Scorched Earth: An American Western Redemption Story

by Donna E. Lane

1883 meets the story of Job in this Western historical epic where the fires of adversity forge the steel of the human spirit.

In the second installment of the gripping This Hallowed Ground series, Mac's journey takes an unexpected and perilous turn. Settled on their Georgia land, Mac and Ester eagerly await the arrival of their first child, blissfully unaware that shadows from Mac's past are closing in.

The tranquility shatters when a sinister revelation rocks their idyllic life—a townsperson correctly identifies Mac as a wanted Civil War criminal and Union army deserter. With danger at their doorstep, the couple is forced to flee, embarking on a treacherous odyssey that will test their love and resilience to the utmost.

Determined to escape the relentless pursuit of authorities, Mac makes a fateful decision to return to the vast and savage West, hoping to reunite with what remains of his Lakota tribe. Little do they know that their journey will become a harrowing saga of survival.

In Scorched Earth, readers will be swept away by the unforgiving landscapes of the American West and the resilience of a love tested by the fires of adversity. Will Mac and Ester find sanctuary, or will the echoes of their past forever shape their destiny?

Genres: Historical Fiction

474 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 23, 2024

About the author

Donna E. Lane is an award-winning, multi-genre author with a passion for exploring all aspects of the human experience. As a Christian counselor and spiritual director, Dr. Lane has dedicated herself to guiding individuals on their spiritual journeys, offering solace and wisdom through her integrated approach. Her 46 years of experience in this field have provided her with insights which she seamlessly weaves into her writing, delving into the complexities of relationships and the depths of the human heart.

With a boundless imagination, a fervent devotion to Jesus, a love for history, and a fascination with time, she crafts stories that resonate deeply with readers, offering the opportunity to embark on unforgettable journeys to other worlds, across time, and into space.

A devoted wife of 44 years and mother of three, she now cherishes her role as a grandmother and mom to her new puppy, a little white furball named Rosie Cotton.

Reviews

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this sequel to This Hallowed Ground! You HAVE to read the books in order, or you'll be a little lost! We continue to follow Ester and Mac, and their growing family. The story picks up with them at their home in GA, and all of the difficulties they endure, until finally, at the end, they're back at their land in GA. I love how Mac continues to grow in his faith in God, which shows we're never done learning and growing until we go to our heavenly home. Though we don't share the same struggles, we do still struggle in our daily lives, and we'll learn the same lessons that Mac and Ester do, that trouble comes to good people, and God is there to go through them with us, and will help us through, as long as we call on Him and follow Him. He will work everything out for our good.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was no required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Naomi Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mac and Ester's story continues!
The life Mac was forced into still haunts him and Mac and Ester are on the run. This journey is filled with highs and lows as they seek to live their life--like Mac has always done.

They are one step ahead of the army hunting Mac like a deserter and war criminal but with Mac's knowledge of the land and the Lord's hand, they are able to escape detection.

Mac's lows become less and less devastating as his heart testifies to Ester's faithfulness. Her steadfast belief in Mac help him to rise above his old man and step into who God is calling him to be.

This book is emotionally charged and you will be swept into the saga, weeping with Mac, cheering his wins, hoping things will be different for his Lakota brothers--even while knowing the outcome.

This book CAN be read as a stand alone, though I'd highly recommend that you read This Hallowed Ground first. You will get a much deeper understanding of Mac and Ester's story.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. This in no way affects my thoughts. This five star review is my own

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The names of Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull--icons in American history. Through the imagination of Dr. Lane, they and their tribes come alive as they struggle with the westward expansion of the United States. Caught up in the whirlwind of the Civil War and beyond, Mac and Ester, the main characters, find themselves on both sides of the struggles of this tumultuous time in history.
In a realistic and encouraging way, Mac and Ester's faith plays a role in the choices they make, not causing circumstances to be easier, but teaching them about persistence and character and the ultimate care of God. A real page-turner!

Note: I received an advance copy of "Scorched Earth"

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book!

