Book Review: The Measure of Katie Calloway by Serena Miller

Excerpt: She prayed long hours as the train swayed over hills and valleys, begging God to show her the way to provide for their needs when her remaining coins were gone. She had prayed so many times before, when Harlan had been hurting her, that her faith was quite low, but a smidgen had begun to return with each mile that took her farther from her husband. With all her heart she prayed that God would lead her to honest work and make it possible for her to care for her brother. Nothing would be too hard. Nothing would be beneath her. At twenty-eight she was as strong as she would ever be. She would do whatever it took.

In spite of all she had endured, she felt a lifting of spirits as they stepped off the train into this bustling city. She was no longer the shy, innocent girl who had said yes the moment Harlan Calloway had proposed marriage. Her struggle with shyness had faded along with the bruises. Whatever it took, no matter how hard she had to work - she would survive. The Measure of Katie Calloway, pg 16.

Back Cover: Her heart seeks sanctuary in the deep woods. But will trouble find her even here?

The Civil War has ended, but in Katie Calloway's Georgia home, conflict still rages. To protect herself and her young brother from her violent and unstable husband, she flees north, finding anonymity and sanctuary as the cook in a north woods lumber camp. The camp owner, Robert Foster, wonders if the lovely woman he's hired has the grit to survive the never-ending work and harsh conditions of a remote pine forest in winter. Katie wonders if she can keep her past a secret from a man she is slowly growing to love.

With grace and skill, Serena Miller brings to life a bygone era. From the ethereal, snowy forest and the rowdy shanty boys to the warm cookstove and mouth-watering apple pie, every detail is perfectly rendered, transporting you to a time of danger and romance.

My Review: I loved this book! Not often do I find an historical fiction set in my back yard. Having been born and raised in Michigan, I thoroughly enjoyed reading out the "swamps" back in the logging days of the state. Serena did an amazing job bringing the characters to life, and adding the drama that kept me turning pages. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen with Katie as she tried to make her way, escaping the abuse of her husband. A well-done and enjoyable read!

My Rating:

My Recommendation: I highly recommend this book for lovers of historical fiction.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.