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Orphan Moon
Librarian's Note: Alternate-cover edition for ISBN10: 0996235612 / ISBN13: 9780996235617
1860 - Palo Pinto, Texas: Under the spectacular glow of a Comanche moon, a family is slaughtered, their homestead torched.
Nineteen-year-old Barleigh Flanders survives the terrifying midnight raid. Fiercely determined to rebuild, she seizes an opportunity meant for another. It's a foolhardy, reckless scheme. Desperate, near penniless, it's her only hope.
Her grueling physical journey stretches from Texas, to Missouri, and into the rugged Utah Territory. However, it's her emotional journey that takes her to places of uncharted darkness, discovery, and redemption.
In Hughes Levesque, Barleigh gains an unsought ally with dark secrets of his own. A hired gun, it becomes his personal mission to keep Barleigh safe. Doing so may cost him his life, his job, and his heart, none of which he's keen to lose.
Orphan Moon is a heart-wrenching saga of family love, loss, and betrayal. Both a gripping adventure and a timeless love story, it gallops across the bleeding edge of the western frontier.
1860 - Palo Pinto, Texas: Under the spectacular glow of a Comanche moon, a family is slaughtered, their homestead torched.
Nineteen-year-old Barleigh Flanders survives the terrifying midnight raid. Fiercely determined to rebuild, she seizes an opportunity meant for another. It's a foolhardy, reckless scheme. Desperate, near penniless, it's her only hope.
Her grueling physical journey stretches from Texas, to Missouri, and into the rugged Utah Territory. However, it's her emotional journey that takes her to places of uncharted darkness, discovery, and redemption.
In Hughes Levesque, Barleigh gains an unsought ally with dark secrets of his own. A hired gun, it becomes his personal mission to keep Barleigh safe. Doing so may cost him his life, his job, and his heart, none of which he's keen to lose.
Orphan Moon is a heart-wrenching saga of family love, loss, and betrayal. Both a gripping adventure and a timeless love story, it gallops across the bleeding edge of the western frontier.
310 pages, Paperback
First published April 3, 2015
232 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
T.K. Lukas
3 books95 followersAs a young girl and long before she could remember remembering, there were two things in T.K. Lukas’s life: books, and horses. And mostly, the books she read were about horses.
When T.K. reached twelve years of age, her father surprised her with a birthday gift—her very own horse—a palomino gelding named “Thomas Dandy.” Dan, as she called him, was the first male to whom she gladly gave her heart.
Unfortunately, it was a short love affair. Two years later after a family tragedy, she had to surrender Dan to another owner. Depressed and rebellious, at times the only things to get T.K. through her misery were the stories playing out in her head, fanciful tales of magical horses—fast horses with swift hooves and kind eyes. The horses she conjured in her dreams would always be at the ready to spirit her away from any sadness.
At eighteen and graduated from High School, T.K. would journey through life wearing many hats, high-heels, and boots until finding her way home: ballroom dance instructor, US Air Force Air Traffic Controller (followed by a stint with the FAA), co-owner of a tree company, returning college student, Realtor, free-lance journalist, and finally, full-time novelist. Now, the circle complete, she once again focuses on the two things (er, three things) she loves: horses, books, and her husband and family.
T.K.’s life experiences and world travels fuel the native Texan’s ever-expanding imagination, which she pours into everything she writes. Combining history with fiction, fact with fantasy, she delivers stories that, at some point along the narrative, always have horses making their presence known.
Her first book, Orphan Moon, published in 2015, immediately climbed the charts and became an Amazon.com Kindle international best seller in several countries and on a variety of categorical lists, from U. S. Historical Fiction to Western Romance. Soon after its publication, Orphan Moon was chosen as a top-five-finalist in the 2015 Writers’ League of Texas Manuscript Contest, placing in the Historical Fiction category.
An active member of the Historical Novel Society, Writers’ League of Texas, and Romance Writers of America, the author continues to hone her craft by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars. In conjunction, she works closely and tirelessly with editors to make sure that what she brings to the reader is a quality product.
T.K. and her husband live in north-central Texas on a small ranch that they share with a variety of four-legged friends: equine, canine, feline, and bovine. Their three grown children are scattered across the globe. When not on horseback, T.K. enjoys international travel, snow skiing, photography, and collecting antique deviled egg plates. (The egg plates are a long story—please email her for that explanation. She’ll be delighted to share it with you, along with some favorite deviled egg recipes!)
For more information and to stay abreast with T.K. Lukas and her current projects, please visit http://www.tklukas.com or like her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/T.K.Lukas.Au...
When T.K. reached twelve years of age, her father surprised her with a birthday gift—her very own horse—a palomino gelding named “Thomas Dandy.” Dan, as she called him, was the first male to whom she gladly gave her heart.
Unfortunately, it was a short love affair. Two years later after a family tragedy, she had to surrender Dan to another owner. Depressed and rebellious, at times the only things to get T.K. through her misery were the stories playing out in her head, fanciful tales of magical horses—fast horses with swift hooves and kind eyes. The horses she conjured in her dreams would always be at the ready to spirit her away from any sadness.
