She’s desperate to find her missing father. His conscience demands he risk all to help.Eliza Brooks is haunted by her role in her mother’s death, so she’ll do anything to find her missing pa—even if it means sneaking aboard a southbound ship. When those meant to protect her abandon and betray her instead, a family friend’s unexpected assistance is a blessing she can’t refuse.Daniel Clarke came to … she can’t refuse.
Daniel Clarke came to California to make his fortune, and a stable job as a San Francisco carpenter has earned him more than most have scraped from the local goldfields. But it’s been four years since he left Massachusetts and his fiancée is impatient for his return. Bound for home at last, Daniel Clarke finds his heart and plans challenged by a tenacious young woman with haunted eyes. Though every word he utters seems to offend her, he is determined to see her safely returned to her father. Even if that means risking his fragile engagement.
When disaster befalls them in the remote wilderness of the Southern California mountains, true feelings are revealed, and both must face heart-rending decisions. But how to decide when every choice before them leads to someone getting hurt?
more
A wonderful introduction to an author that is new to me, this book just makes me want to read more! The characters are either lovable or you want to shake some sense into them. Eliza is stubborn, headstrong and blaming herself for her mother’s death when she was just a child. Thus she has taken on what she feels is her job – taking care of her father – a tough situation for a young lady to be in.
Uncle Henry is just the sweetest and Aunt Celilia is one of those you’d love to shake! Daniel is a gentleman, honest to a fault, a hero that anyone would love. Back in Massachusetts are several other characters that lend credence to my earlier impression of Daniel.
What follows is a story that will have you laughing, sometimes frustrated and certainly wanting to impart some practical wisdom to several of the characters. There is adventure and disaster, suspense and romance in this well researched historical novel. Will the search in the mountains bring the answers Eliza desires?
This e-copy was received through Wild Heart Books and CelebrateLit. The impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.
I’m always hesitant when reading a story from a new to me author. But my hesitation was not necessary this time. Kathleen Denly did a wonderful job at creating vivid characters. To the point where I was physically frustrated with Eliza Brooks and her stubbornness at times. And who could help not falling in love with Daniel Clarke.
Kathleen also did an amazing job at taking the reader from the busy streets of San Francisco to the wilderness of southern California. The description of the settings was beautifully done. I will be reading the next book in the series.
I loved this book so much I read it in one sitting. I loved Eliza. Such strength and independence. Daniel is a honorable man. Great characters and a wonderful plot fiction mixed with history. I can’t wait to read more in this series.
Waltz in the Wilderness is the first book in the Chaparral Hearts series by Kathleen Denly. It follows a young woman, Eliza Brooks, as she searches for her father in Southern California’s wilderness with the help of an honorable–and engaged to be married–gentleman, Daniel Clarke.
I enjoyed Eliza and Daniel’s story. The author’s research into the history of the time provided a rich detail to the story’s landscape, whether in the luxurious home of Eliza’s uncle or the mountainous wilderness of Southern California. The little details helped bring the story to life off the page and fill the reader’s imagination. I always love learning while I’m reading when it comes to historical fiction, and this novel fits the bill!
I related to Eliza’s struggle to maintain a sense of control when it came to her life and those she loves. She is headstrong, courageous, and has a fierce loyalty to those she loves, but I loved getting to know her weaknesses and watching her strive to improve herself with the Lord’s help. I also held great respect for Daniel and his unwavering honor. Life is full of trials and temptations, but Daniel was an example of remaining true to his word not only for his honor but for God’s as well.
Overall, I enjoyed this adventurous, charming, and heartfelt story. As I grew closer to the end, it grew harder and harder to put the book down. If you enjoy adventurous, western-based novels, you will enjoy Eliza and Daniels’ journey in Waltz in the Wilderness. I’m looking forward to the next novel in the series, Sing in the Sunlight.
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
A Waltz in the Wilderness is a solid debut with an engaging plot. I enjoyed all of the historical details about California in the early days of cities like San Francisco and San Diego. The descriptions of the natural landscape – including both the beauty and dangers (flash flood, anyone?) are finely done. I felt fully immersed in the setting. I love a story that involves a journey, so that was my favorite aspect of the plot.
