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Enduring Hope #5
The Girl from Tomorrow's Town
Past and Present Collide on the Railway
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.
Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.
More from the Enduring Hope
The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.
Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.
More from the Enduring Hope
The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2026
About the author
Naomi Dawn Musch
23 books499 followersNaomi loves stories rich in American history, but occasionally writes in other genres as well. She pens stories from the pristine north woods, where she and her husband live as epically as God allows near their five adult children and passel of grandchildren. She has worked as an editor for a small press, a staff writer for an EPA award-winning newspaper, a ghost writer, and has published dozens of magazine and internet articles for the encouragement of homeschooling families and young writers. Naomi is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, Lake Superior Writers, and the Wisconsin Writers' Association. She loves engaging with others and always discovering kernels of a new story. She is available for speaking and book groups. Her newest novel is Mist O'er the Voyageur, and she anticipates re-releasing several of her back-list novels in 2019.
Connect with her through her website: http://www.naomimusch.com
FB: Naomi Musch - Author
Twitter: NMusch
Connect with her through her website: http://www.naomimusch.com
FB: Naomi Musch - Author
Twitter: NMusch
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
May 19, 2026
This is the 3rd book I’ve read in the “Enduring Hope” series. They all have been great and this is no exception. This book is a standalone. This story is based off a real life tragic event with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus train crash. This story centers on characters Lily and Francis. Lily is searching for her family. Francis has an eye condition. Lily and Francis are a great couple. I really liked both of their characters. They helped each other a lot and I just loved their romantic relationship as well. I loved the circus setting and seeing all the different types of people who work there. I found it very interesting. This story is definitely tragic, with dozens of deaths. The story ends on a happier note though. There is really good Christian content throughout as well. Overall, a great book and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
March 15, 2026
A heart-tugging inspirational romance based on a real event in 1918. A well-written story with characters who faced their difficulties with courage, kindness, and hope.
Francis was so charming and kind, with a genuine care for Lily, despite his own handicap. Going out of his way to help her, extending his friendship to a perfect stranger, as he would his own sister. Lily's story was especially heart-rending and probably echoed many from orphan trains sadly. It kept me reading on faster hoping she would find answers and get a happy ending. Faith, hope and love grew as they faced many challenges.
A satisfying read that lingered long after turning the last page. Recommend for readers who enjoy historical romances with faith. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Francis was so charming and kind, with a genuine care for Lily, despite his own handicap. Going out of his way to help her, extending his friendship to a perfect stranger, as he would his own sister. Lily's story was especially heart-rending and probably echoed many from orphan trains sadly. It kept me reading on faster hoping she would find answers and get a happy ending. Faith, hope and love grew as they faced many challenges.
A satisfying read that lingered long after turning the last page. Recommend for readers who enjoy historical romances with faith. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
June 17, 2026
Very good!
June 11, 2026
The Girls from Tomorrow's Town is the fifth standalone novel in the Enduring Hope series. I have had the privilege of reading all five of the Barbour Publishing series. A well-paced, intriguing storyline along with compelling characters, amazing history, and quietly inspiring faith kept me reading intensely to see how it would unfold. Lily Mae and Francies are a precious couple, and I love how their relationship develops as they help each other face tragedy, physical challenges, and emotional scars from the past. Descriptions of circus life and the horrific Hagenbeck-Wallace circus train wreck, a real-life historical event, are realistic and immersive. I love how hope and the true meaning of family shine through all the darkness of the tragedy. I enjoyed this book and wholeheartedly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
Read
March 26, 2026This was such a great read, and the author kept me page turning from beginning to end.
Lilly has had a hard time during her young life, nineteen now, but for the last ten years she has been living with a family in Wyoming, not her own.
This is a read about the Orphan Train, WWI, a great train disaster, and a bit of sweet romance, and thrown in looking for your lost family.
We travel with a circus and meet some of the people that keep it running, and how they care for one another.
This is a story of loss and survival, and the love that comes from being part of a family, whether related by blood or circumstance.
Be sure to read the afterword, some great facts, and the authors use of them in this read.
I’ll be looking for more by this author!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 6, 2026
What a wonderful book! The characters drew me in from the beginning. This was a new author to me, but wow can she write a book that keeps a person hooked from the beginning and packs a whole story into less than 300 pages. Even though this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. Not only was the storyline great, but it was taken from actual historical events and that is the way I love to read history. Definitely will be encouraging others to read this book as well.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour publishing but was under no obligation to review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour publishing but was under no obligation to review. All opinions are strictly my own.
June 1, 2026
The Girl From Tomorrow's Town is the fifth book in the Enduring Hope series! What I love about this series is that each book is published by a different author and each book can be read as a standalone. This series takes place between the late 1800's to the early 1900's. This current novel starts off in 1918 right when the first World War is going on. I have to say that this book was filled with an exciting plotline and the characters were spot on.
We are introduced to Lily who is trying to track down her mother after she was sent on an orphan train many years ago. However, the trip is far from easy as she manages to get herself arrested. But a young man named Francis manages to help her out and she gets employment at a circus too. Will she manage to find her mother before she gets into anymore serious trouble?
We are introduced to Lily who is trying to track down her mother after she was sent on an orphan train many years ago. However, the trip is far from easy as she manages to get herself arrested. But a young man named Francis manages to help her out and she gets employment at a circus too. Will she manage to find her mother before she gets into anymore serious trouble?
June 14, 2026
•𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰•
{𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒊𝒓𝒍 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑻𝒐𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒘’𝒔 𝑻𝒐𝒘𝒏 }
🎪 Release Date: June 1, 2026 🎪
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I found this story to feel a bit juvenile. I wouldn’t say there was anything inherently wrong with it—it just felt like the writing was a bit too simplistic for my taste. Honestly, I don’t think it’ll bother most readers because not everyone is nearly as picky as I am, but because I didn’t care for the writing, I DNFed it at 30%.
There were also a few instances in the story that felt like plot holes. They didn’t feel believable and made zero logical sense to me. I could be overthinking things, but I feel like a well-written story should flow well, even if overthought by the reader.
I think there will be readers who will really enjoy this book, and that’s just fine. I find myself getting pickier with my reads by the day, and I don’t like forcing myself to read things I don’t find enjoyable. I’m going to need to start being SUPER picky with my ARCs from here on out so I don’t have to DNF so often.
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I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. All opinions listed are purely my own—I was not required to write a review.
{𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒊𝒓𝒍 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑻𝒐𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒘’𝒔 𝑻𝒐𝒘𝒏 }
🎪 Release Date: June 1, 2026 🎪
.
.
.
I found this story to feel a bit juvenile. I wouldn’t say there was anything inherently wrong with it—it just felt like the writing was a bit too simplistic for my taste. Honestly, I don’t think it’ll bother most readers because not everyone is nearly as picky as I am, but because I didn’t care for the writing, I DNFed it at 30%.
There were also a few instances in the story that felt like plot holes. They didn’t feel believable and made zero logical sense to me. I could be overthinking things, but I feel like a well-written story should flow well, even if overthought by the reader.
