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Pioneer Promises #2
Call of the Prairie
A Young Woman Dreaming of Freedom...
Sophie Davenport feels like a prisoner in her own house. In her twenty–two years, her overprotective parents have taken every possible measure to keep her from anything that might exacerbate her asthma–in other words, just about everything but reading and needlework. Yet Sophie longs for adventure...and for love. She corresponds clandestinely with a would–be suitor, until they meet and her wheezing scares him off. It seems her fragile health just might sentence her to a lifetime of monotonous inactivity.
A Young Man Dreaming of a Family...
Josh Harper is far more bookish than his brawny brothers. The middle child, he enjoys helping at his family's stagecoach stop in Kansas, where he spends a great deal of time crafting furniture and other items out of wood. But, before long, his book smarts draw him to the nearby city of Windmill, where he begins work as manager of his uncle's bank. He also looks after his niece and nephew, who spend their weeks in town to attend school. The change of scenery is welcome, but Josh yearns for a family of his own. Too bad eligible females are not plenteous on the prairie.
A Reality That Seems to Stand in the Way...
When Sophie's aunt, a resident of Windmill, falls ill and requires help, Sophie volunteers. Despite his hesitation, her father finally relents and lets her go, as there is no other option. Her new role brings her into contact with the children boarding at her aunt's home–and with the handsome uncle of two of them. Is there a larger purpose in her coming to Windmill? Or will Josh Harper reject her, if not for her frail health, then for the rocky nature of their relationship?
Sophie Davenport feels like a prisoner in her own house. In her twenty–two years, her overprotective parents have taken every possible measure to keep her from anything that might exacerbate her asthma–in other words, just about everything but reading and needlework. Yet Sophie longs for adventure...and for love. She corresponds clandestinely with a would–be suitor, until they meet and her wheezing scares him off. It seems her fragile health just might sentence her to a lifetime of monotonous inactivity.
A Young Man Dreaming of a Family...
Josh Harper is far more bookish than his brawny brothers. The middle child, he enjoys helping at his family's stagecoach stop in Kansas, where he spends a great deal of time crafting furniture and other items out of wood. But, before long, his book smarts draw him to the nearby city of Windmill, where he begins work as manager of his uncle's bank. He also looks after his niece and nephew, who spend their weeks in town to attend school. The change of scenery is welcome, but Josh yearns for a family of his own. Too bad eligible females are not plenteous on the prairie.
A Reality That Seems to Stand in the Way...
When Sophie's aunt, a resident of Windmill, falls ill and requires help, Sophie volunteers. Despite his hesitation, her father finally relents and lets her go, as there is no other option. Her new role brings her into contact with the children boarding at her aunt's home–and with the handsome uncle of two of them. Is there a larger purpose in her coming to Windmill? Or will Josh Harper reject her, if not for her frail health, then for the rocky nature of their relationship?
272 pages, Paperback
First published November 26, 2013
2 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Vickie McDonough
95 books371 followersOver 1.5 million books sold!
Bestselling author Vickie McDonough grew up wanting to marry a rancher, but instead, she married a computer geek who is scared of horses. She now lives out her dreams penning romance stories about ranchers, cowboys, lawmen, and others living in the Old West. Vickie is a best-selling author of more than 50 published books and novellas, with over 1.5 million copies sold. Her novels include End of the Trail, winner of the OWFI 2013 Booksellers Best Fiction Novel Award. Whispers on the Prairie was a Romantic Times Recommended Inspirational Book for July 2013. Song of the Prairie won the 2015 Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Gabriel’s Atonement, book 1 in the Land Rush Dreams series, placed second in the 2016 Will Rogers Medallion Award. Vickie has recently stepped into independent publishing.
Vickie has been married for forty-one years to Robert. They have four grown sons, one daughter-in-law, and a precocious granddaughter. When she’s not writing, Vickie enjoys reading, antiquing, doing stained glass, watching movies, and traveling. To learn more about Vickie’s books or to sign up for her newsletter, visit her website: www.vickiemcdonough.com
Bestselling author Vickie McDonough grew up wanting to marry a rancher, but instead, she married a computer geek who is scared of horses. She now lives out her dreams penning romance stories about ranchers, cowboys, lawmen, and others living in the Old West. Vickie is a best-selling author of more than 50 published books and novellas, with over 1.5 million copies sold. Her novels include End of the Trail, winner of the OWFI 2013 Booksellers Best Fiction Novel Award. Whispers on the Prairie was a Romantic Times Recommended Inspirational Book for July 2013. Song of the Prairie won the 2015 Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Gabriel’s Atonement, book 1 in the Land Rush Dreams series, placed second in the 2016 Will Rogers Medallion Award. Vickie has recently stepped into independent publishing.
