Ticket to Tomorrow

A Fair to Remember #1

by Carol Cox

Annie Trenton and her late husband's partner, Silas Crockett, step off the train at the great world's fair in Chicago and walk smack into political intrigue. When a stranger accidentally collides with Silas, more than a satchel is unintentionally exchanged, drawing Annie, Silas, and a handsome rodeo rider into a world of deceptions and conspiracies. When Annie's keen powers of observation threaten to expose devious plots, more than her exhibition plans hang in the balance. Will Annie lose her life before she has a chance to surrender her heart?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Christian Fiction, Romance, Christian, Christian Historical Fiction, Fiction

317 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2006

About the author

Carol Cox has an abiding love for history and romance, especially when it’s set in her native Southwest. As a third-generation Arizonan, she takes a keen interest in the Old West and hopes to make it live again in the hearts of her readers. A pastor’s wife, Carol lives with her husband and daughter in northern Arizona, where the deer and the antelope really do play—within view of the family’s front porch.

Reviews

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m fascinated with the Chicago World’s Fair, so was intrigued when I became aware of this book. The author does a great job of describing the atmosphere of the fair, not in big chunks of exposition, but sprinkling bits and pieces of sights, smells, and sounds, so much, so that her scenes took me back to my own experiences at the Knoxville (TN) World’s Fair. The plot was clever and well-written, an imaginative “what if.” I enjoyed reading about the new “technologies” that were being introduced at the time, and the story included a cameo appearance by Thomas Edison. Annie is a widow, and her grief is captured sensitively and realistically without creating a gloomy feeling to the story. Nick is a wonderful hero, and I enjoyed his performances at Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show. Bill Cody also makes some appearances which created a fun element to the book. Themes of forgiveness and salvation are woven throughout the story without being preachy. All in all a lovely story.

[Jayna Baas · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a lot of ways, this was a fairly typical Christian historical romance. It delivered what I was looking for—not a breathtaking read, but a satisfying story.

However, there were a few reasons it caught my interest:

The setting—I haven’t personally read a lot of books set during the Chicago World’s Fair, although I know they’re out there. The author clearly did her research, and I enjoyed getting to experience the sights and sounds that Annie experienced.

The characters—the romance itself was fairly typical, as mentioned, but I was intrigued by the combination of a rider in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show and the widow of an inventor. I would have loved to see more of Nick’s experiences in training and showmanship. Although I felt that in some ways the romantic storyline resolved itself too easily, there were plenty of difficulties for the characters to resolve in other areas of their lives. And there were plenty of fun supporting characters along the way.

The mystery—I will admit, the villains didn’t always come across as the brilliant masterminds they were supposed to be. They were somewhat melodramatic at times and made less than bright decisions at others. However, the premise was fascinating—international intrigue involving Spain and Cuba. I love it when a story feels like it could work in only one specific place and time, and that’s how this mystery felt. It was very tied to the era and the location.

I also appreciated that this Christian novel actually lived up to the label and showed Annie turning to God’s Word for wisdom and strength. She wasn’t perfect, but she was willing to grow and wanted her life to turn others to Christ. If you enjoy Christian historical fiction with a touch of romance and a bit of intrigue, give this one a try.


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[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I won this book, I was expecting a romance and learning a lot about the 1893 World's fair. I got both but so much more. There was adventure, danger, shows, etc. to name a few. The details about the layout of the fait made one wish they could have attended such a large fair as it would have taken days to experience it all. Annie losing her husband and being a young widow I found interesting as she tried to mend feelings with her husband's family who had never met her. Yet they did not accept her even then. But when they learned about the carriage that her husband had build with his partner, they tried to steal it out from under her. Silas was like a lot of older people are confused a lot but still able to do what he knew best. In reading this book, you are walking through an adventure with Annie as she takes a train ride to Chicago from Indiana. I've often wondered what it would be like to ride a train. Then when she meets Nick, Silas' nephew, she isn't prepared for the person she meets. Nick being in a Wild West show gives you insite to Wild Bill Cody's Wild West show which is well know even today. Annie ends up in trouble but she holds her wits about her and you learn how God protects her all throughout this book and how to stay calm even when in danger. As I am going through someone trying to set my house afire, I read this book at an ideal time. It has strengthened me in my faith and prepared me for some of things I am walking through right now. To me a must read for everyone.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting times for Annie Trenton and partner Silas Crockett as they exhibit their new horseless carriage at the 1893 Chicago Columbian Exhibition. As Annie and Nick Rutherford, nephew to Silas, grow closer, so does a mysterious man who seems to be following Annie.
Seen through Annie’s eyes, the Chicago Fair is spectacular. And danger ramps up as Annie tries to puzzle out a plot and political intrigue. Meanwhile, Nick ponders whether to stay will Bill Cody’s Wild West Show or settle on something a bit more stable.
Great start to a series about one of my favorite subjects.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carol Cox is a very good author, I wish she was still writing Christian historical fiction books.
This story was about the widow of an inventor, and his partner, and their experiences at the World's Fair in Chicago in the 1800s. Plenty of interesting facts and a good, solid plot that has some suspense and excitement.

Romans 10:8-13; John 3:16-21

[Carrie Daws · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story with a fantastic backdrop. Mrs. Cox describes the Chicago World's Fair with equal combinations of broad strokes and intimacy, impressing upon readers it's vastness and uniqueness while making it a wonderful backdrop for the events of her story. She created characters I wanted to read about as well as a tale of romance and intrigue, but she kept it light enough that it was relaxing to read. Altogether enjoyable, and I look forward to the rest of the series.

[Sharon Huether · Rating 4 out of 5]

During the Chicago Worlds Fair in 1893, a new invention was on display. A gas engine automobile. Anne and her Uncle Salas were there promoting their, and Anne's late husband Will's automobile who had designed and produced. They encountered thieves and family members wanting to steal their invention. Anne's faith in God sustained her. The story had a good outcome.