At eighteen and graduated from High School, T.K. would journey through life wearing many hats, high-heels, and boots until finding her way home: ballroom dance instructor, US Air Force Air Traffic Controller (followed by a stint with the FAA), co-owner of a tree company, returning college student, Realtor, free-lance journalist, and finally, full-time novelist. Now, the circle complete, she once again focuses on the two things (er, three things) she loves: horses, books, and her husband and family.
T.K.’s life experiences and world travels fuel the native Texan’s ever-expanding imagination, which she pours into everything she writes. Combining history with fiction, fact with fantasy, she delivers stories that, at some point along the narrative, always have horses making their presence known.
Her first book, Orphan Moon, published in 2015, immediately climbed the charts and became an Amazon.com Kindle international best seller in several countries and on a variety of categorical lists, from U. S. Historical Fiction to Western Romance. Soon after its publication, Orphan Moon was chosen as a top-five-finalist in the 2015 Writers’ League of Texas Manuscript Contest, placing in the Historical Fiction category.
An active member of the Historical Novel Society, Writers’ League of Texas, and Romance Writers of America, the author continues to hone her craft by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars. In conjunction, she works closely and tirelessly with editors to make sure that what she brings to the reader is a quality product.
T.K. and her husband live in north-central Texas on a small ranch that they share with a variety of four-legged friends: equine, canine, feline, and bovine. Their three grown children are scattered across the globe. When not on horseback, T.K. enjoys international travel, snow skiing, photography, and collecting antique deviled egg plates. (The egg plates are a long story—please email her for that explanation. She’ll be delighted to share it with you, along with some favorite deviled egg recipes!)
For more information and to stay abreast with T.K. Lukas and her current projects, please visit http://www.tklukas.com or like her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/T.K.Lukas.Au...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 3, 2015
I found this book difficult to put down. The story of Barleigh, high spirited and determined, brave and generous, is packed with adventure, suspense, sadness and romance. Barleigh is tough, but has her vulnerable side too, especially when she learns about her past. She keeps a journal, the only place she feels able to disclose her true feelings. Her family mean a great deal to her, and the thought of them drives her on through great hardship.
Hughes Levesque, a Texas Ranger, makes a promise to Leighselle, an old and dearly loved friend. Hughes is brave and resourceful but battling his own demons. The son of a wealthy plantation owner from New Orleans, he's turned his back on his privileged background and chosen another way of life. Failure is not an option for Hughes and he's determined to succeed.
The story is set in 1860, with flashbacks throughout the previous thirty years and reminds us that there is so much fascinating history during this period. At the Menger Hotel in San Antonio guests are told they may hear the footsteps of ghostly soldiers killed at the Battle of the Alamo and along with President Lincoln's victory there are hints of the Civil War to come. Slavery was an integral part of society at this time and the description of a slave pen and slave auction is vividly written, with the despair of the slaves skilfully conveyed. There is mention of the new movement of Abolitionists when Barleigh rides into Dallas, with the sense that these are changing times.
The Pony Express Riders have an important role to play. Mail must be delivered, especially news of Abraham Lincoln's election victory to California, in spite of ever present dangers, both from Indians, and the new emerging movement of Separatists.
I loved the descriptions of the trials for the new riders at the Pony Express. Much detail is given of the various Swing Stations and the work undertaken, including the rider's treacherous journeys, some undertaken in heavy snowstorms.
Life for many at this time was hard and many characters have stories to tell. Mario, the Station Master at Salt Lake House tells Barleigh he knows where Hell is as he's been there as a ten year old orphan immigrant, alone and frightened in New York.
Times may be hard, but there is still humour to be found. The rules of Stagecoach Etiquette, the pie eating competition, the visit to Miss Maeve's establishment in salt Lake City and Stoney and his Sombrero are a few examples.
There is tragedy and great sadness here but the book ends on an optimistic note. The characters have endured a journey of great hardship without ever giving in to despair. The book finishes on New year's Eve. This is apt as one adventure comes to a close and a new one beckons.
An outstanding book and beautifully written.
Hughes Levesque, a Texas Ranger, makes a promise to Leighselle, an old and dearly loved friend. Hughes is brave and resourceful but battling his own demons. The son of a wealthy plantation owner from New Orleans, he's turned his back on his privileged background and chosen another way of life. Failure is not an option for Hughes and he's determined to succeed.
The story is set in 1860, with flashbacks throughout the previous thirty years and reminds us that there is so much fascinating history during this period. At the Menger Hotel in San Antonio guests are told they may hear the footsteps of ghostly soldiers killed at the Battle of the Alamo and along with President Lincoln's victory there are hints of the Civil War to come. Slavery was an integral part of society at this time and the description of a slave pen and slave auction is vividly written, with the despair of the slaves skilfully conveyed. There is mention of the new movement of Abolitionists when Barleigh rides into Dallas, with the sense that these are changing times.
The Pony Express Riders have an important role to play. Mail must be delivered, especially news of Abraham Lincoln's election victory to California, in spite of ever present dangers, both from Indians, and the new emerging movement of Separatists.
I loved the descriptions of the trials for the new riders at the Pony Express. Much detail is given of the various Swing Stations and the work undertaken, including the rider's treacherous journeys, some undertaken in heavy snowstorms.
