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 … 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?
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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 loved this story. It is Christian based but not the type that is gushing in your face. The characters are wonderful and I like what happens at the end. To me, it was realistic, as I have followed the wagon train trail visiting many of the places mentioned in the story. I have a family letter that was written in 1850 about a family member that took that trail. Can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.
Now I need the next one. I want to see Lady Ann find her uncle.
This was a great book. I admired the spunk and fortitude of Elise and Anne as they left England to come to America and then join a wagon train west. I also liked the way Eb saw that they learned to pull their weight on the journey and came to admire them, also. The characters in this book were great and I loved the adventure. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series to find out what happens to Anne. I would recommend this book.
I found it to be an interesting concept of an aristocratic English lady and her maid joining a wagon train going West. After living a life of being served, they had much to learn about living on the trail, but they took it as it came and were able to get by, with the help of new found friends. It was a fun read and I enjoyed it a lot.
Unforgettable characters and fun to read! Hope there’s a sequel.
This was a good series. The first book was well written and prompted me to read all three. Anyone of the books can be read individually and it is difficult to rank which I liked the best.
Lady Ann Stone’s father dies and she is left with a small pension and nowhere to live. She needs to find her Uncle David Stone to continue living in her family estate in England or lose it all.
She takes her lady’s maid, Elise, to America in search of him. They trade their silks and fine clothing for calico and end up on a wagon train bound West to Oregon.
The story is somewhat funny as these pampered ladies must learn survival and everyday skills on the trail. Friendships, romance and a few twists in their plans develop as they travel.
This book will keep you guessing if they will ever make it to Oregon and find Lady Ann’s Uncle. I really enjoyed this book.
Enjoyable read.
Pleasant story, Two young English women come to America looking for a lost relative, and find new more exciting lives here.
This book gives a nice feel for the time, as the ladies discover what life is like for pioneers.
I loved “riding along” with the characters as they traveled to California in a covered wagon. Interesting to think about what life might have been like then.
I didn’t want to put it down.
Took to long to get to the good part of the story. Needed a stronger plot to encourage the reader to not lay the book down.
Good story–I usually do not like “Go West Young Man” fiction, but these characters were well developed. It was interesting that the main romantic character was the maid not the lady. The events were not extremely tragic or action packed–not like I expected for two women alone on a wagon train–but were unpredictable enough to keep me interested.
Ended a little to abruptly BUT left me wanting to read next book in series!
Clean, predictable, sweet story.
Not very realistic but it was a fun book.
I loved this book so much that I bought the series. I love the characters. I did not want to put it down!!
This was a little twist on the wagon train romance with a little mystery to keep you curious. Some that was predictable. But the end kept you wanting to read the next book because you’re not sure that it gave you the happily ever after ending you are seeking.
I love happily ever after, if it is not smarmy. This is worth the time. I’ve never read this author and now will look for her books.