Eliza is a tough lady to like at first. She comes across as way too headstrong for my tastes at first, however, the glimpses of development gave me hope that she was going to change over the course of the story, and happily, she does. Daniel is noble loyal man. Both he and Eliza are determined to do the right thing by others, even when it’s the opposite of what they themselves want. The romance is tender, and the secondary characters add a variety of flavor to the story – some are admirable components to the current story, while others you hope might have their own story in a future book.
I recommend Waltz in the Wilderness to fans of sweet historical romances. I definitely hope to read the next book in the series.
My thanks to the author for a review copy of this novel; I was not required to post a positive review, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
What a wonderful book! The author brings the story to life with her words, you can see the scenery and feel all the emotions. Eliza and Daniel’s story will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. This is an inspirational story that is full of adventure. I highly recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really enjoyed Waltz in the Wilderness. The slow building chemistry between Eliza and Daniel was very believable. The characters were well written and had interesting personalities. They were flawed in a way that is very human. There was some air of mystery, but not overwhelmingly. The romance was not too heavy, either. A few scenes that were somewhat passionate, but very clean and again, well written and believable. I liked the time period and setting, 1850’s California, during the Gold Rush era. Daniel is such a true gentleman, it was nice reading a character so honest, humble and honorable.
I recommend this book to readers who like christian historical fiction.
In her debut novel Waltz in the Wilderness, Ms. Denly pens a captivating, inspiring narrative set in California in the 1850s. An obsession to find a wayward father, an impertinent sea captain, an “unexpected benefactor”, a storm at sea and subsequent shipwreck, a treacherous mountain journey, and a spiritual awakening combine to make an easy-to-read story that flows at a fitting pace. Dual storylines are skillfully meshed. The characters are well-developed, realistic, and engaging. I especially like the headstrong, independent heroine Eliza although at times I had to stop and say, “Seriously?”
The vivid descriptive language and sensory imagery transport the reader to the scene whether it be the storm-tossed sea, the rapidly-growing cities, or the beautiful, imposing mountains. This imagery is one example: “The pockmarked moon stared at her through the trees.” Real historical people and places are interestingly and expertly infused into this fictional tale of faith and adventure.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading Sing in the Sunlight, the next book in the Chaparral Hearts Series. I highly recommend this book.
A very enjoyable read! The continuing theme that runs throughout this story is surrender. Giving God control of our lives is sometimes the most difficult thing to do. Following Eliza’s story of learning to do this is very engaging. The historical details of the West was well written and brought it to life. I really enjoyed the relationship between Eliza and Daniel blossom as well. I found their banter and spark delightful. Waltz in the Wilderness is a well thought out, relatable story that will keep your interest and leave you wanting more! I am really looking forward to the next book in this series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I chose this book to review because I love the beautiful cover! And I am glad I had the opportunity to read Walz in the Wilderness! I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Eliza Brooks was committed to her pa, and she would go through anything, including giving up everything she has, as well as walk through whatever dangers it takes to find him. At first I felt really sorry for Eliza, but the more I read, the more I realize that she is well capable of taking care of herself, and she doesn’t want sympathy! I did have a difficult time understanding her pa though. I know he had to do a little tough love with her, but he could have considered her feelings a lot more than he did.
I also like Daniel very much, and was glad Eliza had him to protect her in the times she forgot she needed to be careful. All of the characters were well created, and I enjoyed watching them develop throughout the story, except for the one, and every story has to have a villain in the story to keep us interested! The vivid descriptions of each scene took me to the California mountains, leaving me with a feeling that I had been there back in that era in time. Which was a very different California than it is today.
Kathleen Deny is a new author for me, and I look forward to other books from her in the future! If you enjoy historical fiction and mountain living, you will enjoy this book. Of course there’s lots more to this story, but not knowing it all is the fun of reading the book for yourself!
I would like to thank the author/publisher fir a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Waltz in the Wilderness by Kathleen Denly has my feel-good nod of approval. Not only did it satisfy my reading soul, but it gave me real substance to chew on as I contemplated the characters and their response to untenable circumstances.