Life for many at this time was hard and many characters have stories to tell. Mario, the Station Master at Salt Lake House tells Barleigh he knows where Hell is as he's been there as a ten year old orphan immigrant, alone and frightened in New York.
Times may be hard, but there is still humour to be found. The rules of Stagecoach Etiquette, the pie eating competition, the visit to Miss Maeve's establishment in salt Lake City and Stoney and his Sombrero are a few examples.
There is tragedy and great sadness here but the book ends on an optimistic note. The characters have endured a journey of great hardship without ever giving in to despair. The book finishes on New year's Eve. This is apt as one adventure comes to a close and a new one beckons.
An outstanding book and beautifully written.
October 17, 2019
I'm giving Orphan Moon a 2 rather than a 1 only because I finished it rather than throwing it against the wall. The book's overall rating is 4.25, so most people apparently disagree with me. Nineteen year old Barleigh is hiding out in the cellar while what family she has is killed by a wild band of Indians or outlaws. Her father and uncle have been killed leaving her with her aunt who was in the cellar with her. She finds from the attorney that she has been left the ranch, however there are significant back taxes due, and if not payed, she will lose it. As she departs the law office, miracle of all miracles, a notice blows up against her offering $25 per week for pony express riders. Seeking young men. Preferably orphans. Of course small and thin. A spark went off in her head!
She cuts her hair off, throws on some chaps, wraps her lovely breasts (tightly) and practices lowering her voice. That's only the beginning. She shortens her name, Barleigh, to Bar, learns to readjust her package, scratch her crotch and to spit. Voilà, instant cowboy. She makes the trip from her small town ranch in Texas to the home office of The Pony Express in St. Joseph, Mo. where she is put through a grueling test of riding and shooting (bullseye) and wins in a trial over 6 young men. Actually ties with one who becomes her partner. (amazing:>) She is now a Pony Express rider and on her way to saving her ranch.
She has a partner. Now how does a woman hide her soft hands, smooth face, never needing to shave, squatting to pee, monthly bleeding, carrying Kotex in her saddlebag. Much as T.K. Lukas tries to make this a fairly believable novel, really???
Well she meets the man of her dreams, a Texas Ranger, who isn't fooled and is incidentally searching for her at the behest of her long lost mother. Hughes Levesque just happens to be rich, unattached and stunningly handsome. I don't need to tell the rest because it's so formulaic.
My ex-husband read nothing but Louis L'Amour novels. That's why we're divorced. I have never read one, but imagine a few similarities.
She cuts her hair off, throws on some chaps, wraps her lovely breasts (tightly) and practices lowering her voice. That's only the beginning. She shortens her name, Barleigh, to Bar, learns to readjust her package, scratch her crotch and to spit. Voilà, instant cowboy. She makes the trip from her small town ranch in Texas to the home office of The Pony Express in St. Joseph, Mo. where she is put through a grueling test of riding and shooting (bullseye) and wins in a trial over 6 young men. Actually ties with one who becomes her partner. (amazing:>) She is now a Pony Express rider and on her way to saving her ranch.
She has a partner. Now how does a woman hide her soft hands, smooth face, never needing to shave, squatting to pee, monthly bleeding, carrying Kotex in her saddlebag. Much as T.K. Lukas tries to make this a fairly believable novel, really???
Well she meets the man of her dreams, a Texas Ranger, who isn't fooled and is incidentally searching for her at the behest of her long lost mother. Hughes Levesque just happens to be rich, unattached and stunningly handsome. I don't need to tell the rest because it's so formulaic.
My ex-husband read nothing but Louis L'Amour novels. That's why we're divorced. I have never read one, but imagine a few similarities.
August 9, 2015
I was given a copy of 'Orphan Moon' in return for an honest review. Wow, this is a great read. Take a step back into the 1860s, the pony express is burning trails across the mid west. It was like reliving some old western movie. Gunslingers, cowboys and Indians. But the real glue to the novel is the plot. Barleigh Flanders' father and step mother perish in an Indian attack on their homestead. A tax debt hangs over the ranch and time is fast running out to save the property.
Orphan Moon traces Barleigh's attempt to earn the required $406 before the January deadline. Her only option is to pose as a boy and sign up as pony express rider, an extremely dangerous occupation. The tragic circumstances of Barleigh's past and the mother she thought was dead plus the Texas Ranger who is charged with finding Barleigh for her terminally ill mother are expertly revealed to the reader.
When a novel evokes the reader's emotions like Orphan Moon does you know the author has struck the jackpot. My advice. Grab your copy today.
Orphan Moon traces Barleigh's attempt to earn the required $406 before the January deadline. Her only option is to pose as a boy and sign up as pony express rider, an extremely dangerous occupation. The tragic circumstances of Barleigh's past and the mother she thought was dead plus the Texas Ranger who is charged with finding Barleigh for her terminally ill mother are expertly revealed to the reader.
When a novel evokes the reader's emotions like Orphan Moon does you know the author has struck the jackpot. My advice. Grab your copy today.
June 9, 2015
Orphan Moon is a novel by T.K. Lucas. It is a historical fiction which takes place in 1860 near the Brazos River. The book is really good and although fiction give us a glimpse into life in the 1800’s. The characters are realistic and the plot is really good. I simply loved the book. The action and adventure are well written and you feel like you are there with them.
