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Oregon Promise #1
Through Dust and Ashes
Fleeing the cruelty of her abusive husband, Mercy embarks on a perilous journey with her four-year-old son, seeking refuge in the company of a grieving family. Grief that is only compounded when Mercy’s husband catches up to them. In the span of one moment, tranquility is crushed beneath the boot of brutality.
Now, Mercy must navigate the treacherous terrain of her heart, torn between two men she’s bound to by debt and duty.
Micah, haunted by a love extinguished too soon and shackled by a sorrow that makes God seem distant, is gruff but protective and ignites a flame of yearning in the ash heap of her soul.
Gideon, though he finds solace in his faith, bears scars of his own. His gentle friendship awakens desires she thought long buried.
Join Mercy, Micah, and Gideon as they discover that amidst the dust and ashes of their pasts, the promise of a new beginning awaits those who dare to choose faith.
Now, Mercy must navigate the treacherous terrain of her heart, torn between two men she’s bound to by debt and duty.
Micah, haunted by a love extinguished too soon and shackled by a sorrow that makes God seem distant, is gruff but protective and ignites a flame of yearning in the ash heap of her soul.
Gideon, though he finds solace in his faith, bears scars of his own. His gentle friendship awakens desires she thought long buried.
Join Mercy, Micah, and Gideon as they discover that amidst the dust and ashes of their pasts, the promise of a new beginning awaits those who dare to choose faith.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2024
157 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
About the author
Lynnette Bonner
65 books390 followersLYNNETTE BONNER, the daughter of missionaries, was born and raised in Malawi, Africa, graduated high school from Rift Valley Academy, a boarding school in Kenya, and attended Northwest University in Washington, where she met her husband, Marty. A few years after their marriage, they moved to Pierce, Idaho. While studying the history of their little town, Lynnette was inspired to begin The Shepherd’s Heart Series with Rocky Mountain Oasis.
Marty and Lynnette have four children and currently live in Washington, where Marty pastors a church.
Marty and Lynnette have four children and currently live in Washington, where Marty pastors a church.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 30, 2025
3.5/5
This was a cute western! A ton of drama at the beginning, but it makes the story what it is. It felt like an episode of Wagon Train.
This was a cute western! A ton of drama at the beginning, but it makes the story what it is. It felt like an episode of Wagon Train.
April 4, 2024
I enjoyed this book and looking forward to next one. Mercy and son, Avram, running from abusive husband, beg Gideon and Micah to help her. Good story includes faith thread as they work through various life issues and look forward to meet wagon train headed to Oregon. It kept my interest with all the happenings.
May 27, 2025
I loved the characters and was drawn in by the storyline to the point that I stayed up half the night to finish, only did not have closure and that satisfied feeling at the end. I don’t like having to buy another book to feel a sense of completion.
July 12, 2025
Beautifully written!
Such a moving story of loss, pain and finding one’s faith. Wonderfully written character who you just want to learn all about and how they survive.
Such a moving story of loss, pain and finding one’s faith. Wonderfully written character who you just want to learn all about and how they survive.
September 13, 2024
God works all things for good.
A story with much heartache, tears, fear, and danger, but also filled with compassion, kindness, friendship, and God’s love and redemption. Micah’s life is filled with troubles and he thinks God doesn’t care and is punishing him. Mercy’s life if filled with pain and fear. They both learn of God’s love and redemption.
This was the first book by this author for me. I enjoyed it, although there are places in it that will break your heart. She weaves Biblical truths throughout and the story of redemption and salvation is clearly given. I would definitely revisit this novel.
A story with much heartache, tears, fear, and danger, but also filled with compassion, kindness, friendship, and God’s love and redemption. Micah’s life is filled with troubles and he thinks God doesn’t care and is punishing him. Mercy’s life if filled with pain and fear. They both learn of God’s love and redemption.
This was the first book by this author for me. I enjoyed it, although there are places in it that will break your heart. She weaves Biblical truths throughout and the story of redemption and salvation is clearly given. I would definitely revisit this novel.
January 24, 2025
Such an inspiring,well-written story
This reader's interest was captured at the very beginning. What happened at the beginning was difficult to read. It was a joy to listen to the young boys throughout the book. They had been traumatized by what happened along with the adults. So much happiness took place in the rest of the book. The scriptures throughout the book were a welcome addition. The underlined passages are so worthy of keeping. I love the mention of God in this book as well. I plan to start the second book in this series next. This is a very talented author I just discovered. I will be on a mission to read all of her books. I was drawn to her because I share the same first name with her. It is rare to see the name Lynnette with double n's.