I think there will be readers who will really enjoy this book, and that’s just fine. I find myself getting pickier with my reads by the day, and I don’t like forcing myself to read things I don’t find enjoyable. I’m going to need to start being SUPER picky with my ARCs from here on out so I don’t have to DNF so often.
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.
.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. All opinions listed are purely my own—I was not required to write a review.
July 5, 2026
“He might not see well, but everything about Lily was perfectly clear. She was searching for home, possibly for the mother who had never returned to claim her.”
The Girl from Tomorrow’s Train by Naomi Musch is a five-star read for me! Published by Barbour as part of its loosely connected series Enduring Hope, this is book #5. Sent West on an orphan train at nine years old, Lily Mae Dodge escapes a life of enforced slavery with her adopted family. Traveling East on a train, she meets Francis Basnett, a young man whose curious eye condition prohibits him from joining the War efforts in 1918.
This novel is so many things. It is a historical romance. It is a story of an American tradition- the orphan train- that helped many, but harmed just as many, while adults turned a blind eye to children’s suffering. It is the tale of a young woman searching for the acceptance and love that she was denied as a child, her soul searching for answers.
We also see a young man whose eye disease makes him the object of unaware society’s scorn. A young man who thinks his inability to see reflects on his ability to be the man God made him to be. Musch presents the historical Hagenbeck-Wallace circus train wreck of 1918, the largest and most disastrous circus train wreck in history. More than that, we are treated to a slice of life under the Big Top, backstage with the workers who became family for each other. Faith shines through in the dark of the tragedy, and hope is born again.
Francis quickly falls for Lily, but feels himself unworthy. He realizes how much Lily is winging her every decision, and invites her to join him in working for the circus. He often encourages her in her faith, with sayings like this: “He’s a big God. There’s no telling what He’ll accomplish through your prayers. The charge to pray might seem simple yet be bigger than you know.” How I loved that reminder for my own life. And, he is so kind, so patient, and thoughtful of Lily. I was always rooting for the two of them, but Francis captured my heart when he spoke to Lily, in a voice she couldn’t hear, but in the pattern in which she often speaks aloud to herself!
Lily grabbed my heart from the get-go, in her suspenseful escape, her cautiousness, and her need for someone to love her. Yet, she opens her heart to the people around her: first, Jenny; then Alice and Leslie. She looks for ways to help in the search for survivors among the train wreck and to offer aid. And finding Suzie, Lily recognizes and fills a big need. I also loved the way Lily helps Francis as she acts as his eyes, whether alighting from the train, or reading the news to him. Then…how do you describe colors to someone who has never seen them? “Pink is the first breeze on a summer morning, tingling up your arms with the dawn.” No wonder Francis falls hard!!
One paragraph made me especially think.
“People happily came to see the shows and delight in the thrills, but many believed that the folk who lived and worked with the circus were mostly freaks and shysters. At best, they viewed them as a peculiar lot and not meant to associate in pubic life.” THIS MAKES ME SO SAD!! But it is such a true statement of how we as society pass easy judgment, often ignoring the fact we’re guilty on the other hand of promoting an activity or (particpating in one) we claim is wrong.
I received a copy of the book from CelebrateLit via NetGalley. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“It’s not ridiculous to want to go home.” A puff of air escaped her lips. “Is there such a place?” - Francis, Lily
“I can’t give up on the future. I must cling to hope if it takes my last breath.”- Lily
“God didn’t promise to remove our suffering while we’re here, but He promises to be the lap we can climb into while we go through it. He will hold us and love us through. He’ll give us peace.” - Francis
“A still, small voice whispered into her ear that this was how it should be, that something good could come of her own hard past.” -( Lily)
The Girl from Tomorrow’s Train by Naomi Musch is a five-star read for me! Published by Barbour as part of its loosely connected series Enduring Hope, this is book #5. Sent West on an orphan train at nine years old, Lily Mae Dodge escapes a life of enforced slavery with her adopted family. Traveling East on a train, she meets Francis Basnett, a young man whose curious eye condition prohibits him from joining the War efforts in 1918.
This novel is so many things. It is a historical romance. It is a story of an American tradition- the orphan train- that helped many, but harmed just as many, while adults turned a blind eye to children’s suffering. It is the tale of a young woman searching for the acceptance and love that she was denied as a child, her soul searching for answers.
We also see a young man whose eye disease makes him the object of unaware society’s scorn. A young man who thinks his inability to see reflects on his ability to be the man God made him to be. Musch presents the historical Hagenbeck-Wallace circus train wreck of 1918, the largest and most disastrous circus train wreck in history. More than that, we are treated to a slice of life under the Big Top, backstage with the workers who became family for each other. Faith shines through in the dark of the tragedy, and hope is born again.
Francis quickly falls for Lily, but feels himself unworthy. He realizes how much Lily is winging her every decision, and invites her to join him in working for the circus. He often encourages her in her faith, with sayings like this: “He’s a big God. There’s no telling what He’ll accomplish through your prayers. The charge to pray might seem simple yet be bigger than you know.” How I loved that reminder for my own life. And, he is so kind, so patient, and thoughtful of Lily. I was always rooting for the two of them, but Francis captured my heart when he spoke to Lily, in a voice she couldn’t hear, but in the pattern in which she often speaks aloud to herself!
Lily grabbed my heart from the get-go, in her suspenseful escape, her cautiousness, and her need for someone to love her. Yet, she opens her heart to the people around her: first, Jenny; then Alice and Leslie. She looks for ways to help in the search for survivors among the train wreck and to offer aid. And finding Suzie, Lily recognizes and fills a big need. I also loved the way Lily helps Francis as she acts as his eyes, whether alighting from the train, or reading the news to him. Then…how do you describe colors to someone who has never seen them? “Pink is the first breeze on a summer morning, tingling up your arms with the dawn.” No wonder Francis falls hard!!
One paragraph made me especially think.
“People happily came to see the shows and delight in the thrills, but many believed that the folk who lived and worked with the circus were mostly freaks and shysters. At best, they viewed them as a peculiar lot and not meant to associate in pubic life.” THIS MAKES ME SO SAD!! But it is such a true statement of how we as society pass easy judgment, often ignoring the fact we’re guilty on the other hand of promoting an activity or (particpating in one) we claim is wrong.
I received a copy of the book from CelebrateLit via NetGalley. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“It’s not ridiculous to want to go home.” A puff of air escaped her lips. “Is there such a place?” - Francis, Lily
“I can’t give up on the future. I must cling to hope if it takes my last breath.”- Lily
“God didn’t promise to remove our suffering while we’re here, but He promises to be the lap we can climb into while we go through it. He will hold us and love us through. He’ll give us peace.” - Francis
“A still, small voice whispered into her ear that this was how it should be, that something good could come of her own hard past.” -( Lily)
July 7, 2026
The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch is Christian Historical Fiction and the fifth book in the Enduring Hope Series.