Barleigh Flanders was 19 when the Indian attack near the Brazos River took her father, Birdie, and Uncle Jack. She, Aunt Winnie, and her half-sister survived by hiding in the root cellar. There in the cellar with them were the books she had been journaling in since she was 12. Aunt Winnie was a midwife who had been there for the birth of the baby, Starling Henrietta. Now, Barleigh has very little left and goes with Aunt Winnie to her home. Barleigh knows she must find out how much money they have in the bank to keep the ranch running. She finds her Father’s land has back taxes due and the next year as well. It comes to a total of $257. The banker said he would pay the taxes if she would marry him. Barleigh didn’t feel she had sunk that low. As she leaves, she picks up a flyer concerning the Pony Express. They were hiring and wanted orphans especially. Here was a way to save the land. Barleigh left Starling in Aunt Wnnie’s care and headed for St. Joe to join the Pony Express as Bar Flanders. She wears Winnie’s son’s clothes and cuts her hair so she could pass as a boy. Can she fool everyone?
Hughes Levesique is headed for San Antonio on foot after his horse died. What a way to start his day. Could it get worse? Yes, he was captured by Quanah Parker and his tribe. Hughes made a wager with Quanah. The two of them would fight and if he lost, Quanah could kill him. If he won, he would go free. This time it worked in Hughes favor. He won. He meets up with an old friend, Leighselle Beauclaire, in Fort Worth. She has come to ask a favor of him. She has someone she wants him to find. Will he be able to help her?
When Baleigh’s and Hughes’ paths cross, their adventures really begin. Can Baleigh keep her identity a secret or will Hughes figure it out? Will Baleigh be able to pay the taxes and get Starling back?
I wish this book hadn't ended but plan to read books two and three when they come out.
Barleigh Flanders was 19 when the Indian attack near the Brazos River took her father, Birdie, and Uncle Jack. She, Aunt Winnie, and her half-sister survived by hiding in the root cellar. There in the cellar with them were the books she had been journaling in since she was 12. Aunt Winnie was a midwife who had been there for the birth of the baby, Starling Henrietta. Now, Barleigh has very little left and goes with Aunt Winnie to her home. Barleigh knows she must find out how much money they have in the bank to keep the ranch running. She finds her Father’s land has back taxes due and the next year as well. It comes to a total of $257. The banker said he would pay the taxes if she would marry him. Barleigh didn’t feel she had sunk that low. As she leaves, she picks up a flyer concerning the Pony Express. They were hiring and wanted orphans especially. Here was a way to save the land. Barleigh left Starling in Aunt Wnnie’s care and headed for St. Joe to join the Pony Express as Bar Flanders. She wears Winnie’s son’s clothes and cuts her hair so she could pass as a boy. Can she fool everyone?
Hughes Levesique is headed for San Antonio on foot after his horse died. What a way to start his day. Could it get worse? Yes, he was captured by Quanah Parker and his tribe. Hughes made a wager with Quanah. The two of them would fight and if he lost, Quanah could kill him. If he won, he would go free. This time it worked in Hughes favor. He won. He meets up with an old friend, Leighselle Beauclaire, in Fort Worth. She has come to ask a favor of him. She has someone she wants him to find. Will he be able to help her?
When Baleigh’s and Hughes’ paths cross, their adventures really begin. Can Baleigh keep her identity a secret or will Hughes figure it out? Will Baleigh be able to pay the taxes and get Starling back?
I wish this book hadn't ended but plan to read books two and three when they come out.
November 12, 2015
Set in 1860 this is a story of a courageous girl (Barleigh) losing everything and growing into a woman while scraping her life back together.
With easy to follow flashbacks we learn about Leighselle and how she weaves into the story via Hughes, a Texas Ranger, and a dear friend of Leighselle. Hughes is a tough character, capable of many things but loaded with his own problems, too. Barleigh is/and becomes intrinsically linked to them both. With her fierce grittiness she’s a character that quickly gets under your skin.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, the easy mix of determined personalities and fascinating
historical details of western life in the 1830s-1860s was captivating. Lukas knows about horses and the Pony Express, which I thoroughly enjoyed learning about through the dramas of characters that were so real; with a back drop so finely painted – I felt I was there. She also knows the minds of young woman and how people have to make difficult choices.
I quickly came to care about the characters, some enduring great hardship. This is a great story; Lukas has an easy writing style that’s pleasant and easy to become immersed within.
Whether you like western or cowboy stories or not, if you enjoy a good yarn with strong characters, you will love this book.
With easy to follow flashbacks we learn about Leighselle and how she weaves into the story via Hughes, a Texas Ranger, and a dear friend of Leighselle. Hughes is a tough character, capable of many things but loaded with his own problems, too. Barleigh is/and becomes intrinsically linked to them both. With her fierce grittiness she’s a character that quickly gets under your skin.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, the easy mix of determined personalities and fascinating
historical details of western life in the 1830s-1860s was captivating. Lukas knows about horses and the Pony Express, which I thoroughly enjoyed learning about through the dramas of characters that were so real; with a back drop so finely painted – I felt I was there. She also knows the minds of young woman and how people have to make difficult choices.