This reader's interest was captured at the very beginning. What happened at the beginning was difficult to read. It was a joy to listen to the young boys throughout the book. They had been traumatized by what happened along with the adults. So much happiness took place in the rest of the book. The scriptures throughout the book were a welcome addition. The underlined passages are so worthy of keeping. I love the mention of God in this book as well. I plan to start the second book in this series next. This is a very talented author I just discovered. I will be on a mission to read all of her books. I was drawn to her because I share the same first name with her. It is rare to see the name Lynnette with double n's.
September 25, 2024
This book had such a sad beginning you wondered where it would end. I liked all the good characters. The bad were just terrible! It is hard to believe how things were one the 1800s. It seems like men could do anything they wanted. I like the look into what it was like at that time in history. Micah and Mercy make a good couple even with all they have been through. I like Gideon and look forward to seeing how he finds his wife. This is the first book I have read by Lynnette Bonner and look forward to Beneath Brazen Skies. I will recommend this book the all the readers that come into our library that like historial fiction.
June 25, 2025
I was engaged in this book from the first page. I love the pioneer spirit and details of what it took to just stay fed and clothed. This is a Christian based novel and I love the love story that often took my breath away.
Scripture is easily weaved throughout without being preachy. There is hope for Mercy and her little Avram and Micah and Gideon who have suffered abuse and loss. Even when it seemed hopeless. As they prepare their prairie schooners in Independence Missouri to hit the Oregon Trail I am anxiously waiting for the next two books to arrive so I can get back into their story.
Scripture is easily weaved throughout without being preachy. There is hope for Mercy and her little Avram and Micah and Gideon who have suffered abuse and loss. Even when it seemed hopeless. As they prepare their prairie schooners in Independence Missouri to hit the Oregon Trail I am anxiously waiting for the next two books to arrive so I can get back into their story.
May 5, 2024
I love this author
I love her characters, they are so real. I actually experienced a lot of what Mercy did, so I identified with her so much. God lead me through complete forgiveness against my ex. I also love the scriptures she uses which speaks to my heart and resonates which me for days. I really appreciate that. This is a family oriented book of reconciliation. I love all of this authors book. Keep them coming
I love her characters, they are so real. I actually experienced a lot of what Mercy did, so I identified with her so much. God lead me through complete forgiveness against my ex. I also love the scriptures she uses which speaks to my heart and resonates which me for days. I really appreciate that. This is a family oriented book of reconciliation. I love all of this authors book. Keep them coming
May 7, 2024
Gideon, Micah, Joel, Mercy and Avram
This is the tale of three families, Gideon, his brother-in-law, Micah and his son Joel, and abused runaway woman and her son, Avram. There is plenty of excitement and adventure, intrigue and challenges that lead to killing. They discover much sorrow and the discover of new love. You will enjoy reading this tale. Now to the second book to discover the ending.
This is the tale of three families, Gideon, his brother-in-law, Micah and his son Joel, and abused runaway woman and her son, Avram. There is plenty of excitement and adventure, intrigue and challenges that lead to killing. They discover much sorrow and the discover of new love. You will enjoy reading this tale. Now to the second book to discover the ending.
August 1, 2024
Loved it
O my goodness, what an awesome story . I found this book & author by accident & boy I'm glad I did. This storyline is so realistic to today's world. As I read this story I felt like I was there. I am so happy that they had God in their lives. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy a great love story with our Father in the center of it. Can't wait to read the next one. Happy reading & God Bless.
O my goodness, what an awesome story . I found this book & author by accident & boy I'm glad I did. This storyline is so realistic to today's world. As I read this story I felt like I was there. I am so happy that they had God in their lives. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy a great love story with our Father in the center of it. Can't wait to read the next one. Happy reading & God Bless.
September 22, 2024
Through Dust and Ashes
This is a very moving and emotional book that covers a truly horrible subject. Mercy had endured an abusive husband and an unloving father. When the abusive started with her young son, she is determined to leave for the Oregon coast. She is taken in by a sympathetic family who had also endured numerous hardships. The need for all to find forgiveness and grace in order to survive was paramount. The book is well worth reading.