This is one of the best books I have ever read! The author brilliantly relates the truth about the Lakota battles to save their way of life. Other tribes are mingled into the story as well. Faith is a constant throughout the book. The story one man is both interesting and heart breaking. How he mingled with the Lakota after the Civil war and yet lived as a white man begs to be read and remembered. I cannot urge others too strongly to bless themselves by reading this amazing book.

[Robert Reese · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to read the sequel after enjoying the first book “This Hallowed Ground”. I knew this book was going to be amazing because of how great the first one was, but I didn’t expect it to be better. This story literally has everything the soul needs. I found myself fully immersed in the story and feeling every part. So, If you’re hungry for something unique and well written, a story full of action, drama, and a hint of romance, then I highly suggest this book!

[Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in the This Hallowed Ground series is every bit as well written as the first. Mac and Ester go through many trials where they will have to choose to lean on their faith or let their doubt take over. You'll be on the edge of your seat, turning pages as fast as you can to find out what happens next. I'm looking forward to the third book because it is certain to be just as good as the first two.
I received an advanced copy from the author and this is my own opinion.

[Lana Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a moving and exciting second book in this series! Mac and Esther have to flee their home (that had been in the family for a few generations) immediately, when it is found out that Mac was a deserter of the war! Esther is very pregnant when they leave and it is a dangerous time of the year to travel, to boot! They have to travel on old worn back roads that haven’t been used for a while, it’s rainy, then cold, and Mac worries that Esther may lose their baby as the riding in the wagon is so terribly rough and bumpy. If she doesn’t DIE before she has their baby as they rush back to the West to the Indian tribe who helped raise him. They have to travel through land that is full of other tribes of Indians, who would think nothing of scalping them! Their faith keeps them going, every mile of the way. I can’t keep telling you things that happen in this book, or it will ruin it for you, dear reader friend. This book really shows how much leaning on the Lord for all of your needs is definitely necessary and gives you hope when all seems lost. It has many scary moments, a lot of drama, a lot of goodness, too. And, it ends on such a happy, fulfilling note. You will love this second installment of This Hallowed Ground. I was provided a copy of this book to read so that I could write my own, personal opinion. Get it-you’ll be glad you did!!🙏♥️

[Tracy Sylvester · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the continued story about the life and times of Aidan MacAlister and his wife Ester. This book really showcases the true hardships of the past from the Civil war, Indian raids, and the travel in the early trails. Life wasn’t easy for Aidan, Ester and their family. I found this book just as intriguing as the first, it made me really feel like I was witnessing/watching it in vivid detail in a movie. I look forward to seeing what comes in the next book in this series.

[Deanna Mosier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Old West, Lakota and Faith

I enjoyed this book. The author did much research and shares details of the battles between Lakota, Sioux, Cheyenne and the Calvary where Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse fought. Our hero plays a big part due to his prior life (in book 1) with the Lakota. He and his wife Ester suffer through so much in life; but their faith in Jesus carries them through and it does have a good ending.

[Kathy Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to read this book after reading This Hallowed Ground. This book is so engrossing. It has realistic characters, perilous journeys, suspense and adventures. Lane weaves a gospel message throughout the book.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author/publisher. This did not affect my review as the opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Hyacinth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought I wouldn't like these types of books because of the true history of what has happened. I found myself liking this book. To see in my mind's eye the struggles and harsh weather conditions that were endured to launch out of your own through uncivilized lands was thought provoking. I look forward to reading more.

[Sherry Menager · Rating 5 out of 5]

full circle

This fantastic story will keep you glued to the book page after page.the storyline of a life well lived that comes full circle is engaging with interesting characters and oh so many adventures. I recommend this book for all ages. I loved it a very gifted author.

[Donna Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

a tough life

Wow! What a life Mac and Ester lived. The
story told of their many hardships, trials, emotional upheavals and their lives together. A sweet story about how the Lord got them through all of the many difficult situations. It was a pleasure to read.

[Rendalynn S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Loved This Book

1. They had tons of children, but you didn't have to know how they arrived.
2. The love of God and Jesus Christ was shone on just about every page.
3. Painful events, yet a happy ending.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful Story

I enjoyed every word. Loved the way the characters followed Jesus, the way scripture was included. This was such an entertaining story.