Vickie has been married for forty-one years to Robert. They have four grown sons, one daughter-in-law, and a precocious granddaughter. When she’s not writing, Vickie enjoys reading, antiquing, doing stained glass, watching movies, and traveling. To learn more about Vickie’s books or to sign up for her newsletter, visit her website: www.vickiemcdonough.com
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 23, 2013
I enjoyed my visit back with the Harper family. Even though this book focuses on Josh, we do get updates on the rest of them.
We first meet Sophia Davenport, who lives a very sheltered and protected life, almost like living in a glass bubble. She has asthma, and her parents don't want her to do anything!
She receives the chance of a lifetime when she is asked to go and just sit with her aunt in Windmill, Kansas. I can only imagine what a life line this must have felt like. Free at last, she must have felt.
You will be absorbed in this real to life prairie town. You will also be astounded at the resilience Sophie shows, even with her problems. Of course there is some danger, hidden treasure?, sad moments, and romance. There is also a lot of compassion show to these children, who were under her aunts care.
I am ready for the next book in this series, don't miss this one.
I received this book through First Wild Card Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
We first meet Sophia Davenport, who lives a very sheltered and protected life, almost like living in a glass bubble. She has asthma, and her parents don't want her to do anything!
She receives the chance of a lifetime when she is asked to go and just sit with her aunt in Windmill, Kansas. I can only imagine what a life line this must have felt like. Free at last, she must have felt.
You will be absorbed in this real to life prairie town. You will also be astounded at the resilience Sophie shows, even with her problems. Of course there is some danger, hidden treasure?, sad moments, and romance. There is also a lot of compassion show to these children, who were under her aunts care.
I am ready for the next book in this series, don't miss this one.
I received this book through First Wild Card Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
August 8, 2015
I really liked the story. It was also well written. I like how things get resolved quickly. However, I don't like the disrespect for her parents. I know it was a difficult circumstance for the main character, but as a Christian book, I would have preferred to see her have a heart change towards them OR to somehow let the reader know it is wrong to be that way. I think people tend to be influenced to some degree by what they read, and the author allows this disrespectful behavior to go without consequence. But, it that isn't something that bothers you and if you are aware that that isn't good behavior, you will really enjoy the story.
February 19, 2014
The adventurous Sophie Davenport just wants to experience life to the fullest, but her parents worry about her health. Enter the bookish Josh Harper--and his rambunctious niece and nephew in his charge. He's not quite the swashbuckler of her dreams--in fact he really annoys her sometimes--but does God have a plan that will bless them both beyond their expectations?
McDonough does the prairie romance genre like no one else and weaves another wonderful tale of pioneer love and life in Call of The Prairie.
McDonough does the prairie romance genre like no one else and weaves another wonderful tale of pioneer love and life in Call of The Prairie.
August 8, 2015
Cute story! I love this author. I enjoyed the bit of intrigue that I wasn't originally expecting. My one issue was the heroine's attitude toward her parents.
January 14, 2025
Call of the Prairie is the second book in the Pioneer Promises trilogy, yet it can stand alone. Set in 1873 it is the story of a very sheltered young woman who suffers from severe asthma. She gets an unexpected chance to leave her wealthy home in St. Louis, Missouri and travel to small town Kansas to help her elderly aunt who recently suffered a fall. She arrives to much more than she expected but she wants to prove to her overly protective parents she can be independent. I enjoyed Sophie’s story and her determined can-do attitude. She is humble, kind, resilient, and in need of love and acceptance for who she is despite her condition. I liked how her religious faith manifested in the story and the sweet romance that comes her way.
g-dropping/grammar: leavin’, cheatin’, “A li’l thang like you?”, “ain’t got no need…”, pg 212 wimmen
Pg 125 following a public asthma attack MC thinks “Thank the Lord, the episode had passed.” Followed a little later by “Her heart jolted. Surely she hadn’t been undressed by the doctor-or, God forbid, Mr. Harper.” She is reassured that a female neighbor/friend helped her out of the clothes at the doctor’s request to make it easier for her to breathe. She had been given laudanum. It wasn’t clear cut but taking the character as a whole I lean towards these not taking the Lord's name in vain.