I quickly came to care about the characters, some enduring great hardship. This is a great story; Lukas has an easy writing style that’s pleasant and easy to become immersed within.
Whether you like western or cowboy stories or not, if you enjoy a good yarn with strong characters, you will love this book.
July 23, 2015
I have to say that I’m not much for reading about Westerns (watching them, heck yeah!), however Orphan Moon has me rethinking that. The young heroine Barleigh (Bar) Flanders faces a harrowing life event, and rather than take what’s being offered by an unscrupulous banker she seizes her own fate, and impossibly joins the Pony Express. We also follow a Texas Ranger Hughes Levesque (aka Wolf Eyes) on his own mission complete and motivation. Overall I think the realism offered in the landscapes and the characters lives bring this story to life. I imagine Ms. Lukas did a tremendous amount of research because the story world feels as real as any I’ve encountered.
One of the strengths of this story is that the heroine has a clear goal, obstacle, and stakes. I like the fact that we’re dealing with a writer who understands structure and instead of just relying on narration for a few hundred pages gives us action and dialogue that transports us to her world, and then through it with clear description and engaging action. Sometimes a little too effectively. Like in the case of the treatment of black slaves of the time that actually made me squirm a little. Granted it’s better than simply white washing history, and the realism added to the story, but boy the dialogue can get a bit grim. Still though I don’t count realism as a negative, and Ms. Lukas’s voice certainly feels real. It does a great job of manipulating the reader’s emotions and transporting us to a time long gone, but thanks to Orphan Moon, not forgotten.
One of the strengths of this story is that the heroine has a clear goal, obstacle, and stakes. I like the fact that we’re dealing with a writer who understands structure and instead of just relying on narration for a few hundred pages gives us action and dialogue that transports us to her world, and then through it with clear description and engaging action. Sometimes a little too effectively. Like in the case of the treatment of black slaves of the time that actually made me squirm a little. Granted it’s better than simply white washing history, and the realism added to the story, but boy the dialogue can get a bit grim. Still though I don’t count realism as a negative, and Ms. Lukas’s voice certainly feels real. It does a great job of manipulating the reader’s emotions and transporting us to a time long gone, but thanks to Orphan Moon, not forgotten.
October 23, 2019
Oh my goodness. I sooooo should have read more reviews and looked at the gender of the reviewers.
Well, in my naïveté I was thinking it would be a clean read like my dad's Westerns. Wrong! Within the first few chapters the Ranger talked about his favorite whore, there's all kinds of language, and a rape scene where the F word is thrown in two or three times by the rapist. At that point I put the book aside and nearly had to compose myself. I went to Amazon to read some reviews by men who loved it and women who felt there was too much sex and language. Sorry I didn't read those before I invested the money.
Well, in my naïveté I was thinking it would be a clean read like my dad's Westerns. Wrong! Within the first few chapters the Ranger talked about his favorite whore, there's all kinds of language, and a rape scene where the F word is thrown in two or three times by the rapist. At that point I put the book aside and nearly had to compose myself. I went to Amazon to read some reviews by men who loved it and women who felt there was too much sex and language. Sorry I didn't read those before I invested the money.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2016
This was a most satisfactory read in every respect. I love historical fiction, and if there's romance in it, so much the better. This is a literary romance set in a most unusual time and place -- the fringe of the US western frontier from 1830s-60s. Texas, Missouri, New Orleans, and Utah, to be specific. There is a still teenaged girl, Barleigh, who endures tragedy and faces ruin. To solve her problems, she assumes a daring role, and along the way encounters the Pony Express (many wonderful details of how this organization operated). And, of course she encounters a Texas Ranger who appears to be stalking her. The story of this plucky girl on a serious mission, the description of the country, the wonderful secondary characters -- all lend themselves to a wonderful read. What's equally important to me when following new authors is, can she write? Sadly, oftentimes, the author has a good story, but the writing is -- well -- not readable. Not so in this case! The writing is lovely and that of a well seasoned writer. Thumbs up to T.K. Lucas, and a hearty recommendation to a very well done book. You will enjoy this from start to finish. AND, there are to be two sequels!
About the author:
http://ginamc.blogspot.com/2015/04/tk...
About the author:
http://ginamc.blogspot.com/2015/04/tk...
October 15, 2015
Great Story Well Told
I am not particularly knowledgeable about this era of American history or indeed about horses but I need not have worried! The author is extremely well versed in both. If you like adventure, romance and an exciting story against the backdrop of a time of great change, then you will love this tale. The characters are well developed with great back stories (a must for me!). The story moves along at a good pace, neither too slow or too fast.
My only concern was the number of soakings the poor heroine had to endure – how she didn’t get pneumonia during her adventures I’m not quite sure, but she is a plucky lady with the determination of a true frontier character. Hints of sequels in the air and I for one will be buying them … more please!
I am not particularly knowledgeable about this era of American history or indeed about horses but I need not have worried! The author is extremely well versed in both. If you like adventure, romance and an exciting story against the backdrop of a time of great change, then you will love this tale. The characters are well developed with great back stories (a must for me!). The story moves along at a good pace, neither too slow or too fast.