Hope on the Rails: A Heart-Stirring Journey of Love, Loss, and Faith
What would you do if the only clue to your past was the mother who left you behind?
That question drives Lily Mae Dodge on a courageous and emotional journey that quickly swept me into her story and refused to let go. Filled with historical detail, unforgettable characters, tender romance, and heartbreaking tragedy, this novel delivers a powerful reminder that hope can survive even the darkest circumstances.
Ten years after being sent west on an orphan train, Lily Mae can no longer ignore the longing to find the mother who gave her away. Determined to uncover the truth, she escapes Wyoming and heads for Chicago, believing the answers she’s searched for all her life are finally within reach.
But life has other plans.
After finding herself in trouble shortly after arriving, Lily Mae receives help from an unexpected source—Francis Basnett, a circus roustabout whose rare vision impairment shapes how he experiences the world. Francis is one of those rare heroes who quietly steal your heart. His kindness, humility, and unwavering compassion make him a perfect counterpart to Lily Mae’s fierce determination.
Together, they find refuge in the colorful and fascinating world of the Hagenbeck-Wallace circus. The circus setting practically comes alive on the page, filled with vivid details, unique personalities, and a sense of wonder that perfectly balances the deeper emotional themes of the story.
As Lily Mae and Francis’s friendship blossoms into something more, readers can’t help but hope that happiness is finally within their grasp. The romance develops naturally and beautifully, built on trust, friendship, and mutual respect rather than instant attraction. Their relationship feels genuine, making every triumph sweeter and every setback more painful.
And then comes the moment that changes everything.
Without warning, tragedy strikes when a rogue troop train collides with the stalled circus train in a catastrophic accident. The devastation is both shocking and heartbreaking, sending ripples through every character’s life. The emotional weight of this portion of the story is immense, and I found myself turning pages faster, desperate to see how Lily Mae and Francis would navigate the overwhelming grief and uncertainty that followed.
What truly sets this novel apart is its message. This isn’t simply a story about finding a lost mother or discovering romance. It’s about discovering that hope remains when dreams fall apart. It’s about learning that faith can endure when answers don’t come. And it’s about recognizing that love often appears in the most unexpected places.
The themes of resilience, redemption, family, and God’s faithfulness are woven seamlessly throughout the narrative, creating a story that is both emotionally gripping and spiritually uplifting.
If you enjoy historical Christian fiction, orphan train stories, heartfelt romance, and characters who must cling to faith through unimaginable trials, this book is one you won’t want to miss.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Beautifully written, deeply moving, and filled with hope, this novel is an unforgettable journey through heartbreak and healing. Keep a box of tissues nearby—you’ll need it—but prepare to be encouraged by a story that proves even shattered dreams cannot extinguish the light of hope.
So if you enjoy Christian Historical Fiction, check out The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch along with the rest of the Enduring Hope series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Hope on the Rails: A Heart-Stirring Journey of Love, Loss, and Faith
What would you do if the only clue to your past was the mother who left you behind?
That question drives Lily Mae Dodge on a courageous and emotional journey that quickly swept me into her story and refused to let go. Filled with historical detail, unforgettable characters, tender romance, and heartbreaking tragedy, this novel delivers a powerful reminder that hope can survive even the darkest circumstances.
Ten years after being sent west on an orphan train, Lily Mae can no longer ignore the longing to find the mother who gave her away. Determined to uncover the truth, she escapes Wyoming and heads for Chicago, believing the answers she’s searched for all her life are finally within reach.
But life has other plans.
After finding herself in trouble shortly after arriving, Lily Mae receives help from an unexpected source—Francis Basnett, a circus roustabout whose rare vision impairment shapes how he experiences the world. Francis is one of those rare heroes who quietly steal your heart. His kindness, humility, and unwavering compassion make him a perfect counterpart to Lily Mae’s fierce determination.
Together, they find refuge in the colorful and fascinating world of the Hagenbeck-Wallace circus. The circus setting practically comes alive on the page, filled with vivid details, unique personalities, and a sense of wonder that perfectly balances the deeper emotional themes of the story.
As Lily Mae and Francis’s friendship blossoms into something more, readers can’t help but hope that happiness is finally within their grasp. The romance develops naturally and beautifully, built on trust, friendship, and mutual respect rather than instant attraction. Their relationship feels genuine, making every triumph sweeter and every setback more painful.
And then comes the moment that changes everything.
Without warning, tragedy strikes when a rogue troop train collides with the stalled circus train in a catastrophic accident. The devastation is both shocking and heartbreaking, sending ripples through every character’s life. The emotional weight of this portion of the story is immense, and I found myself turning pages faster, desperate to see how Lily Mae and Francis would navigate the overwhelming grief and uncertainty that followed.
What truly sets this novel apart is its message. This isn’t simply a story about finding a lost mother or discovering romance. It’s about discovering that hope remains when dreams fall apart. It’s about learning that faith can endure when answers don’t come. And it’s about recognizing that love often appears in the most unexpected places.
The themes of resilience, redemption, family, and God’s faithfulness are woven seamlessly throughout the narrative, creating a story that is both emotionally gripping and spiritually uplifting.
If you enjoy historical Christian fiction, orphan train stories, heartfelt romance, and characters who must cling to faith through unimaginable trials, this book is one you won’t want to miss.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Beautifully written, deeply moving, and filled with hope, this novel is an unforgettable journey through heartbreak and healing. Keep a box of tissues nearby—you’ll need it—but prepare to be encouraged by a story that proves even shattered dreams cannot extinguish the light of hope.
So if you enjoy Christian Historical Fiction, check out The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch along with the rest of the Enduring Hope series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
June 25, 2026
This amazing story completely drew me in from the very first pages. Naomi Musch has crafted a story that feels remarkably authentic, blending unforgettable characters, fascinating history, and a faith-filled message that lingers long after the final chapter.
Lily Mae Dodge’s story is heartbreaking from the start. Sent west on an orphan train by her recently widowed mother in hopes of giving her a better future, she instead grows up with a foster family who treats her as little more than unpaid labor. Determined to escape the abuse, Lily secretly saves money through her work as a seamstress and boards a train to Chicago with one goal: find her mother and younger brother. Alone, wary of others, and carrying years of disappointment, she’s reluctant to trust anyone—especially the kind stranger seated beside her.
Francis Basnett quickly became one of my favorite characters. Living with a rare vision impairment that will likely leave him blind, and having been rejected from military service during the Great War because of it, he refuses to let his circumstances define him. Working as a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, Francis is hardworking, compassionate, practical, and endlessly kind. His quiet strength, willingness to help others, and patient care for Lily made him incredibly easy to admire. Watching their friendship slowly blossom into love was one of my favorite parts of the novel.
When Francis helps Lily find work with the circus tailoring team, Lily finally begins to experience the feeling of belonging. The circus family becomes exactly that—a family, to Francis too. Which makes the historical tragedy that follows all the more devastating.