Attitudes: pg 46 women’s work (dishes); pg 54 9 yr old rolled her eyes about a meeting;
name calling: pg 55 dumb (child to child about adult); pg 56 snitch (child to child); pg 62 numbskull (child to adult about child peer, it is addressed); pg 127 “you dolt” (child to child, adult addresses it); pg 208 dunce (adult to adult); pg 221 sissy (adult to adult about adult)
pg 96 typo “away from a low-swooping hawk low caught Josh’s eye.”
pg 196 “Oh, pooh”
pg 221 children need to hide in pantry while adults determine who is in the house, older girl trying to reassure younger peer “C’mon. We’ll pretend were (should be we’re) hiding from Indians, and if they find us, they’ll scalp us, so we hav’ta be quiet.”
pg 252 seemed much too modern for the time period “Rules, schmules. Us country folk don’t conform to all those hoity-toity regulations you city folk do.”
g-dropping/grammar: leavin’, cheatin’, “A li’l thang like you?”, “ain’t got no need…”, pg 212 wimmen
Pg 125 following a public asthma attack MC thinks “Thank the Lord, the episode had passed.” Followed a little later by “Her heart jolted. Surely she hadn’t been undressed by the doctor-or, God forbid, Mr. Harper.” She is reassured that a female neighbor/friend helped her out of the clothes at the doctor’s request to make it easier for her to breathe. She had been given laudanum. It wasn’t clear cut but taking the character as a whole I lean towards these not taking the Lord's name in vain.
Attitudes: pg 46 women’s work (dishes); pg 54 9 yr old rolled her eyes about a meeting;
name calling: pg 55 dumb (child to child about adult); pg 56 snitch (child to child); pg 62 numbskull (child to adult about child peer, it is addressed); pg 127 “you dolt” (child to child, adult addresses it); pg 208 dunce (adult to adult); pg 221 sissy (adult to adult about adult)
pg 96 typo “away from a low-swooping hawk low caught Josh’s eye.”
pg 196 “Oh, pooh”
pg 221 children need to hide in pantry while adults determine who is in the house, older girl trying to reassure younger peer “C’mon. We’ll pretend were (should be we’re) hiding from Indians, and if they find us, they’ll scalp us, so we hav’ta be quiet.”
pg 252 seemed much too modern for the time period “Rules, schmules. Us country folk don’t conform to all those hoity-toity regulations you city folk do.”
November 22, 2023
I am really enjoying this 3 book series. So far Call of the Prairie is my favorite. I love children and orphans so this was right up my alley.
Happy to continue with the Harper brothers. Josh being much different than his brothers, more of an intellect and bookish guy. Some see him as weak, but I loved the author showing how many he was in physique, hero personality and working with his hands as well.
I really enjoyed Sophie’s character as well. Watching her blossom into her own person after being so controlled by her parents for so long. It was sweet to see when she made mistakes she corrected herself , went to the Lord and also to the person she had hurt.
I wanted to reach in and hug all the children, help feed and clothe them and Mikey for sure had my heart!
Happy to continue with the Harper brothers. Josh being much different than his brothers, more of an intellect and bookish guy. Some see him as weak, but I loved the author showing how many he was in physique, hero personality and working with his hands as well.
I really enjoyed Sophie’s character as well. Watching her blossom into her own person after being so controlled by her parents for so long. It was sweet to see when she made mistakes she corrected herself , went to the Lord and also to the person she had hurt.
I wanted to reach in and hug all the children, help feed and clothe them and Mikey for sure had my heart!
March 2, 2021
This is an enjoyable pioneer story set in Kansas in 1873. One thing I particularly found interesting is that the main female character was afflicted with asthma, and her family treated her like an invalid. They prevented her from having any kind of a normal life. Call of the Prairie is the second book in the Pioneer Promises series, but it can stand alone and you do not have to read the first book.
May 16, 2020
Enjoyed this book much more than the first in the series. Enjoyed the characters, especially Sophie who is so driven to handle all that is thrown her way. It was great to see the way Josh’s feelings for her developed.
September 8, 2017
Well-written, entertaining novel.
October 7, 2025
Sophie is very naive and stubborn. Goes well with story line but can get annoying. Wade Barnes will make you mad. Josh and very gentlemen-like.
August 20, 2014
Title: CALL OF THE PRAIRIE
Author: Vickie McDonough
Publisher: Whitaker House
Noverber 2013
ISBN: 978-1603749626
Genre: Historical romance
A Young Woman Dreaming of Freedom... A Young Man Dreaming of a Family... A Reality That Seems to Stand in the Way...
Sophie Davenport feels like a prisoner in her own house. In her twenty–two years, her overprotective parents have taken every possible measure to keep her from anything that might exacerbate her asthma–in other words, just about everything but reading and needlework. Yet Sophie longs for adventure...and for love. She corresponds clandestinely with a would–be suitor, until they meet and her wheezing scares him off. It seems her fragile health just might sentence her to a lifetime of monotonous inactivity.
Josh Harper is far more bookish than his brawny brothers. The middle child, he enjoys helping at his family's stagecoach stop in Kansas, where he spends a great deal of time crafting furniture and other items out of wood. But, before long, his book smarts draw him to the nearby city of Windmill, where he begins work as manager of his uncle's bank. He also looks after his niece and nephew, who spend their weeks in town to attend school. The change of scenery is welcome, but Josh yearns for a family of his own. Too bad eligible females are not plenteous on the prairie.
When Sophie's aunt, a resident of Windmill, falls ill and requires help, Sophie volunteers. Despite his hesitation, her father finally relents and lets her go, as there is no other option. Her new role brings her into contact with the children boarding at her aunt's home–and with the handsome uncle of two of them. Is there a larger purpose in her coming to Windmill? Or will Josh Harper reject her, if not for her frail health, then for the rocky nature of their relationship?
As I said in yesterday's review of Whispers on the Prairie, Ms. McDonough is very much a formula writer. In, CALL OF THE PRAIRIE, the second book of the Prairie Promises series, the mandatory death is still there, but it is the death of a dream. Sophie dreams of a normal life, of being a wife and mother, and she resents her loving parents for being a little too-concerned about her ill health. Josh is the bookish middle brother in his family and, like Sophie, wants to marry. But his problem is not ill health. It's a lack of females.
Fairly predictable, CALL OF THE PRAIRIE, as well as the first book in the series, are great books for lovers of prairie fiction. Fans of Janette Oke will love Ms. McDonough's stories. $10.62 Kindle. $12.99 paperback. 272 pages
Author: Vickie McDonough
Publisher: Whitaker House
Noverber 2013
ISBN: 978-1603749626
Genre: Historical romance
A Young Woman Dreaming of Freedom... A Young Man Dreaming of a Family... A Reality That Seems to Stand in the Way...
Sophie Davenport feels like a prisoner in her own house. In her twenty–two years, her overprotective parents have taken every possible measure to keep her from anything that might exacerbate her asthma–in other words, just about everything but reading and needlework. Yet Sophie longs for adventure...and for love. She corresponds clandestinely with a would–be suitor, until they meet and her wheezing scares him off. It seems her fragile health just might sentence her to a lifetime of monotonous inactivity.
Josh Harper is far more bookish than his brawny brothers. The middle child, he enjoys helping at his family's stagecoach stop in Kansas, where he spends a great deal of time crafting furniture and other items out of wood. But, before long, his book smarts draw him to the nearby city of Windmill, where he begins work as manager of his uncle's bank. He also looks after his niece and nephew, who spend their weeks in town to attend school. The change of scenery is welcome, but Josh yearns for a family of his own. Too bad eligible females are not plenteous on the prairie.
When Sophie's aunt, a resident of Windmill, falls ill and requires help, Sophie volunteers. Despite his hesitation, her father finally relents and lets her go, as there is no other option. Her new role brings her into contact with the children boarding at her aunt's home–and with the handsome uncle of two of them. Is there a larger purpose in her coming to Windmill? Or will Josh Harper reject her, if not for her frail health, then for the rocky nature of their relationship?
As I said in yesterday's review of Whispers on the Prairie, Ms. McDonough is very much a formula writer. In, CALL OF THE PRAIRIE, the second book of the Prairie Promises series, the mandatory death is still there, but it is the death of a dream. Sophie dreams of a normal life, of being a wife and mother, and she resents her loving parents for being a little too-concerned about her ill health. Josh is the bookish middle brother in his family and, like Sophie, wants to marry. But his problem is not ill health. It's a lack of females.
Fairly predictable, CALL OF THE PRAIRIE, as well as the first book in the series, are great books for lovers of prairie fiction. Fans of Janette Oke will love Ms. McDonough's stories. $10.62 Kindle. $12.99 paperback. 272 pages
January 23, 2016
CALL OF THE PRAIRIE is the second book in the Pioneer Promises series from Vickie McDonough.
Sophie Davenport has been treated like an invalid her entire life. Because of her asthma, her parents have controlled her every move. When a beau she has corresponded with proposes, she arranges for him to come to St. Louis to meet her parents. Her parents completely sabotage Sophie’s relationship and any hope she has of having a normal life. In a twist of fate, and against her father’s better judgment, Sophie goes to the city of Windmill to attend to her ailing Aunt. When she arrives, she finds her aunt’s condition more dire that expected and tries to do what she can to help her. She also inherits the care of five young children that her aunt cares for. When she encounters Josh Harper, the uncle of two of her charges, their meeting is anything but polite.
Josh Harper is president of Windmill bank, but his heart is still at home on his family’s ranch. He’s only taken the banking position to help with financial worries at home. He’s also agreed to watch over his niece and nephew so they can go to school in town. When he meets Sophie Davenport he is less than impressed with her skills to handle young children. But, the more Josh gets to know Sophie, the more he’s attracted to her.
Sophie’s time in Windmill is nothing as she imagined. Her aunt is very ill, she had five rambunctious kids to take care of, and she allows her head to be turned by not only Josh Harper but Wade Barnes as well. But she’s never felt better. For once, she is taking care of herself, doing her own cooking and cleaning, and finally feeling as if she’s really living. If only her heart wasn’t so fickle.