My only concern was the number of soakings the poor heroine had to endure – how she didn’t get pneumonia during her adventures I’m not quite sure, but she is a plucky lady with the determination of a true frontier character. Hints of sequels in the air and I for one will be buying them … more please!
April 16, 2015
Wonderful read!!
I may be partial? Being that I am a direct descendant of a Texas ranger and a Comanche woman. But I read a lot and you made me cry, which is rather difficult to do. I am a very happy reader. Thank you and please keep writing. Ginny
I may be partial? Being that I am a direct descendant of a Texas ranger and a Comanche woman. But I read a lot and you made me cry, which is rather difficult to do. I am a very happy reader. Thank you and please keep writing. Ginny
February 26, 2018
Historical adventure/love story. Young woman’s parents killed in an Indian raid in the 1800s. Nasty banker threatens to foreclose on the ranch she inherits from her father. Young woman, Barleigh, disguises herself as a boy and gets a job as a Pony Express rider to earn money to save her ranch. This story gives a good insight into the bravery of these young riders and the perils they endured to get the mail through. The characters are believable and sharply defined. The flashbacks and parallel stories are well done and blend seamlessly. Story moves at a good pace and kept me turning the pages. Very good read
September 28, 2017
Excellent
What a great story! I read it through non stop! A tough life that a tough girl overcame. It inspired and encouraged , lessons from long past generation to today. Loved it!
What a great story! I read it through non stop! A tough life that a tough girl overcame. It inspired and encouraged , lessons from long past generation to today. Loved it!
September 3, 2015
Orphan Moon was a story I had trouble putting down. Both Barleigh and Leighselle are bright and strong characters that earn respect as this story progresses. Hughes is easily likeable immediately not just for his high standards but also for his stand to protect those around him. This story is a wild adventure from the beginning to the end. Though the events as they unfold, both the memories, and what is happening present day in the story, break your heart, there is this strength of character that comes out and you watch Barleigh shine as she makes hard choices and ultimately finds love. I really enjoyed reading Orphan Moon from start to finish.
The story begins with Barleigh losing pretty much everything that she's ever known. She takes off on an adventure to gain the money to rebuild her life for the sake of her and her baby sister. To do this she has to learn to be someone she is not. But she is up to the task and pulls it off beautifully.
Then there is Hughes... He is a rough and tumble Texas Ranger that has a friend he owes his life to. This friend, Leighselle, asks him for a favor which takes him on his own adventure.
In Saint Joseph Barleigh and Hughes meet.
This story is almost like three stories that intersect then finally join together around the middle of the book. I like that you really get to know Hughes and Barleigh separate first before their lives become intermingled. You can see that it is going to happen, but there really is two stories (three is pared down to two) going on until that point.
Orphan Moon is a great read that I would recommend to anyone who likes westerns, adventures, or romance (though I would say it is more adventure than romance for much of the story).
The story begins with Barleigh losing pretty much everything that she's ever known. She takes off on an adventure to gain the money to rebuild her life for the sake of her and her baby sister. To do this she has to learn to be someone she is not. But she is up to the task and pulls it off beautifully.
Then there is Hughes... He is a rough and tumble Texas Ranger that has a friend he owes his life to. This friend, Leighselle, asks him for a favor which takes him on his own adventure.
In Saint Joseph Barleigh and Hughes meet.
This story is almost like three stories that intersect then finally join together around the middle of the book. I like that you really get to know Hughes and Barleigh separate first before their lives become intermingled. You can see that it is going to happen, but there really is two stories (three is pared down to two) going on until that point.
Orphan Moon is a great read that I would recommend to anyone who likes westerns, adventures, or romance (though I would say it is more adventure than romance for much of the story).
February 28, 2018
I enjoyed reading Orphan Moon! It was a good historical romance. I learned a lot about the short history of the Pony Express.
March 6, 2016
**I received a copy of this book for free in return for an honest review**
I enjoyed the way T. K. Lucas wrote this book. When in action, her sentences were short and choppy, accentuating the stress and thoughts of her characters to enable the reader to experience those same emotions. Her use of vocabulary and the way she described people and places was very well done, and I had a clear picture of everything right from the beginning.
There is a trigger warning that should accompany this book, as it does contain some graphic scenes that could be upsetting for some people. There is a lot of jumping scenes, from the future to the past, that makes you have to pay close attention to make sure you are following closely and getting the whole picture.
There were very minor mistakes throughout the novel, but then, I don't think I've ever seen a book with absolutely perfect grammar and spelling, even paperbacks that have been under the eyes of multiple editors, so this is not a huge fault at all against the author.
Overall, it was a very nice read. It started out with a bang, and the reader comes to feel for her characters. I would highly recommend this to anyone who not only loves Westerns, but those who crave to read about adventure.
I enjoyed the way T. K. Lucas wrote this book. When in action, her sentences were short and choppy, accentuating the stress and thoughts of her characters to enable the reader to experience those same emotions. Her use of vocabulary and the way she described people and places was very well done, and I had a clear picture of everything right from the beginning.
There is a trigger warning that should accompany this book, as it does contain some graphic scenes that could be upsetting for some people. There is a lot of jumping scenes, from the future to the past, that makes you have to pay close attention to make sure you are following closely and getting the whole picture.