I had never heard of the Hagenbeck-Wallace circus train wreck before reading this novel, and I was amazed to learn it was the deadliest railway disaster involving a circus in U.S. history. Musch brings this real event vividly to life through Lily’s and Francis’s perspectives. The scenes are emotional and powerful without becoming overly graphic, allowing readers to experience the grief, confusion, and heartbreak alongside the characters.
Although the novel isn’t especially long, so much happens within its pages. The pacing kept me fully engaged, and the author’s storytelling flows naturally, making it easy to become completely immersed in the story.
One of the things I appreciated most was the spiritual thread woven throughout the novel. Lily and Francis both grow in their faith as they learn to trust that God remains good, even when life doesn’t unfold as they hoped. Their journey beautifully illustrates themes of loss, healing, forgiveness, perseverance, and finding strength in the One who never fails.
The supporting cast adds even more heart to the story. Little Susie and Francis’s loving family provided a beautiful contrast to Lily’s loneliness, highlighting the gift of earthly family while pointing to God’s unfailing love and providence.
I also appreciated that the plot never became predictable. Several unexpected twists kept me guessing, and I absolutely loved the ending.
This is a deeply inspiring historical novel filled with hope, compassion, unforgettable characters, and a beautiful reminder that even after unimaginable loss, God is still writing our story. I highly recommend it. You’ll find yourself attached to these characters almost immediately and cheering for them until the very last page.
I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Lily Mae Dodge’s story is heartbreaking from the start. Sent west on an orphan train by her recently widowed mother in hopes of giving her a better future, she instead grows up with a foster family who treats her as little more than unpaid labor. Determined to escape the abuse, Lily secretly saves money through her work as a seamstress and boards a train to Chicago with one goal: find her mother and younger brother. Alone, wary of others, and carrying years of disappointment, she’s reluctant to trust anyone—especially the kind stranger seated beside her.
Francis Basnett quickly became one of my favorite characters. Living with a rare vision impairment that will likely leave him blind, and having been rejected from military service during the Great War because of it, he refuses to let his circumstances define him. Working as a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, Francis is hardworking, compassionate, practical, and endlessly kind. His quiet strength, willingness to help others, and patient care for Lily made him incredibly easy to admire. Watching their friendship slowly blossom into love was one of my favorite parts of the novel.
When Francis helps Lily find work with the circus tailoring team, Lily finally begins to experience the feeling of belonging. The circus family becomes exactly that—a family, to Francis too. Which makes the historical tragedy that follows all the more devastating.
I had never heard of the Hagenbeck-Wallace circus train wreck before reading this novel, and I was amazed to learn it was the deadliest railway disaster involving a circus in U.S. history. Musch brings this real event vividly to life through Lily’s and Francis’s perspectives. The scenes are emotional and powerful without becoming overly graphic, allowing readers to experience the grief, confusion, and heartbreak alongside the characters.
Although the novel isn’t especially long, so much happens within its pages. The pacing kept me fully engaged, and the author’s storytelling flows naturally, making it easy to become completely immersed in the story.
One of the things I appreciated most was the spiritual thread woven throughout the novel. Lily and Francis both grow in their faith as they learn to trust that God remains good, even when life doesn’t unfold as they hoped. Their journey beautifully illustrates themes of loss, healing, forgiveness, perseverance, and finding strength in the One who never fails.
The supporting cast adds even more heart to the story. Little Susie and Francis’s loving family provided a beautiful contrast to Lily’s loneliness, highlighting the gift of earthly family while pointing to God’s unfailing love and providence.
I also appreciated that the plot never became predictable. Several unexpected twists kept me guessing, and I absolutely loved the ending.
This is a deeply inspiring historical novel filled with hope, compassion, unforgettable characters, and a beautiful reminder that even after unimaginable loss, God is still writing our story. I highly recommend it. You’ll find yourself attached to these characters almost immediately and cheering for them until the very last page.
I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 stars
"Will you come along, Lily? Will you run away to the circus with a fellow you hardly know?"
When Lily Mae Dodge slipped into the night, she never imagined a future with a traveling circus, she was just trying to escape a suffocating placement with a family that wasn't even hers. Sent by her widowed mother to an orphanage at a young age, Lily was then transported by train to a foster home in Wyoming where she was expected to work like a hired hand without any pay. Lily dreamed of more. Would a chance encounter on a train, traversing back towards the only place she remembered as almost home, change the trajectory of her life forever?
Francis Basnett, whose severe eye condition prevented him from serving in the Great War, has been working as a roustabout for the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus for years. When he chooses the seat beside Lily on the train to Chicago and uses their time together to draw out a few details, his generous heart cannot help but offer her whatever measure of kindess she chooses to accept. Could it be more?
The story that follows is nothing short of remarkable.
With exceptional depth of character and story, this novel explores not only the history surrounding the lives spent among the tents of a traveling circus, but the unspeakable tragedy that killed so many members of the renowned Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. Visiting numerous cities along the railways of America and through the view of these "tomorrow's towns", Lily and Francis' experiences mirror those of the circus itself; perfecting new skills, overcoming insurmountable obstacles, and journeying from fear to faith one loving road stop at a time, inviting love to join them softly and surely.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, the opinions stated above are entirely my own.
"Will you come along, Lily? Will you run away to the circus with a fellow you hardly know?"
When Lily Mae Dodge slipped into the night, she never imagined a future with a traveling circus, she was just trying to escape a suffocating placement with a family that wasn't even hers. Sent by her widowed mother to an orphanage at a young age, Lily was then transported by train to a foster home in Wyoming where she was expected to work like a hired hand without any pay. Lily dreamed of more. Would a chance encounter on a train, traversing back towards the only place she remembered as almost home, change the trajectory of her life forever?
Francis Basnett, whose severe eye condition prevented him from serving in the Great War, has been working as a roustabout for the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus for years. When he chooses the seat beside Lily on the train to Chicago and uses their time together to draw out a few details, his generous heart cannot help but offer her whatever measure of kindess she chooses to accept. Could it be more?
The story that follows is nothing short of remarkable.
With exceptional depth of character and story, this novel explores not only the history surrounding the lives spent among the tents of a traveling circus, but the unspeakable tragedy that killed so many members of the renowned Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. Visiting numerous cities along the railways of America and through the view of these "tomorrow's towns", Lily and Francis' experiences mirror those of the circus itself; perfecting new skills, overcoming insurmountable obstacles, and journeying from fear to faith one loving road stop at a time, inviting love to join them softly and surely.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, the opinions stated above are entirely my own.
June 28, 2026
Girl from Tomorrow’s Town
by Naomi Musch
Rating: 5 star rating
I just finished reading The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch, and I loved it so much. It’s a sweet historical romance about a girl named Lily who was sent away on an orphan train when she was little. She lived with a family in Wyoming for over 10 years, but she never felt like she belonged, and the family was not very good to her, so she finally runs away to find her real mom.