[PAMpublish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well-written and researched involving delightful descriptions surrounding the World's Fair held in Chicago in the late 1800s with a lovely cover. This novel takes you right back to that era with a detailed description of the lay-out and offerings of the fair, making you feel a part of it. This involves a recent widow (Annie) who escorted her late husband's brilliant but absentminded older partner (Silas) to display their new invention - a horseless carriage. In their travels, Nick, Silas' nephew, who is part of a wild west show nearby assists them. Somehow through a bumbling mix-up, Silas acquires information from an anarchist who plans to assassinate the Spanish princess. This results in danger, unknowingly to them, as they attempt to procure financial production support for their invention. Annie, who assisted her husband when alive, only wanted to follow-through on his final wish, not expecting to fall for handsome Nick. Much adventure, mystery, and ultimately romance will provide a reader with an entertaining read for those who enjoy a historical genre.

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annie Trenton travels to the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, determined to see her late husband Will's last invention, a horseless carriage. She arrives in Chicago with Silas Crockett and hopes to heal the breach between herself and her in-laws. Annie doesn't plan on having an attraction to Nick Rutherford who is a performer with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show...
...or learning that her in-laws are scheming to steal the rights to Will's invention...
...or an innocent mix-up at the station that will throw her, Nick, and Silas into a world of deceptions, conspiracies, and danger.

I loved the experience of the Chicago World's Fair. The sights, smells, and sounds took me to the grounds of the huge event. The Christian message weaved throughout the story in a pleasant way. It's apparent the author did her research. (a lot of research) History brought alive with a plot that keeps the read interesting.

[Janeen Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

So excited to read all of the “Fair Series” Book One got me hooked and i was amazed at how the great author really has a knack for drawing you in as she details the history of the era in which the story takes place! Love the romance and young Christian’s love that blossoms between the characters…

Mrs Purvis is a unique character and her quirkiness is well written - you certainly get to know and love her as the book and the rest of the series unfolds! Hope ya’all enjoy this great author as read all 3 in the series!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an enjoyable book to read given the setting at the 1893 World Fair in Chicago. The author did an absolutely amazing job of describing the 600 acre fair grounds & I kept finding myself wishing I could go back in time to visit it & see all the things displayed in 1893! I googled all the images I could find & throughly enjoyed learning about this. The story line was also engaging so I have just downloaded the next 2 in the series.

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intriguing story revolving around events at the world Columbian Exposition in 1893 in Chicago. Annie and her deceased husband, Will’s partner take their invention - a horseless carriage to the fair to exhibit and hopefully seek investors, in the process they get mixed up with political intrigue, are threatened by her in laws and a new man enters her life.

[Barbara G. Graybill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great reading

An action packed mystery and romance set in the White City, the World’s Fair in Chicago that was the first great exposition of electricity, motorized vehicles, and the US as a world reader. The characters are delightful and thought producing. Kudos to the author and editors.

[Teresa Merriman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this exciting story that took place during the World’s Fair in Chicago. There was so much to learn about the fair and the people who attended. The storyline kept me on the edge of my seat and I love the characters!

[Dawn Klinge · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Columbian Exposition in Chicago is such a fun setting for this exciting book. I loved the intrigue and historical details. The author obviously did a lot of research, and it was a sweet love story with some excitement, all of which made this book super enjoyable.

[Linda Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great historical novel!

A great love story set in the late 1800’s in Chicago. I loved the history of the great fair and all it entailed. Intrigue and suspense too. My favorite kind of book.

[Terry Yaceyko · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun read. Enjoyed Annie, Silas, and Nick.

[LINDSAY · Rating 3 out of 5]

Romantic. Love the strong female lead. But needed more umph to the love story.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first book I have read by Carol Cox. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.

[esc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Adventure!

I enjoyed this mystery/romance taking place during the Chicago World's Fair very much. Very nicely written and kept me interested to the very end.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Historical Romance

Intriguing period of time- Chicago Fair! Loved the characters in the book- Anne, Silas, Nick, Mrs. Purvis. Just the right amount of suspense and romance!

[Esperanza G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed !

I enjoyed the story line, the excitement, and the mystery all wrapped into this book. I would definitely recommend it!

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

[Ellie Pirelli · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed the scenery and the assassination conspiracy plot. The romance part was a bit boring and the christian themes too much for my taste.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book that had romance, mystery, and faith.

[Terri · Rating 3 out of 5]

I probably could sum up the plot in one sentence The story moved enough just took a while to get to the climax which wasn’t very exciting so it did drag I’m glad I read it but one time is plenty

[D-lyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story and it was fun to read. I really wish I could go back in time to the Chicago Worlds Fair. This book gets you pretty close! Very entertaining and it is nice to have an adventure story with a nice romantic plot! (no yucky stuff!) Having read her other Worlds Fair book I enjoyed seeing characters from the other book through the eyes of different folks! I really had fun reading it.

[Sandy Duke · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had a big of a slow start for me, but it picked up interest and speed as the plot progressed. Well fleshed-out characters, interesting historical setting, unexpected romance, and international intrigue. The main character's faith is practical and woven into her thoughts and actions naturally and without any preachiness. I enjoyed the interesting tidbits about Chicago's World's Columbian Exposition of 1893.

[Trish · Rating 3 out of 5]

The World's Fair makes a great backdrop for the story, and the characters are interesting, but I found myself getting impatient with the story. The mystery was pretty weak, and I just felt it was about 50 pages too long trying to "build up" for the big ending.

[Savannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Usually when I read a romance or a adventure there is to much of one or the other but this one is a perfect mix! Loved it.