I really enjoyed CALL OF THE PRAIRIE. You could feel Sophie’s frustration and rooted for her to continue her life in Windmill. I liked her feistiness and unwillingness to give in to circumstance. And of course, Josh made for a great hero. My only complaint would be Sophie’s constant belaboring of the point regarding her circumstances. We all knew her history so to be reminded of it time and time again was a bit distracting. But, that’s not enough to deter me from looking forward to the next installment in the Pioneer Promises series.
Book provided for review purposes.
Sophie Davenport has been treated like an invalid her entire life. Because of her asthma, her parents have controlled her every move. When a beau she has corresponded with proposes, she arranges for him to come to St. Louis to meet her parents. Her parents completely sabotage Sophie’s relationship and any hope she has of having a normal life. In a twist of fate, and against her father’s better judgment, Sophie goes to the city of Windmill to attend to her ailing Aunt. When she arrives, she finds her aunt’s condition more dire that expected and tries to do what she can to help her. She also inherits the care of five young children that her aunt cares for. When she encounters Josh Harper, the uncle of two of her charges, their meeting is anything but polite.
Josh Harper is president of Windmill bank, but his heart is still at home on his family’s ranch. He’s only taken the banking position to help with financial worries at home. He’s also agreed to watch over his niece and nephew so they can go to school in town. When he meets Sophie Davenport he is less than impressed with her skills to handle young children. But, the more Josh gets to know Sophie, the more he’s attracted to her.
Sophie’s time in Windmill is nothing as she imagined. Her aunt is very ill, she had five rambunctious kids to take care of, and she allows her head to be turned by not only Josh Harper but Wade Barnes as well. But she’s never felt better. For once, she is taking care of herself, doing her own cooking and cleaning, and finally feeling as if she’s really living. If only her heart wasn’t so fickle.
I really enjoyed CALL OF THE PRAIRIE. You could feel Sophie’s frustration and rooted for her to continue her life in Windmill. I liked her feistiness and unwillingness to give in to circumstance. And of course, Josh made for a great hero. My only complaint would be Sophie’s constant belaboring of the point regarding her circumstances. We all knew her history so to be reminded of it time and time again was a bit distracting. But, that’s not enough to deter me from looking forward to the next installment in the Pioneer Promises series.
Book provided for review purposes.
September 13, 2015
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
Sophie Davenport feels like a prisoner in her own house. All her life, her overprotective parents have taken every possible measure to keep her from anything that might exacerbate her asthma--in other words, just about everything but reading and needlework. Yet Sophie longs for adventure...and for love. She determines to prove to her parents--and herself--that she can live a normal life, but she fears she may be relegated to the lonely life of a spinster.
Josh Harper is far more bookish than his brawny brothers. He grew up helping at his family's stagecoach stop in Kansas but now works in the small town of Windmill, Kansas, where he manages the bank and tries to keep up with his young niece and nephew, who live with him so they can attend school. Though the children are a handful and keep him busy, Josh yearns for a family of his own, but eligible females are not exactly plenteous on the prairie.
When Sophie's aunt, a resident of Windmill, falls ill and requires help, Sophie volunteers. Despite her father's hesitation, he finally relents and lets her go, as there is no other option. Her new role brings her into contact with the children boarding at her aunt's home--and with the handsome uncle of two of them. Is there a larger purpose in her coming to Windmill? Or will Josh Harper reject her, if not for her asthma attacks, then for the rocky nature of their relationship?
MY REVIEW
I found this book as a slow starter but soon found myself wanting to read faster and longer. Vickie has you admiring Sophie, showing what a strong and determined person she is for being treated almost like an invalid all of her life. Oh, and she's so happy to feel free! All in all this was a good book and one that I can recommend to others. Now that I read the second book in the series, I have to get the first one to read it too. Darn, another reason to buy a book, lol!
Sophie Davenport feels like a prisoner in her own house. All her life, her overprotective parents have taken every possible measure to keep her from anything that might exacerbate her asthma--in other words, just about everything but reading and needlework. Yet Sophie longs for adventure...and for love. She determines to prove to her parents--and herself--that she can live a normal life, but she fears she may be relegated to the lonely life of a spinster.
Josh Harper is far more bookish than his brawny brothers. He grew up helping at his family's stagecoach stop in Kansas but now works in the small town of Windmill, Kansas, where he manages the bank and tries to keep up with his young niece and nephew, who live with him so they can attend school. Though the children are a handful and keep him busy, Josh yearns for a family of his own, but eligible females are not exactly plenteous on the prairie.