This is a very moving and emotional book that covers a truly horrible subject. Mercy had endured an abusive husband and an unloving father. When the abusive started with her young son, she is determined to leave for the Oregon coast. She is taken in by a sympathetic family who had also endured numerous hardships. The need for all to find forgiveness and grace in order to survive was paramount. The book is well worth reading.
September 23, 2024
good story but….
Just because you use German to write your curse words doesn’t make this a clean read. I was disappointed at that. There was a couple of words/phrases I wasn’t familiar with so I tried to search for information like for the speed walker but I found nothing on it and drinking from the bota. Not saying there’s nothing out there but I couldn’t find anything. But the story was good and I’d be interested in reading what happens in Oregon.
Just because you use German to write your curse words doesn’t make this a clean read. I was disappointed at that. There was a couple of words/phrases I wasn’t familiar with so I tried to search for information like for the speed walker but I found nothing on it and drinking from the bota. Not saying there’s nothing out there but I couldn’t find anything. But the story was good and I’d be interested in reading what happens in Oregon.
October 5, 2024
A Fabulos read.....
This story was phenomenal from beginning to ending and I loved the slow progression of the feelings. I love Micahs character development I read this on kindle unlimited bit I will be purchasing the hard copy. Now on to book too. I also loved how the author stated her inspiration for the story and how the love of Christ was woven through from beginning to end.
This story was phenomenal from beginning to ending and I loved the slow progression of the feelings. I love Micahs character development I read this on kindle unlimited bit I will be purchasing the hard copy. Now on to book too. I also loved how the author stated her inspiration for the story and how the love of Christ was woven through from beginning to end.
January 20, 2025
Powerful portrayal of emotions surrounding abuse
This is a realistic story about how bad things can happen to good people and the struggles they face with their emotions and actions. Faith and time followed by love can make life and love happen again. A must read for anyone who has suffered from domestic abuse. Bonner's writing is inspiring and brings hope to those who have lost it.
This is a realistic story about how bad things can happen to good people and the struggles they face with their emotions and actions. Faith and time followed by love can make life and love happen again. A must read for anyone who has suffered from domestic abuse. Bonner's writing is inspiring and brings hope to those who have lost it.
May 31, 2025
Beauty for Ashes
Men dragged Mercy through a valley of betrayal, pain, and despair. Yet in her darkest moment came rescue and safety. Mercy is broken and scarred, a mother desperate to save her son and herself. God assures us that His promises are sure. Could He have a plan of hope, healing, and love for Mercy?
This is a tender story of service, faith, and forgiveness.
*Trigger warning-domestic abuse.
Men dragged Mercy through a valley of betrayal, pain, and despair. Yet in her darkest moment came rescue and safety. Mercy is broken and scarred, a mother desperate to save her son and herself. God assures us that His promises are sure. Could He have a plan of hope, healing, and love for Mercy?
This is a tender story of service, faith, and forgiveness.
*Trigger warning-domestic abuse.
August 10, 2024
wow
I have but one word WOW. I loved reading this book Lynnette Bonner Through Dust and Ashes book 1. This book has such strong characters in it. From the abused woman the the two men who have wives and children. A woman asks for help to escape her abusive husband. Only to have her husband murder the wife of one of the men who help to save her. This all happens before they reach Independence to start on the Oregon Trail. This is a very enjoyable read.
I have but one word WOW. I loved reading this book Lynnette Bonner Through Dust and Ashes book 1. This book has such strong characters in it. From the abused woman the the two men who have wives and children. A woman asks for help to escape her abusive husband. Only to have her husband murder the wife of one of the men who help to save her. This all happens before they reach Independence to start on the Oregon Trail. This is a very enjoyable read.
September 13, 2024
Awesome!
Lynette Bonner is an awesome writer and this book was so, so good. It’s not often that I read a book so good that I am savoring it, but this one I did. The writing was incredible, her characters so flawed and yet so real, the story line was great, although surprising in many ways. This is definitely going to be one that
I will want to read again.
Lynette Bonner is an awesome writer and this book was so, so good. It’s not often that I read a book so good that I am savoring it, but this one I did. The writing was incredible, her characters so flawed and yet so real, the story line was great, although surprising in many ways. This is definitely going to be one that
I will want to read again.
