Amethyst
by Lauraine Snelling
Published by Bethany House Publishers
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Reviewed by Sharon Broom
Amethyst is book four in the Dakotah Treasures series: Ruby, Pearl, Opal and Amethyst.
It's 1886 in Eastern Pennsylvania when Amethyst Colleen O'Shaunasy is directed by her father, to "Go find Joel." Amethyst has no idea where her eight-year-old nephew is, but if she doesn't find him before her father dies, she won't have a home because "women can't inherit property." And that statement came from her father's mouth; harsh man and drinker that he is. Basically, he's a "stinker."
Amethyst begins her journey after learning that young Joel went west with a Jacob Chandler. She becomes ill after a meal in St. Paul, Minnesota and when she arrives in Medora, she is still ill. She is cared for by a family whose other guest is Major Jeremiah McHenry. McHenry had retired from the military and returned to his home town.
Amethyst and Jeremiah fall in love, but to stay with her love means she will not honor the demands of her father to find Joel. There are other problems that seem insurmountable but Amethyst's faith gives her the strength and courage she needs. The questions are: Is Joel found? Can Amethyst and Jeremiah survive their issues? Ah, it's an interesting journey in finding the answers.
I don't read much in the historical fiction area and admit that I haven't read the first three books in this series. I did, however, thoroughly enjoy Amethyst and believe that while it is connected to the other three books, it stands alone. It's an enjoyable read and one that captured my attention enough that I will look for Ms. Snelling's next book.
Armchair Interview says: A good read with a satisfying ending that turned back time with the memories of my own happily ever after, oh so many years ago.