There were very minor mistakes throughout the novel, but then, I don't think I've ever seen a book with absolutely perfect grammar and spelling, even paperbacks that have been under the eyes of multiple editors, so this is not a huge fault at all against the author.
Overall, it was a very nice read. It started out with a bang, and the reader comes to feel for her characters. I would highly recommend this to anyone who not only loves Westerns, but those who crave to read about adventure.
January 29, 2016
It's no surprise this book gained acclamation in several book awards. Orphan Moon is a gritty, tell-it-like-it-is, in your face, tale about a courageous young woman who fights to regain her life after a terrible massacre. As I read along, this novel had me cheering, crying, and white knuckling my kindle. Barleigh Flanders looses everything after her family is massacred. Determined to fight for her money so she can rebuild her life and take care of her young sister, she sets out on an incredible journey for a young woman to make alone. Along the way, she works for the famous Pony Express and is befriended by the rugged and strong Hughes Levesque. The book flows with themes of romance, dark family secrets, past family conflicts, hope and dreams, and the primal instinct of survival! Orphan Moon is Book 1 of a trilogy. There are three stories within that intertwine, making this a rich and satisfying read. Definitely one of my favorites and not a surprise it received notice in several awards for historical and western fiction! Thank you to the author and publisher. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2015
A thrill ride from go.
I am an admirer of facts and a lover of history. When an author can bring me back in time and not only deliver the scenes and the senses of a time period but also deliver facts, interesting and funny, then I become an instant fan.
Ms. Lukas has a skill that I admire, her writing never bores and the story has a quick and detailed flow. I love Barleigh, she has grit and wit. She reminds me of myself a bit when I was younger with tons more brashness and daring :-)
This is an adventure that takes you into the wild west alongside a young lady with a big heart and great courage.
I often wonder when passing through farm land or visiting modern cities; what did it look like to the native Americans? How was this land before the ax, before roads and industry. Orphan moon takes you there. To the virgin woods and wild streams, to fresh air and outdoor living. To had work and danger around every turn.
Fantastic book, I will be recommending this one!
I am an admirer of facts and a lover of history. When an author can bring me back in time and not only deliver the scenes and the senses of a time period but also deliver facts, interesting and funny, then I become an instant fan.
Ms. Lukas has a skill that I admire, her writing never bores and the story has a quick and detailed flow. I love Barleigh, she has grit and wit. She reminds me of myself a bit when I was younger with tons more brashness and daring :-)
This is an adventure that takes you into the wild west alongside a young lady with a big heart and great courage.
I often wonder when passing through farm land or visiting modern cities; what did it look like to the native Americans? How was this land before the ax, before roads and industry. Orphan moon takes you there. To the virgin woods and wild streams, to fresh air and outdoor living. To had work and danger around every turn.
Fantastic book, I will be recommending this one!
Read
September 27, 2016Orphan Moon is a beautifully written historic romantic adventure, combining multiple surprises and suspense. The author, T. K. Lucas, writes with gusto, I fell in love with all her characters. I longed for the hero and heroine to connect. The suspense as to when and how kept me turning the pages. The heroine, a naïve young woman, loses her home, her land and more, for lack of tax money. Her desire to regain the homestead, gives her the impetus to change her identity in order to take a position, for males only, as a highly paid Pony Express driver. The money she earns is expected to be enough to pay the back taxes. The hero, a Texas Ranger, asked by his good friend to find her daughter that had been taken away from her at birth, eighteen years ago, complies with her wishes. Be sure to read this book. Clearly, the author has done her nineteenth-century research well, the Wild West, the rumblings of the Civil War, train and stagecoach travel and slavery. This book is a winner.
September 17, 2015
Orphan Moon is an exciting story of the Wild West, uniquely told from the heroine’s perspective. The author has done her home work in terms of the very descriptive characterizations of both the settings and the characters.
Young Barleigh Flanders faces a terrifying future following the death of her father and stepmother at the hands of marauding Indians. A crooked banker tries to take advantage of her naiveté but she boldly joins the Pony Express to help provide for herself and her sisters. Along the way, she crosses paths with Texas Ranger Hughes Levesque who is on a mission of his own.
Younger readers and those with squeamish stomachs might want to consider that the book contains some vivid descriptions of violence.
However, in general, If you like western action and romance, this is a great read.
Young Barleigh Flanders faces a terrifying future following the death of her father and stepmother at the hands of marauding Indians. A crooked banker tries to take advantage of her naiveté but she boldly joins the Pony Express to help provide for herself and her sisters. Along the way, she crosses paths with Texas Ranger Hughes Levesque who is on a mission of his own.
Younger readers and those with squeamish stomachs might want to consider that the book contains some vivid descriptions of violence.
However, in general, If you like western action and romance, this is a great read.
September 21, 2015
I received Orphan Moon for free through Goodreads First Reads.
Western isn't my usual genre, but Orphan Moon caught my interest because I've always been intrigued by historical stories of women disguising themselves as men in order to work or fight in eras when they had few options or rights. I'm glad I won it because it was a fun and wonderful story -- emotional and fast-paced with complex characters, well-researched history, and humor woven in with tragedy. It took me a while to get started reading because life got in the way, but once I was able to sit down with it, I finished the book in two nights.