Shortly after getting on the train in Wyoming, she meets Francis "Frank" Basnett, and they become traveling companions. When they get to Chicago, the police catch up to her because her adoptive mother tried to charge her with stealing money. Frank sticks right by her side through the whole mess. Luckily, Lily clears her name by explaining that she secretly made all that money doing sewing work on the side, and they prove she is telling the truth.
After they part ways, they meet up again later when Frank helps her get a sewing job at the traveling circus where he works. Frank is a really nice guy, but he is secretly losing his eyesight. They grow really close, but a disaster strikes when a troop train crashes into their circus train, leaving everyone fighting to survive. The story is a beautiful, emotionally moving journey that tests their relationship and their trust in the future.
This is a wonderful, clean historical fiction novel about resilience, romance, and discovering what it truly means to find your family. I highly recommend picking this book up, if you want a nice clean historical romance.
Thank you, NetGalley, Barbour Publishing, and the author Naomi Musch for the book review consideration. All opinions are my own.
#NetGalley
#BarbourPublishing
#NaomiMusch
#TheGirlfromTomorrowsTown
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by Naomi Musch
Rating: 5 star rating
I just finished reading The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch, and I loved it so much. It’s a sweet historical romance about a girl named Lily who was sent away on an orphan train when she was little. She lived with a family in Wyoming for over 10 years, but she never felt like she belonged, and the family was not very good to her, so she finally runs away to find her real mom.
Shortly after getting on the train in Wyoming, she meets Francis "Frank" Basnett, and they become traveling companions. When they get to Chicago, the police catch up to her because her adoptive mother tried to charge her with stealing money. Frank sticks right by her side through the whole mess. Luckily, Lily clears her name by explaining that she secretly made all that money doing sewing work on the side, and they prove she is telling the truth.
After they part ways, they meet up again later when Frank helps her get a sewing job at the traveling circus where he works. Frank is a really nice guy, but he is secretly losing his eyesight. They grow really close, but a disaster strikes when a troop train crashes into their circus train, leaving everyone fighting to survive. The story is a beautiful, emotionally moving journey that tests their relationship and their trust in the future.
This is a wonderful, clean historical fiction novel about resilience, romance, and discovering what it truly means to find your family. I highly recommend picking this book up, if you want a nice clean historical romance.
Thank you, NetGalley, Barbour Publishing, and the author Naomi Musch for the book review consideration. All opinions are my own.
#NetGalley
#BarbourPublishing
#NaomiMusch
#TheGirlfromTomorrowsTown
http://goodreads.com/patriciasreading...
http://www.patriciasreadingroom.blogs...
July 16, 2026
A beautiful story of redemption and finding hope in this historical adventure. I loved learning about the circus and all the people who put it together. The author is a creative writer who gives us characters who are looking for a place to belong. It was easy to like the characters because they are flawed yet always turning to their faith,
Lily and Francis are perfect for each other but it will take some time for them to find their way to each other. Lily has a past that haunts her because she desperately wants to find her mom who deserted her. I liked how she worked hard and saved money so she could be out on her own. She travels by train with a plan to find her mother. With little remembrance of her past she searches for the truth to her past. Her emotional journey leaves readers with an illustration of never giving up.
Francis works for the circus and runs into Lily as they both travel on the same train. He knows that many people look at him wondering why he isn’t serving his country like other men are. If they only knew that his vision is so poor he can barely see they would be more understanding. When Lily and Francis meet on the train they strike up a friendship. This begins a journey that will find them both working at the circus as well as face tragedy.
Get ready for a story rich in historical facts based on a true story. The richness of the characters are undeniable as they follow their hearts and seek God for answers. I learned about a tragic train accident that took lives so unexpectedly. This tragedy changes things for Lily and Francis. Our main characters find that they can trust each other and begin to develop feelings for each other. Faith is at the center of this story where a new beginning awaits.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Lily and Francis are perfect for each other but it will take some time for them to find their way to each other. Lily has a past that haunts her because she desperately wants to find her mom who deserted her. I liked how she worked hard and saved money so she could be out on her own. She travels by train with a plan to find her mother. With little remembrance of her past she searches for the truth to her past. Her emotional journey leaves readers with an illustration of never giving up.
Francis works for the circus and runs into Lily as they both travel on the same train. He knows that many people look at him wondering why he isn’t serving his country like other men are. If they only knew that his vision is so poor he can barely see they would be more understanding. When Lily and Francis meet on the train they strike up a friendship. This begins a journey that will find them both working at the circus as well as face tragedy.
Get ready for a story rich in historical facts based on a true story. The richness of the characters are undeniable as they follow their hearts and seek God for answers. I learned about a tragic train accident that took lives so unexpectedly. This tragedy changes things for Lily and Francis. Our main characters find that they can trust each other and begin to develop feelings for each other. Faith is at the center of this story where a new beginning awaits.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Read
May 30, 2026This was a fascinating look inside the workings of a traveling circus! From the people who erected the many colorful tents, cooked food, mended costumes to the performers themselves. It’s like one big family where each person has a place & purpose and serves in the capacity of making magic happen for crowds in the various towns they stop at. I really enjoyed the glimpse into a world I had no idea about!
Francis is a roustabout, or man of many trades, when it comes to working in for Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. He does anything from grunt work, to making sure things run smoothly & efficiently. With war going on, he is unable to enlist due to an eye condition. But it doesn’t stop him from doing what he’s come to love, and that is working for the circus. He meets Lily along the way and that’s where this story takes a fun twist. She’s running from a family that took her in years ago from the orphan train, but it has never felt like “home”. Her only goal is to find her birth mother and a place she can finally feel like she belongs.
I really enjoyed watching life play out for these two. There are many ups & downs and the author does an excellent job in bringing these characters alive in my mind. There’s also a good many number of historical events that happened and I loved learning about these. This is my first book by Naomi Musch, but certainly not my last! She has a way of naturally incorporating faith and involving my heart in every aspect of this story. A wonderful novel filled with history, faith, a satisfying happily-ever-after, and many characters to come to love! Another great addition to the Enduring Hope stand-alone series.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. *
Francis is a roustabout, or man of many trades, when it comes to working in for Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. He does anything from grunt work, to making sure things run smoothly & efficiently. With war going on, he is unable to enlist due to an eye condition. But it doesn’t stop him from doing what he’s come to love, and that is working for the circus. He meets Lily along the way and that’s where this story takes a fun twist. She’s running from a family that took her in years ago from the orphan train, but it has never felt like “home”. Her only goal is to find her birth mother and a place she can finally feel like she belongs.
I really enjoyed watching life play out for these two. There are many ups & downs and the author does an excellent job in bringing these characters alive in my mind. There’s also a good many number of historical events that happened and I loved learning about these. This is my first book by Naomi Musch, but certainly not my last! She has a way of naturally incorporating faith and involving my heart in every aspect of this story. A wonderful novel filled with history, faith, a satisfying happily-ever-after, and many characters to come to love! Another great addition to the Enduring Hope stand-alone series.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. *
June 8, 2026
About the Book:
Past and Present Collide on the Railway
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.
Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.