January 9, 2025
The gift of Micha
Good story, good characters, wagon train stories is not my best reads, I did try getting into the story , I, m not really sure what was missing. I did read this story at the recommendation of someone else. But unfortunately it just wasn't my type of story.
Sorry! Thank you!
Good story, good characters, wagon train stories is not my best reads, I did try getting into the story , I, m not really sure what was missing. I did read this story at the recommendation of someone else. But unfortunately it just wasn't my type of story.
Sorry! Thank you!
March 7, 2025
Through Dust and Ashes
This story about an abused woman and her son captured my heart. Lynnette Bonner is an incredible author. Her characters come to life on the pages and kept me reading practically nonstop. Her scripture references remind me of the love our Heavenly Father has for us.
This story about an abused woman and her son captured my heart. Lynnette Bonner is an incredible author. Her characters come to life on the pages and kept me reading practically nonstop. Her scripture references remind me of the love our Heavenly Father has for us.
March 24, 2025
Through Dust and Ashes
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I
Each development of the characters was exciting and scary. So good men and some not so much. I want to let others know that I can't wait to read book two of this series. Historical fiction is my favourite and this book was a wonderful read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I
Each development of the characters was exciting and scary. So good men and some not so much. I want to let others know that I can't wait to read book two of this series. Historical fiction is my favourite and this book was a wonderful read.
July 14, 2025
Stay with the story..You won't regret it!
When I started reading it was focused on the abuse that Mercy endured. It was hard to read as it continued. I want say now after finishing that I understand the author's purpose and after finishing I want to order the next book! Love the story line and can't wait to go on...
When I started reading it was focused on the abuse that Mercy endured. It was hard to read as it continued. I want say now after finishing that I understand the author's purpose and after finishing I want to order the next book! Love the story line and can't wait to go on...
July 28, 2025
Not a typical choice for me... recommended by a friend. This was a pretty solid story but there were a few aspects that irritated me about the writing - like use of nicknames and a 5 year old who barely spoke complete sentences. I did like the believable characters and little (though sparse) historical details.
March 30, 2024
Sad story, happy ending
No woman should have to suffer the trials Mercy went through. What a blessing, for her and her son, when she meets two heroes passing through. She didn't mean to bring more trouble on them ... A moving story that will touch your heart.
No woman should have to suffer the trials Mercy went through. What a blessing, for her and her son, when she meets two heroes passing through. She didn't mean to bring more trouble on them ... A moving story that will touch your heart.
April 15, 2024
One of the best books I’ve read in quite a while. The story is full of tragedy and heartache, but the gentleness and goodness of the main characters shine through brightly. I can’t wait to read the next one.
May 7, 2024
So good!
This was a heartbreaking story in so many ways, but still the promises of God come through, even in the hardest of times. Keep your hankie close! You will need it! Loved it!
This was a heartbreaking story in so many ways, but still the promises of God come through, even in the hardest of times. Keep your hankie close! You will need it! Loved it!
July 22, 2024
Through Dust and Ashes
Oh my goodness what a great story! Lynette Bonner has outdone herself with this exciting book full of romance, angst, and spiritual insight. I recommend this book.
Oh my goodness what a great story! Lynette Bonner has outdone herself with this exciting book full of romance, angst, and spiritual insight. I recommend this book.
August 3, 2024
What A Gifted Author
Worth my time. Loved, truly loved the spiritual references. Love the twists and turns in the plot. The characters were so real it was like I was there too.
Excellent ending. Difficult tackling such a topic. Handled well. Going for book 2...I am sold!❤❤❤
Worth my time. Loved, truly loved the spiritual references. Love the twists and turns in the plot. The characters were so real it was like I was there too.
Excellent ending. Difficult tackling such a topic. Handled well. Going for book 2...I am sold!❤❤❤
August 19, 2024
Dust and ashes
Wonderful story of real heart issues. Addresses questions many Christians ask with thoughtfulness and truth. Sweet romance too! Ready for the next book in the series .
Wonderful story of real heart issues. Addresses questions many Christians ask with thoughtfulness and truth. Sweet romance too! Ready for the next book in the series .
September 16, 2024
so good
I got this on a flash sale and I LOVE it. I immediately bought the second and am anxiously awaiting the third! She writes such real characters. Gideon is probably my favorite.
I got this on a flash sale and I LOVE it. I immediately bought the second and am anxiously awaiting the third! She writes such real characters. Gideon is probably my favorite.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews