. I'm glad I finally got around to reading it.
June 29, 2015
3.5
I remember visiting a ghost town when I was a little girl and couldn’t help but wonder what the people had been like that once lived there. There is something very charming about old ghost towns, I love them. When I learned that Calico was an actual ghost town I was drawn to the story. I think that’s why I liked this one so much, the people seemed real and I was easily able to picture the old western town of Calico (where I definitely plan to visit next time I’m in the area).
I’m quickly finding that I just love the Love Finds You series, each book I’ve read has been well researched, with fun plots and likable characters. This was no exception; I fell for Abigail and Nathan right from the beginning and had to keep reading to see how their story would unfold. While I personally like a bit more romance in my stories, I still enjoyed their courtship (even if it lacked some of the wooing that I so love). Nathan genuinely cares for Abigail and she grows to care for him as well. Reaching a very low point in her life with nowhere to turn she accepts Nathan’s wedding proposal, knowing that he will never love her, at least not like he did his first wife. The mystery behind her father’s death is also a main storyline and kept things interesting (although it was fairly obvious “who done it”).
Overall, I thought this was a fun western.
Content: Clean, mild religious elements.
I remember visiting a ghost town when I was a little girl and couldn’t help but wonder what the people had been like that once lived there. There is something very charming about old ghost towns, I love them. When I learned that Calico was an actual ghost town I was drawn to the story. I think that’s why I liked this one so much, the people seemed real and I was easily able to picture the old western town of Calico (where I definitely plan to visit next time I’m in the area).
I’m quickly finding that I just love the Love Finds You series, each book I’ve read has been well researched, with fun plots and likable characters. This was no exception; I fell for Abigail and Nathan right from the beginning and had to keep reading to see how their story would unfold. While I personally like a bit more romance in my stories, I still enjoyed their courtship (even if it lacked some of the wooing that I so love). Nathan genuinely cares for Abigail and she grows to care for him as well. Reaching a very low point in her life with nowhere to turn she accepts Nathan’s wedding proposal, knowing that he will never love her, at least not like he did his first wife. The mystery behind her father’s death is also a main storyline and kept things interesting (although it was fairly obvious “who done it”).
Overall, I thought this was a fun western.
Content: Clean, mild religious elements.
October 30, 2015
After reading this story, the description/story teaser didn't fit very well. Abigail and her father are living in the mining town of Calico when disaster strikes at the mine. When her father goes to assist, her father's friend and neighbor, Nathan Hawk returns to break the news that Abigail is alone. He offers his assistance and Abigail is determined to find out how her father died and make a living. As a woman alone in a rough mining town, she doesn't make any headway and then is attacked in her home. Nathan offers his help in a marriage of convenience, he'd help her find answers and she would help him with his young daughter.
There is a lot more mystery than the original teaser offers. Nathan's daughter, Lizzie, also plays a larger role in the story as well. It's a good standalone novel.
Time Period: 1883
Location: Calico, California
Reviewed from a library copy.
There is a lot more mystery than the original teaser offers. Nathan's daughter, Lizzie, also plays a larger role in the story as well. It's a good standalone novel.
Time Period: 1883
Location: Calico, California
Reviewed from a library copy.
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