More from the Enduring Hope
The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee
My Review:
Y'all! I just don't trust this people affiliated with the circus back then. So I'm already on high alert when this Francis Basnett enters the picture. I just feel like he will lead Lily Mae in the wrong direction.
So back in the day shortly after the Civil War era there were traveling circus' that real hired just anyone off the street so Lily was guaranteed a job by this Francis person. But trains were also robbed during this time quite a bit. So Lily finds herself in a precarious situation before she ever gets to her stop.
I'm a girls girl so I'm always cheering girls on. Anytime we can succeed without failing I'm all over it. This series has been phenomenal in that it shows us overcoming so much.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Past and Present Collide on the Railway
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.
Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.
More from the Enduring Hope
The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee
My Review:
Y'all! I just don't trust this people affiliated with the circus back then. So I'm already on high alert when this Francis Basnett enters the picture. I just feel like he will lead Lily Mae in the wrong direction.
So back in the day shortly after the Civil War era there were traveling circus' that real hired just anyone off the street so Lily was guaranteed a job by this Francis person. But trains were also robbed during this time quite a bit. So Lily finds herself in a precarious situation before she ever gets to her stop.
I'm a girls girl so I'm always cheering girls on. Anytime we can succeed without failing I'm all over it. This series has been phenomenal in that it shows us overcoming so much.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 14, 2026
This is another story in the Enduring Hope series, and it focuses on the Hagenbeck-Wallace circus train wreck that claimed dozens of lives and seriously injured others. I had never heard of this tragedy that took place in 1918, while a lot of our men were overseas fighting in World War 1. I am thankful to authors for bringing these historical accounts to life for future generations.
This story revolves around Lily and Francis. Lily has run away from the home where she grew up in to search for her mother. It is time as things are only getting worse with the family she lives with. As she embarks on her journey, she meets Francis a young man who has eye issues and cannot see properly. He is at risk of losing his eyesight all together and the condition that he has was also interesting to learn about. It is like color blindness only much more severe. I have a son who is color blind, so this was something to learn about.
After some coaxing, Francis is able to make friends with Lily, helping her out when she will let him. She eventually agrees to follow him to the circus he works for, and she meets another whole host of people. As I was reading this my feelings were all over the place as I knew the tragedy was coming that would upend all of their lives. There is a romance thread as Francis learns to open his heart again and let Lily love him.
Based on historical events and medical conditions, this was a good read to get lost in and learn something along the way.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
This story revolves around Lily and Francis. Lily has run away from the home where she grew up in to search for her mother. It is time as things are only getting worse with the family she lives with. As she embarks on her journey, she meets Francis a young man who has eye issues and cannot see properly. He is at risk of losing his eyesight all together and the condition that he has was also interesting to learn about. It is like color blindness only much more severe. I have a son who is color blind, so this was something to learn about.
After some coaxing, Francis is able to make friends with Lily, helping her out when she will let him. She eventually agrees to follow him to the circus he works for, and she meets another whole host of people. As I was reading this my feelings were all over the place as I knew the tragedy was coming that would upend all of their lives. There is a romance thread as Francis learns to open his heart again and let Lily love him.
Based on historical events and medical conditions, this was a good read to get lost in and learn something along the way.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
June 28, 2026
Lily Dodge runs away from the farm in Wyoming and gets on a train headed east. She knows she no longer wants to be a part of the Fletcher family, can't be stuck there forever and wants to find answers about her real family. What happened that her mother sent her on an orphan train when she was little? Why? How could a mother do this to their child? She meets Frank Basnett as he takes the seat next to her and learns he works for the traveling circus. She is fascinated but also still leery as she is a single woman traveling alone. Soon the two get comfortable with each other and she agrees to let him help her once they get to Chicago. Life in the circus is an adventure and she is making money to eventually search for her mother. When a tragic train accident happens, Lily is terrified that something happened to Frank when she can't find him in the wreckage and no hospital has a record of him. Taking in an orphaned girl from the wreck, Lily decides she will do anything to protect and love this little girl, she herself was once an orphan and knows what that feels like. Her life has changed so much in just a few short weeks, but she wouldn't change it for anything. Now she has someone she cares about and will do anything to get answers for her past. I really enjoyed the history in this novel as well that it was set in the midwest and a part of Wisconsin. Loved the characters, storyline and how everything came together in the end. Thank you to the author and publisher for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lily Mae was taken to an orphanage when her widowed mother could no longer care for her. Not long after, she was put on an orphan train & taken in by a farm couple who needed help with their family & farm. As Lily nears 18 yr of age, she runs away from the Fletchers. Life there has been difficult at times, and she fears for her future. She boards a train, not really knowing where she's going. On the train, Lily meets kindly Francis who suffers from total color blindness. He's almost blind in bright light and wears dark glasses. Francis helps Lily find a job as a seamstress at the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus (a real circus in history). He is a roustabout, setting up & tearing down tents, etc. They manage to meet most days, where they build a friendship & get to know other circus family. On June 22, 1918 one of the circus trains is hit by a speeding troop train. (another true event) Many people are killed & injured. Francis has a serious injury to recover from, but Lily & little Suzie (orphaned) are there to help him. They journey together to Lily's former home to try to discover what happened to her mother & baby brother. I enjoyed reading about some of the inside workings of circus life. Often books portray it as being full of "sketchy" people, but this story portrays them as a caring community, which I'm sure was common. This is a well written story of learning about trust & the meaning of family.
May 22, 2026
Book Review: The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch
PUB DATE: June 1, 2026
Historical Fiction and Romance
Inspirational Fiction
My Rating: 3.5⭐s
The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town is Book 5 in the historical fiction Enduring Hope series. Each book in the series is a standalone novel. Set in the early twentieth century midwest, nineteen year old Lily Mae Dodge is fleeing her Wyoming “home” of 10 years in hopes of finding freedom, independence, and the mother she hasn’t seen since she was nine years old. On her journey, she meets and strikes up a friendship with twenty-four year old visually impaired Francis who takes her under his wing. Francis, employed as a roustabout with the traveling circus, helps Lily get a job with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus as a seamstress so she can search for her mother as they travel from town to town.
This novel is based on the 1918 Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus train crash and its aftermath. The story is an inspirational tale of courage and love. It is refreshing to read a story with the sweet wholesome characters, Lily and Francis. Although the story is based on a real life tragic event, the themes of courage and love are uplifting and inspirational.
I rated this novel 3.5 stars. It is a quick, enjoyable read that is just perfect to pick up after completing a heavy, emotional book.
Thank you to Barbour Fiction for the digital copy of The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch.
PUB DATE: June 1, 2026
Historical Fiction and Romance
Inspirational Fiction
My Rating: 3.5⭐s
The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town is Book 5 in the historical fiction Enduring Hope series. Each book in the series is a standalone novel. Set in the early twentieth century midwest, nineteen year old Lily Mae Dodge is fleeing her Wyoming “home” of 10 years in hopes of finding freedom, independence, and the mother she hasn’t seen since she was nine years old. On her journey, she meets and strikes up a friendship with twenty-four year old visually impaired Francis who takes her under his wing. Francis, employed as a roustabout with the traveling circus, helps Lily get a job with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus as a seamstress so she can search for her mother as they travel from town to town.
