Title: Lone Star Trail by Darlene Franklin
The Texas Trails Series Book 1
Publisher: Moody Publishers
Genre: Inspirational, Historical, Romance
Length: 272 pages
Book Rating: B+
Review Copy Obtained from Publisher Through NetGalley
Summary:
The six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896 begins with Lone Star Trail.
Judson (Jud) Morgan’s father died for Texas’ freedom during the war for independence. So when the Society for the Protection of German Immigrants in Texas (the Verein) attempts to colonize a New Germany in his country, he takes a stand against them.
After Wande Fleischers’ fiancée marries someone else, the young fraulein determines to make new life for herself in Texas. With the help of Jud’s sister Marion, Wande learns English and becomes a trusted friend to the entire Morgan family.
As much as Jud dislikes the German invasion, he can’t help admiring Wande. She is sweet and cheerful as she serves the Lord and all those around her. Can the rancher put aside his prejudice to forge a new future?
Through Jud and Wande, we learn the powerful lessons of forgiveness and reconciliation among a diverse community of believers.
The Review:
Lone Star Trail by Darlene Franklin is a captivating story about faith, friendship, family, and ultimately, love. From their first meeting, the Fleischers find their new life in America closely intertwined with the Morgans, a deeply rooted Texas family.
Strong character development brings Lone Star Trail vividly to life. Wande Fleischer is a hard working and cheerful young woman who quickly adjusts to her new life. Texas is a harsh land that exacts a heavy toll on the Fleischer family, but Wande’s strong faith guides her through life’s joys and sorrows.
With his father’s untimely death, Jud Morgan was forced to grow up quickly and become the man of the family. Fiercely loyal to the state that has taken so much from him, he distrusts the German immigrants. When misfortune befalls the Fleischer family, Jud begrudgingly offers his assistance. Initially suspicious of the German customs and traditions that Wande introduces, Jud slowly realizes he shares the same values and faith as the Fleischer family and the German community.
Well rounded secondary characters provide depth and tension to this tightly plotted novel. Marion Morgan’s unconditional friendship eases Wande’s transition to her new life. An additional subplot revolving around Marion presents added conflict and interest to Lone Star Trail.
In Lone Star Trail, Darlene Franklin teaches an understated yet powerful lesson about acceptance that transcends time and culture. The underlying message of faith is gently and subtly demonstrated by the actions and thoughts of all of the key characters.
Lone Star Trail is a richly drawn and multi-layered novel. Fans of historical inspirational fiction are going to love this first installment of The Texas Trail series.
Originally posted at The Reader’s Roundtable