When Sophie's aunt, a resident of Windmill, falls ill and requires help, Sophie volunteers. Despite her father's hesitation, he finally relents and lets her go, as there is no other option. Her new role brings her into contact with the children boarding at her aunt's home--and with the handsome uncle of two of them. Is there a larger purpose in her coming to Windmill? Or will Josh Harper reject her, if not for her asthma attacks, then for the rocky nature of their relationship?
MY REVIEW
I found this book as a slow starter but soon found myself wanting to read faster and longer. Vickie has you admiring Sophie, showing what a strong and determined person she is for being treated almost like an invalid all of her life. Oh, and she's so happy to feel free! All in all this was a good book and one that I can recommend to others. Now that I read the second book in the series, I have to get the first one to read it too. Darn, another reason to buy a book, lol!
January 21, 2014
Vickie McDonough has the ability to paint such realistic word pictures that I was sure I felt the prairie breezes blowing and could see the majestic windmill standing front and center in the town square.
Sophia Davenport has journeyed to Windmill in order to care for her ailing aunt. Upon arrival, things are not as she thought they would be and her abilities are challenged, as well as her health. But Sophie, as her friends call her, rises to the occasion and grows as a woman on her own for the first time.
Josh Harper grew up on a ranch and loves working with wood but his book smarts has taken him to the town of Windmill, where he is now a banker. During the week he cares for his niece and nephew while they attend school in town. For the most part, he is content but thoughts of settling down and having a family of his own are never far. Now if he could just find a girl.
When I sit down to read one of Vickie’s books, I find myself completely enveloped in the story. You know that feeling you get when you come inside from the cold and the warmth surrounds you, and you take a deep breath and let it out with satisfaction? That’s how this book made me feel. The faith and humor intertwine making this a genteel and pleasing romance of how a young woman and young man face obstacles, overcome them, and feel the Call of the Prairie tugging their hearts to become one.
Many thanks to Whitaker House for providing me an ARC. No compensation has been received. I was not required to write a positive review, just my honest opinion of the book.
Sophia Davenport has journeyed to Windmill in order to care for her ailing aunt. Upon arrival, things are not as she thought they would be and her abilities are challenged, as well as her health. But Sophie, as her friends call her, rises to the occasion and grows as a woman on her own for the first time.
Josh Harper grew up on a ranch and loves working with wood but his book smarts has taken him to the town of Windmill, where he is now a banker. During the week he cares for his niece and nephew while they attend school in town. For the most part, he is content but thoughts of settling down and having a family of his own are never far. Now if he could just find a girl.
When I sit down to read one of Vickie’s books, I find myself completely enveloped in the story. You know that feeling you get when you come inside from the cold and the warmth surrounds you, and you take a deep breath and let it out with satisfaction? That’s how this book made me feel. The faith and humor intertwine making this a genteel and pleasing romance of how a young woman and young man face obstacles, overcome them, and feel the Call of the Prairie tugging their hearts to become one.
Many thanks to Whitaker House for providing me an ARC. No compensation has been received. I was not required to write a positive review, just my honest opinion of the book.
January 28, 2014
Vickie McDonough has done it again. Call of the Prairie is the 2nd book in the Pioneer Promises series and a terrific read. This book can be read as a stand-alone story, but it's about Josh Harper, the second of the three Harper boys.
Follow Josh and Sophie Davenport's story as they get to know and love each other in Windmill, Kansas, in 1873. Josh is the bank manager, taking care of his niece and nephew so they can go to school in town. Sophie has been overprotected her entire life because of suffering from asthma. All she has wanted for years is some freedom to be herself and do what she wants. She finally gets her chance when her Aunt Maude needs help and Sophie is the only one available to go. Things aren't quite what Sophie expected, though. Her aunt is much sicker than anyone thought and she finds out she also has to take care of 5 children and the house, as well as her aunt. On top of all that, she battles a few asthma attacks and some mysterious things happening in the house. Josh and Sophie are both wonderful characters--both of them strong, kind, loving and caring people. It's a joy to watch their love for each bloom and grow. It's fun to see the different children and how Sophie interacts with each one. It's great to see how Mikey (one of the children and a trouble-maker) changes.
I was given a free copy of this book by the author to read and review it. I enjoyed this story from beginning to end and would recommend it to everyone, especially those who enjoy stories of the West.
Follow Josh and Sophie Davenport's story as they get to know and love each other in Windmill, Kansas, in 1873. Josh is the bank manager, taking care of his niece and nephew so they can go to school in town. Sophie has been overprotected her entire life because of suffering from asthma. All she has wanted for years is some freedom to be herself and do what she wants. She finally gets her chance when her Aunt Maude needs help and Sophie is the only one available to go. Things aren't quite what Sophie expected, though. Her aunt is much sicker than anyone thought and she finds out she also has to take care of 5 children and the house, as well as her aunt. On top of all that, she battles a few asthma attacks and some mysterious things happening in the house. Josh and Sophie are both wonderful characters--both of them strong, kind, loving and caring people. It's a joy to watch their love for each bloom and grow. It's fun to see the different children and how Sophie interacts with each one. It's great to see how Mikey (one of the children and a trouble-maker) changes.