I fell in love with strong-headed, one-purpose Eliza Brooks and Daniel Clark, her uncle’s employee who becomes her reluctant escort.
Other characters I couldn’t stand at all, while I wondered how the people around them could stomach them.
The novel is pretty predictable, though fun until certain secondary characters decide to take over the story as if they don’t like where the author was taking them. One character challenges Eliza to compare her motives in her search for her father with Scripture directives. Then we are allowed to see what Eliza will do about her willfulness that she has until now labeled ”responsibility.” I got so deeply into the story that my mind was boggled by the weight these characters bore, who stood up and developed a backbone and changed the course of the story. I really wanted to know more about what life is like for them, and perhaps we’ll find out. I appreciated clear explanations of faith, themes of feeling undeserving of God’s love, and the need to truly trust Him to care for ourselves and others. It obviously affected the players’ daily lives. This story does include to some degree the sad effects slavery and prejudice have on people who are different from their abusers.
I loved this book and I highly recommend it. If you like reading Miralee Ferrell or Misty Beller, you will like Kathleen Denly.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit. This does not influence my opinions, for which I am solely responsible.
What I think you should know:
Waltz in the Wilderness is a Christian Historical Romance, it is the first book in the Chaparral Hearts Series by Kathleen Denly. The majority of the book is set in California in 1854. It follows Eliza who will not let anyone or anything keep her from searching for her father. Daniel Clarke has spent four years in California to make enough money to go home and claim his fiance and provide the life for her that she longs for.
What I think about Waltz in the Wilderness:
Eliza is such a fun character, she starts off the book dressing as a boy so that she can safely stay with her father in the gold fields, learning to be a lady that lives up to her aunt’s expectations is near impossible when her heart longs to be with her Dad. She was also a contradiction despite having raised her father in the wilderness, she was naive to the ways of the world. Daniel was such a great hero for a girl who was determined that she wanted to be her own hero. I enjoyed their interaction, I couldn’t wait to see how things were going to turn out. Denly has a wonderful start to a series, I will keep coming back for more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Waltz in the Wilderness
Waltz in the Wilderness had me hook from the very first word. Eli and her father are left on their own after her mother dies. He takes her to his brother’s place to stay while he goes to work. After she quits getting letters from him she takes off to find him.
I loved the adventures Eli had in trying to find her father. First on the boat and then the Wilderness. She meets Daniel who helps with finding her father. I loved Eli character, she was so determined to find her father. Nothing was going to stop her.
The author is new to me. I loved the writing of the author. The words just flow making the book so easy to read. I will be reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.
This was a very enjoyable historical romance. I really liked Eliza even though she was very stubborn. It was interesting to read how she was not going to forget about her father. I liked reading about the historical aspects also. There were some parts when she was with her Uncle that had me crying. I really loved some of the descriptions of the scenery. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
Waltz in the Wilderness by author Kathleen Denly is a Christian Historical Romance and book One in the Chaparral Hearts Series. This is the first book I have read by the author and will not be the last. It was a delightful story that caught my attention immediately.
Author Denly has an impressive writing style. The story and characters drew me in from the beginning. Descriptions made things come to life without being boring. Her characters were likable, well rounded, and relatable. She includes twist and subplots that kept me turning pages to see what would happen next. Faith and God are not hidden in her novel. That is important in a Christian book.
Eliza Brooks is a strong, feisty woman with a strong protective love for her father. It is easy to live this character even with her flaws. Many times I found myself nodding or shaking my head as I read this book at the things she did.
Daniel Clarke is preparing to leave California and return to Boston. That is where he will be reunited with his family and fiancée. Plans change when Eliza veers him off his course.
This book is such a great story. It has danger, romance, mystery, history, and inspiration. At the end, there are questions for discussion. I love it when an author includes those. There is also a sample of the next book. I would highly recommend this captivating tale by author Denly. I rate it a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
Waltz in the Wilderness was a great trek back in time to the rugged land of California. I liked Eliza and Daniel and felt for them as they both began to experience feelings of love for each other while Daniel was still betrothed to another. I appreciated that Daniel and Eliza both respected that engagement, even as it caused them pain to do so.