Western isn't my usual genre, but Orphan Moon caught my interest because I've always been intrigued by historical stories of women disguising themselves as men in order to work or fight in eras when they had few options or rights. I'm glad I won it because it was a fun and wonderful story -- emotional and fast-paced with complex characters, well-researched history, and humor woven in with tragedy. It took me a while to get started reading because life got in the way, but once I was able to sit down with it, I finished the book in two nights.
August 17, 2015
I won this book on Goodreads, and while I mostly enjoyed this book, I think I'm giving it a 3- rating, based on the language and the graphic portrayal of a rape scene, and other brutality. Accurate or not, it's too much. Granted, the main character is acting as a 18 year old boy who becomes a Pony Express Rider, and language and sexuality were likely part of that, but I didn't enjoy that part of the book at all. Too much sex, both blatant and implied, for me.
Parts I did like: The developing relationship of the two main characters, as well as the resolution for the mother, details about the experiences of a Pony Express Rider...
Parts I did like: The developing relationship of the two main characters, as well as the resolution for the mother, details about the experiences of a Pony Express Rider...
June 22, 2016
Historical fiction set in America 1860 – I found the historical aspect of this novel interesting as I know little to nothing about American history.
The style of writing was good, well written prose. I did have trouble believing that a young woman, 19 years old, could carry off masquerading as a young boy for as long as she did. Descriptions of the hardships endured, relationships made and tragedies make up this particular novel and kept me reading to the end.
The style of writing was good, well written prose. I did have trouble believing that a young woman, 19 years old, could carry off masquerading as a young boy for as long as she did. Descriptions of the hardships endured, relationships made and tragedies make up this particular novel and kept me reading to the end.
June 21, 2017
It's a while since I picked up a western and this was a great welcome back to the genre. It's a captivating, well-written historical western adventure, with a healthy dose of tasteful romance. This intiguing story has plenty of action in a well-paced, beautifully descriptive style which kept me turning the pages. I really liked the characters, especially the plucky Barleigh and the protective Hughes, the tough but tender ranger who is tasked to find her. A very satisfying read.
April 29, 2016
I loved this story. A new twist on a love story and a history lesson as well. It was interesting learning about the pony express. While the deception of the main character isn't a new concept, the interaction between the main character's and their story is a new and exciting twist. I am anxiously awaiting book two's release, to see how the story plays out. This book is a must read.
April 24, 2017
One of the best books I've read for a while. I prefer not to know what is going to happen in the book within the first chapter. This book has many twists and turns. It is well researched and interesting.
June 24, 2015
Orphan Moon was such an exhilarating novel. I was unable to put it down! Now I am anxiously awaiting the sequel to be published.
Want to read
July 17, 2015Free 07-15-15 (Historic Fiction)
http://www.amazon.com/Orphan-Moon-The...
http://www.amazon.com/Orphan-Moon-The...
June 6, 2018
Outstanding!
This book was quite different from what I usually read. It is very well written and the characters have a life of their own. This book is mostly about Barleigh’s life as Bar, orphan and Pony Express rider. But it also tells the tale of the mother Barleigh had been told died giving birth to her. And also the story of Hughes and his relationship with Barleigh’s mother, his search for Barleigh, and finding love as well as his friend’s daughter.
The Wild West was a place that has as much fiction told about as it had the facts that made it Wild. It was a tough place, many didn’t survive. If it wasn’t illness or childbirth or ranching accidents, it was outlaws and Indians. The Indians of the Great Plains could be truly savage. No mercy shown. The outlaws weren’t much better, at least they let you keep your scalp.
Stories of the Pony Express abound. This author obviously did her homework and presented a very likely scenario of life as a Pony Express rider. It was very interesting and had me checking maps and Googling names, places and events. I may even have to study some of her source books, my interest in that part of history has awakened!
This book was quite different from what I usually read. It is very well written and the characters have a life of their own. This book is mostly about Barleigh’s life as Bar, orphan and Pony Express rider. But it also tells the tale of the mother Barleigh had been told died giving birth to her. And also the story of Hughes and his relationship with Barleigh’s mother, his search for Barleigh, and finding love as well as his friend’s daughter.
The Wild West was a place that has as much fiction told about as it had the facts that made it Wild. It was a tough place, many didn’t survive. If it wasn’t illness or childbirth or ranching accidents, it was outlaws and Indians. The Indians of the Great Plains could be truly savage. No mercy shown. The outlaws weren’t much better, at least they let you keep your scalp.
Stories of the Pony Express abound. This author obviously did her homework and presented a very likely scenario of life as a Pony Express rider. It was very interesting and had me checking maps and Googling names, places and events. I may even have to study some of her source books, my interest in that part of history has awakened!
March 9, 2018
Captivating story.
I did enjoy reading this book.
Bar had more courage then a whole stable of grown men.
Burt i do believe that some of the storyline was cut short in places.
I did enjoy reading this book.
Bar had more courage then a whole stable of grown men.
Burt i do believe that some of the storyline was cut short in places.
May 27, 2018
Pony express explained
I enjoyed this book immensely and could not put it down. The research done by the author is evident and adds to the richness of the story..
I enjoyed this book immensely and could not put it down. The research done by the author is evident and adds to the richness of the story..
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