I was given a free copy of this book by the author to read and review it. I enjoyed this story from beginning to end and would recommend it to everyone, especially those who enjoy stories of the West.
January 10, 2014
I'm a Kansas girl to the core and I absolutely love reading books set in home state, especially when rich historical details are revealed in such a way that doesn't suffocate the story with information dump.
In Call of the Prairie, Vickie McDonough does just that.
What I like about the Heroine:
Sarah Marshall knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go for it.
What I like about the Hero:
A beta hero with strong alpha tendencies, I like that Josh Harper doesn't pretend he has it all figured out.
What historical aspect I liked:
There are several in this story, but the one I like the most is the boardinghouse for the children so they could attend school. It is something I have never thought about, and I research Kansas history all time for fun!
My favorite supporting characters:
Mikey & Toby, they're both young boys. They're both on the wild side. One is Josh's nephew with a family who loves him, the other has no stability.
The one thing I thought was missing:
I kept waiting for a certain character to appear. I'd tell you but since I'm all about not spoiling the story, you're just going to have to read it to find out. Sorry
Overall Call of the Prairie is a really good book. And I know I say this about every series I read, but I seriously can't wait to read the third brother's story.
In Call of the Prairie, Vickie McDonough does just that.
What I like about the Heroine:
Sarah Marshall knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go for it.
What I like about the Hero:
A beta hero with strong alpha tendencies, I like that Josh Harper doesn't pretend he has it all figured out.
What historical aspect I liked:
There are several in this story, but the one I like the most is the boardinghouse for the children so they could attend school. It is something I have never thought about, and I research Kansas history all time for fun!
My favorite supporting characters:
Mikey & Toby, they're both young boys. They're both on the wild side. One is Josh's nephew with a family who loves him, the other has no stability.
The one thing I thought was missing:
I kept waiting for a certain character to appear. I'd tell you but since I'm all about not spoiling the story, you're just going to have to read it to find out. Sorry
Overall Call of the Prairie is a really good book. And I know I say this about every series I read, but I seriously can't wait to read the third brother's story.
January 17, 2014
Can you imagine having asthma in 1873? When the cure was coffee or whiskey? Add to that you're a woman and want to live a normal life but your parents are so protective they don't think you can ever get married.
When an unbelievable chance to go to Kansas arrives Sophie Davenport sees it as her only chance to live a full life.
It was nice to fall back into this series. You can feel the heat and humidity when this book starts and by the time you get to Kansas you're gasping for air along with the main character. The little town of Windmill and it's occupants will live in your mind, causing you to wonder just how the rest of their lives turned out.
What I like about this book is it doesn't follow the normal hero/heroine beautiful only thing wrong with them is a personality failure. It make the book come alive for me. I've read a lot of historicals and am seldom surprised by the plot anymore. This one surprised me several times.
There isn't a cardboard character in the entire book. It's not easy for a writer to impress me. Ms. McDonough has me anxiously awaiting the next book.
When an unbelievable chance to go to Kansas arrives Sophie Davenport sees it as her only chance to live a full life.
It was nice to fall back into this series. You can feel the heat and humidity when this book starts and by the time you get to Kansas you're gasping for air along with the main character. The little town of Windmill and it's occupants will live in your mind, causing you to wonder just how the rest of their lives turned out.
What I like about this book is it doesn't follow the normal hero/heroine beautiful only thing wrong with them is a personality failure. It make the book come alive for me. I've read a lot of historicals and am seldom surprised by the plot anymore. This one surprised me several times.
There isn't a cardboard character in the entire book. It's not easy for a writer to impress me. Ms. McDonough has me anxiously awaiting the next book.
January 17, 2014
Sophie Davenport longs for a life of independence instead of being smothered by her parents' constant concern for her delicate health. After years of dealing with asthma, they aren't exactly willing to let her out of their domain. When extenuating circumstances allow her a brief respite to travel to Kansas and care of her ill aunt, Sophie jumps at the opportunity for a change in her situation.
Josh Harper isn't impressed when he meets the young woman who came to assist her aunt and also watch his niece and nephew after school each day. He doubts her privileged background prepared her to deal with the three additional youngsters that live with her aunt and also maintain a home too. In fact, he isn't sure he should entrust his loved ones into her care at all. Sparks fly when the two battle wits over her abilities.