I really enjoyed reading about their travels up into the mountains and what they ended up discovering up there. The side story involving Alice was also interesting and I liked the way the author gave little glimpses throughout the novel as to what had been going on in Alice’s life during the time that she wasn’t answering Daniel’s letters.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
My Thoughts on Waltz in the Wilderness:
I love a good book and this definitely falls into that category! Sometimes you have to hurt people to heal. And hurt people can lash out. But, those that truly matter aren’t going to turn their back to you when you’re in trouble.
Poor Eliza has such guilt over her mother’s death. She’s off to find her father now. He’s missing but that doesn’t stop her! She’s bound and determined. When no one goes with her and she’s striking out on her own she gains the attention of Daniel. He’s concerned for her and decides he will help her. She’s not exactly receptive of his help though and some hilarity will ensue.
I have to say I really enjoyed this book. The travel by sea instead of the wagon was fun and I felt for poor Eliza without her parents struggling to decide on her path in life. Her aunt and uncle can’t seem to get the job done of making her a proper lady. I’m pretty sure I would have been the same way!
Highly recommend this book and this author. This was the first book I read by this author and I will be following her and waiting for the next book in this series. I love historical fiction and this is a great one to read. Not only will you learn some history facts but also some about the people of society during the time period.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Kathleen has written an exciting historic, romantic, adventure set in the 1800’s in California. She has quite a way with descriptions and dialog that will inspire readers and other writers. One learns much about this time period during the thrilling inspirational love story of Eliza and Daniel. I recommend this book to all historical romance readers and give it five stars.
Elva Cobb Martin, multi-published novelist and President of ACFW-SC Chapter.
A promising beginning to the Chaparral Hearts series by Kathleen Denly, “Waltz in the Wilderness” combines the best of westerns, adventure and survival stories, and of course romance. This is a story that I think is best enjoyed without reading the synopsis first, which is a practice I always employ to avoid knowing how the story might play out. As I read, I was so glad that I went in blind because the characters and the plot were surprising in ways that they would not have been otherwise.
Historically a fan of solely historical pioneer fiction, for the past several years or so I have branched out and have been exploring other genres, historical in particular, including Westerns. As soon as I saw the cover for “Waltz in the Wilderness”, coupled with the whimsical yet mysterious title, I knew that I had to request a copy to review. Like others that I have read in recent months, this book manages to inject the story with interesting detail and subplots; there is no lull in the action, but I also did not feel overwhelmed. This is such an important distinction to make, and it can make or break the book. With “Waltz in the Wilderness”, what drew me in the most were the characters.
Far from the fainting heroine waiting for her knight in shining armor, Eliza Brooks has grown accustomed to carrying her own and her pa’s burdens. When he goes missing, however, Eliza must rustle up every bit of her courage as she embarks upon her quest to find him. Although at times I shook my head at her naiveté, for the most part she demonstrates extraordinary strength of character, tempered occasionally by gaffes that make her human.
Daniel Clarke, whose introduction to Eliza gets off on the wrong foot, is preparing to leave California to return to his family and fiancée in Boston. However, crossing paths with Eliza steers him off his course as the two decide to navigate the treacherous Southern California mountains. “She was, without a doubt, the most exasperating woman God had ever created.” It is their tenacity and resilient spirits that urge them on, deepening their faith and their own friendship, but will it be enough?
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Debut author Kathleen Denly takes readers from the gold mines of California to the bustling and thriving city of San Francisco then on to the Pacific Ocean and into the mountains.
I admit there were several times I didn’t care for Eliza. Occasionally, she came across as haughty despite her previous humble circumstances. Yet, as she embarks on her search and the hurts from her past and dreams for her future are revealed, my opinion of her was successfully swayed.
Daniel is honorable, humble, and kind-hearted from the moment he walks onto the page. His desire to do the right thing despite his own pain is frustrating but admirable.
From the descriptive passages of the California landscapes to the cast of characters and engaging plot, Denly weaves a story that drew me in and held me captive until the fully satisfying ending. This is one author to watch.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.