This novel is based on the 1918 Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus train crash and its aftermath. The story is an inspirational tale of courage and love. It is refreshing to read a story with the sweet wholesome characters, Lily and Francis. Although the story is based on a real life tragic event, the themes of courage and love are uplifting and inspirational.
I rated this novel 3.5 stars. It is a quick, enjoyable read that is just perfect to pick up after completing a heavy, emotional book.
Thank you to Barbour Fiction for the digital copy of The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I couldn't decide what I liked best about this book. The romance between Francis and Lily with the search for Lily's mother and the story of Susie thrown into the storyline made this a heart-fluttering bit of fiction. On the other hand was the historical relevance. This book dealt not only with the tragic wreck of the circus train, a real-life event, but also with Francis and his family in experiencing their eye difficulties along with the orphan train and how what seemed to be a good thing did not always work out that way. I enjoyed this story and all the research the author must have done to relate the workings of a circus in a real and relevant manner.
Lily and Francis look for their HEA among all the difficulties they face and never allow themselves to give into despair or hopelessness, leaving their futures in the hands of God to be used for His good purposes. Lily's time with the Fletchers, though challenging, taught her many skills she would need to be successful in her later life. Francis' eye problem almost convinced him to give up on love leaving the way open for his Heaven-chosen match to come into his life.
Pick up a copy of The Girl From Tomorrow's Town and expect to be delighted by sweet romance and learn a little something about events in history. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Lily and Francis look for their HEA among all the difficulties they face and never allow themselves to give into despair or hopelessness, leaving their futures in the hands of God to be used for His good purposes. Lily's time with the Fletchers, though challenging, taught her many skills she would need to be successful in her later life. Francis' eye problem almost convinced him to give up on love leaving the way open for his Heaven-chosen match to come into his life.
Pick up a copy of The Girl From Tomorrow's Town and expect to be delighted by sweet romance and learn a little something about events in history. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
June 3, 2026
The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town
by Naomi Musch
(Enduring Hope)
Past and Present Collide on the Railway
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.
Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.
The Girl from Tomorrow's Town is the fifth standalone novel in Barbour's Enduring Hope historical romance series.
My favorite quote is
Please , God . Help me get to the train on time. Please don't let Ma Fletcher or any of the children wake up and fine I 've gone father that the creek. Not yet.
There would be a train at six twenty.
I recommend this book.
The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch
is a 4-star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Naomi Musch.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
by Naomi Musch
(Enduring Hope)
Past and Present Collide on the Railway
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.
Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.
The Girl from Tomorrow's Town is the fifth standalone novel in Barbour's Enduring Hope historical romance series.
My favorite quote is
Please , God . Help me get to the train on time. Please don't let Ma Fletcher or any of the children wake up and fine I 've gone father that the creek. Not yet.
There would be a train at six twenty.
I recommend this book.
The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town by Naomi Musch
is a 4-star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Naomi Musch.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
June 11, 2026
I'm always amazed at the things I can learn from reading historical fiction. I knew about the orphan train programs that ran from the 1850s to the 1920s, placing hundreds of thousands of orphans with different families, with differing results for the children. I didn't know, however, about the horrific train crash that killed so many members of the Hagenbeck-Wallace circus family.
Naomi Musch has penned a fascinating tale about two people meeting by chance and developing a friendship that changes both their lives. Orphaned Lily May Dodge escaped her life of hardship with a foster family in Wyoming and headed back east to try to find her mother and brother. When circus roustabout Francis Basnett finds a seat beside her on the train, they strike up a conversation. His failing vision has left him with insecurities, but he invites Lily to join up with the circus. When a terrible train crash devastates the circus, their lives change once again, and they find themselves facing new challenges.
I was impressed with the depth of the characters and the growth in them that the author portrayed. The plot was engrossing and kept my interest, and I enjoyed reading the author's notes at the back of the book, detailing more about the historical aspects of the story. Themes of hope, faith, and overcoming adversity add depth and inspiration to it. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. All opinions are my own.
Naomi Musch has penned a fascinating tale about two people meeting by chance and developing a friendship that changes both their lives. Orphaned Lily May Dodge escaped her life of hardship with a foster family in Wyoming and headed back east to try to find her mother and brother. When circus roustabout Francis Basnett finds a seat beside her on the train, they strike up a conversation. His failing vision has left him with insecurities, but he invites Lily to join up with the circus. When a terrible train crash devastates the circus, their lives change once again, and they find themselves facing new challenges.
I was impressed with the depth of the characters and the growth in them that the author portrayed. The plot was engrossing and kept my interest, and I enjoyed reading the author's notes at the back of the book, detailing more about the historical aspects of the story. Themes of hope, faith, and overcoming adversity add depth and inspiration to it. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. All opinions are my own.
June 16, 2026
Author Naomi Musch truly understands the formula for great historical fiction. Find a little-known subject or event, research it extensively, and then weave a fascinating fictional story around those facts. This is a perfect description of The Girl from Tomorrow's Town, the newest book in the Enduring Hope series. I wasn't familiar with the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus or the train crash that occurred one fateful night in 1918, near Hammond, Indiana. Many circus performers died, many more were seriously injured, and most of their true identities are unknown to this day.
Endearing characters, vivid descriptions, and a captivating look at circus life make this a compelling story! Lily Mae Dodge was sent west on the Orphan Train, but she's now heading back east to search for her mother. This search introduces her to Francis Bassett and the performers of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus and eventually leads to her involvement in the tragic train crash. I felt the terror, heard the sounds, and experienced the shock during the crash, along with Lily Mae's desperation when she couldn't find Francis. What follows is a story of faith, hope, and the search for 'happily-ever-after'. I highly recommend The Girl from Tomorrow's Town to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.
Endearing characters, vivid descriptions, and a captivating look at circus life make this a compelling story! Lily Mae Dodge was sent west on the Orphan Train, but she's now heading back east to search for her mother. This search introduces her to Francis Bassett and the performers of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus and eventually leads to her involvement in the tragic train crash. I felt the terror, heard the sounds, and experienced the shock during the crash, along with Lily Mae's desperation when she couldn't find Francis. What follows is a story of faith, hope, and the search for 'happily-ever-after'. I highly recommend The Girl from Tomorrow's Town to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town” by Naomi Musch is an insightful historical fiction tale that takes readers into the world of orphan trains, circus members, WWI, and the terrible train wreck caused by a rogue troop train in 1918. Lily has lived in Wyoming for 10 years, after being sent on an orphan train away from her mother. She sneaks out of the house and takes the train out of town, and that is where she meets Francis, a roustabout for the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. Lily needs a job, so Francis helps her find one as a seamstress for the circus. Readers will fall in love with these two characters. Naomi Musch did a wonderful job developing the characters in this story, and weaving such a wonderful plot around the actual historical events. I wanted this story to go on and on! God’s truth is woven seamlessly and effortlessly into the plot through the lives and experiences of the characters, so it feels natural and not preachy. This was such a wonderful historical fiction story, and I wish I could read more about Francis, Lily, Susie, and so many more characters. This book has also inspired me to read more about the train wreck and those who passed in that tragedy. I highly recommend this book, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I will be looking for more books by this author!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Girl From Tomorrow's Town follows Lily Mae Dodge as she journeys to find family and a home of her own. The story immediately ropes readers in as Lily makes a daring nighttime escape from her past. The unknown of what Lily would encounter kept me turning pages to see what would happen and who she would meet next.