Vickie McDonough has another potential award-winning book on her hands with Call of the Prairie. She weaves a delightful tale of life on the Kansas prairie. With her lively dialogue and gift for description, the reader is easily drawn into the story of young Sophie and Josh. It won't disappoint.
This book was provided free for review by Whitaker House.
Josh Harper isn't impressed when he meets the young woman who came to assist her aunt and also watch his niece and nephew after school each day. He doubts her privileged background prepared her to deal with the three additional youngsters that live with her aunt and also maintain a home too. In fact, he isn't sure he should entrust his loved ones into her care at all. Sparks fly when the two battle wits over her abilities.
Vickie McDonough has another potential award-winning book on her hands with Call of the Prairie. She weaves a delightful tale of life on the Kansas prairie. With her lively dialogue and gift for description, the reader is easily drawn into the story of young Sophie and Josh. It won't disappoint.
This book was provided free for review by Whitaker House.
December 15, 2013
I always enjoy Vickie McDonough books. This one was no exception. This was the second book in the series; although not as good, in my option, as book one,it was still a good book.
Book two focused on Josh, the middle Harper son. The setting was in town, rather than on the Harpers ranch, which was a little disappointing in that we did not get to visit with the rest of the Harper family, with a few brief exceptions. I was also disappointed that we did not get to spend time with Ethan and Sara from book one. They were mentioned along with their two sons, but no interaction.
The heroine of book two, Sophie, was a fascinating character. It was enjoyable watching her grow into an independent woman, rather than the child her family thought she was. Sophie and Josh made a sweet couple, but they lacked chemistry. Their love and concern for Mikey, a boy left in Sophie's care, was heartwarming.
I'm hopeful that book three will pull ALL the Harpers back together - that they will all take a secondary role in the book.
Book two focused on Josh, the middle Harper son. The setting was in town, rather than on the Harpers ranch, which was a little disappointing in that we did not get to visit with the rest of the Harper family, with a few brief exceptions. I was also disappointed that we did not get to spend time with Ethan and Sara from book one. They were mentioned along with their two sons, but no interaction.
The heroine of book two, Sophie, was a fascinating character. It was enjoyable watching her grow into an independent woman, rather than the child her family thought she was. Sophie and Josh made a sweet couple, but they lacked chemistry. Their love and concern for Mikey, a boy left in Sophie's care, was heartwarming.
I'm hopeful that book three will pull ALL the Harpers back together - that they will all take a secondary role in the book.
April 25, 2014
Sophie has asthma and is often affected by attacks when under stress. Because if unavoidable circumstances, she finds herself sent away from home to take care of her ailing aunt. Upon arrival she finds not only her sickly aunt but 5 children that her aunt cares for, 3 of whom live with her most of the time.
Josh is leary of Sophie at first. She cares for his niece and nephew after school until he gets home from work at the bank. She seems a little too fancy to know how to care for the children and when her aunt suddenly dies, he's tempted to make other arrangement for the kids. But he keeps finding himself drawn back to this amazing woman whom has worked her way into his heart.
Sophie keeps things from her family in the hopes if being able to stay and take care of the kids but she's always worried that at any moment her mother or father may appear to drag her home. She's tired of them treating her as if she is not normal and wants an independent life if her own.
Josh is leary of Sophie at first. She cares for his niece and nephew after school until he gets home from work at the bank. She seems a little too fancy to know how to care for the children and when her aunt suddenly dies, he's tempted to make other arrangement for the kids. But he keeps finding himself drawn back to this amazing woman whom has worked her way into his heart.
Sophie keeps things from her family in the hopes if being able to stay and take care of the kids but she's always worried that at any moment her mother or father may appear to drag her home. She's tired of them treating her as if she is not normal and wants an independent life if her own.
February 24, 2014
Such a sweet story. I enjoyed Call of the Prairie, especially getting to know some of the secondary characters from her first book in the series, Whispers on the Prairie. (This story is a stand alone though.) I did like the heroine's determination to learn a new way of living and to be independent. I also appreciated her love for the children placed in her care.
April 25, 2016
Sophie has been coddled her whole life, due to the fact that she has asthma. She's not allowed to do much in her home and is treated like an invalid. Out of desperation her father sends her to tend to her aunt in Kansas. In Kansas she discovers who she is and what she can do. Really enjoyed this fun story. The characters were entertaining and well developed.
October 18, 2014
This really wasn't a bad book it just wasn't what I enjoy reading. This book was mostly Romance. I was hoping for a lite love interest and 90% historical read.
September 9, 2015
Ehh. About the same as the first.
December 31, 2019
This was a quick and easy read. A good book for a vacation or weekend read. The ending was very predictable. I haven't read the others in the series but this book was easy to read as a stand-alone.
August 17, 2014
Book 2 of 3
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