Francis is a hero with a unique perspective. His kind heart and gentle, protective nature toward Lily quickly won me over as their friendship develops into a sweet romance. But their faith and hopes are tested when tragedy and trials strike. Will lasting love be enough to overcome and will their hope endure?
This story touches on a real-life historical event I had never heard of, prompting me to research further after story's end.
I enjoyed so much about this story. The strong characters and faith, the circus atmosphere, found family, and the author's original tone.
Only a couple of minor things kept this from being a five-star read for me. The romance progressed a little too quickly. I would have preferred to see the friendship develop some more. There were also a few times of unnecessary repetitiveness that did not add to the story.
Over all, this is a historical, Christian fiction read I would recommend and read again.
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Francis is a hero with a unique perspective. His kind heart and gentle, protective nature toward Lily quickly won me over as their friendship develops into a sweet romance. But their faith and hopes are tested when tragedy and trials strike. Will lasting love be enough to overcome and will their hope endure?
This story touches on a real-life historical event I had never heard of, prompting me to research further after story's end.
I enjoyed so much about this story. The strong characters and faith, the circus atmosphere, found family, and the author's original tone.
Only a couple of minor things kept this from being a five-star read for me. The romance progressed a little too quickly. I would have preferred to see the friendship develop some more. There were also a few times of unnecessary repetitiveness that did not add to the story.
Over all, this is a historical, Christian fiction read I would recommend and read again.
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 8, 2026
“The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town” by Naomi Musch is an insightful historical fiction tale that takes readers into the world of orphan trains, circus members, WWI, and the terrible train wreck caused by a rogue troop train in 1918. Lily has lived in Wyoming for 10 years, after being sent on an orphan train away from her mother. She sneaks out of the house and takes the train out of town, and that is where she meets Francis, a roustabout for the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. Lily needs a job, so Francis helps her find one as a seamstress for the circus. Readers will fall in love with these two characters. Naomi Musch did a wonderful job developing the characters in this story, and weaving such a wonderful plot around the actual historical events. I wanted this story to go on and on! God’s truth is woven seamlessly and effortlessly into the plot through the lives and experiences of the characters, so it feels natural and not preachy. This was such a wonderful historical fiction story, and I wish I could read more about Francis, Lily, Susie, and so many more characters. This book has also inspired me to read more about the train wreck and those who passed in that tragedy. I highly recommend this book, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I will be looking for more books by this author!
June 18, 2026
With only 247 pages this book is absolutely amazing with so much historical information in it as well as a story that is so sweet and so full of hope readers will be deeply touched.
Lillie Mae Dodge has been sent away on an orphan train and placed with a family that uses her to do their bidding instead of cherishing her as a child. When she saves enough money and manages to run away and board a train that is heading east to find her mother, it is there that she has a chance meeting with a young man who suffers from vision loss. Francis Basnett is a worker with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. He works hard as roustabout putting up tents and other things the crews need him to do. He is drawn to Lillie and takes her under his wing. Lillie confides in Francis that she is looking for her mother who gave her up years ago. The two form a bond that is so kind and tender as they navigate their days together and then when a devastating train crash carrying troops into battle during WWI rams into the circus train many die and are injured and Lillie finds herself at a loss when Francis is among the missing.
Lillie has to rely on and her faith to carry her through the days.
This book is historically accurate and a wonderful story of perseverance and faith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review
Lillie Mae Dodge has been sent away on an orphan train and placed with a family that uses her to do their bidding instead of cherishing her as a child. When she saves enough money and manages to run away and board a train that is heading east to find her mother, it is there that she has a chance meeting with a young man who suffers from vision loss. Francis Basnett is a worker with the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. He works hard as roustabout putting up tents and other things the crews need him to do. He is drawn to Lillie and takes her under his wing. Lillie confides in Francis that she is looking for her mother who gave her up years ago. The two form a bond that is so kind and tender as they navigate their days together and then when a devastating train crash carrying troops into battle during WWI rams into the circus train many die and are injured and Lillie finds herself at a loss when Francis is among the missing.
Lillie has to rely on and her faith to carry her through the days.
This book is historically accurate and a wonderful story of perseverance and faith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a great read. I like books set around a circus plus family sagas. This involves both. I wondered where the book was going at first, when Lily runs away from the family she's been living with. I felt the story really started when she got on the train and met Francis. What an adventure the 2 had. I loved meeting the different characters from the circus, plus the Main Characters families. Suzie was also delightful. It's hard to write a review without putting too many spoilers in to be honest. There were some tough scenes in this book that I wasn't expecting and the Author kept you guessing what was going to happen. Parts of this book is also based on true events, I believe.
Here are some quotes that I liked:-
"God didn't promise to remove our suffering while we're here, but He promises to be the lap we can climb into while we go through it. He will hold us and love us through. He'll give us peace." (I need to remember this).
"Thank you God for all of it" (Again I need to remember to thank God).
Although this is part of "Enduring Hope" Series, These books are really standalone books.
Thank you Netgalley, for giving me a chance to read this and review. This review is all my own words.
Here are some quotes that I liked:-
"God didn't promise to remove our suffering while we're here, but He promises to be the lap we can climb into while we go through it. He will hold us and love us through. He'll give us peace." (I need to remember this).
"Thank you God for all of it" (Again I need to remember to thank God).
Although this is part of "Enduring Hope" Series, These books are really standalone books.
Thank you Netgalley, for giving me a chance to read this and review. This review is all my own words.
June 8, 2026
It’s often hard to read a book about a tragedy, especially one that never should have happened, and see any good come from it. Naomi Musch accomplished this beautifully in The Girl from Tomorrow’s Town. In this book, the act of Lily Dodge’s running away from a troubled family situation led to several life-changing moments, most of them positive. When she meets circus laborer Francis Basnett on an eastbound train, her life is forever changed. I had never heard of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus nor the tragedy that befell it until reading this book. I also learned some circus and medical terms along the way and got a glimpse of life in a circus in the early 20th century. But out of the ashes of this train disaster came storylines of hope, healing and God’s provision as well as forgiveness and the strengthening of family bonds. Lily and Francis were wonderful main characters who had much depth, strength, emotional and spiritual maturity. The secondary characters, including the families of Lily and Francis and sweet little Suzie, also added so much to the story. Beautifully done!
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.
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