Julie's Joy

Rugged Cross Ranch #1

by Jill Dewhurst

Finding Joy . . . Julie Peterson had been born into a family of faith and privilege, but when her dad decides to move his family West to homestead near his sister's ranch in northeastern Oklahoma, disaster strikes, leaving Julie a nine-year-old orphan. Rescued and cared for by a migrating Indian village until her uncle found her years later, Julie has learned to trust God even when life does not match her expectations. Meet her now as a young woman, returning home to the Rugged Cross Ranch. Though she has faced many hardships in her young life, Julie spreads joy to all around her.

Buck Matthews, the second-oldest brother on the ranch, has given up dreams of a family, knowing no woman would be willing to accept his heritage. When Julie arrives on the ranch, their growing friendship reveals they have more in common than he realized. Would Julie be willing to accept his love?

When the biggest tragedy of all strikes, will Julie's joy be extinguished forever? Follow God's sovereign hand through this story of faith, family, and redeeming love. Be inspired to trust the One who loves us all unconditionally.

254 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 12, 2017

About the author

A Selah Award Bronze Medalist, Christian Author Award Winner, Will Rogers Medallion Award Winner, and bestselling author of historical Christian fiction, Jill's writing engages the heart of her readers and leaves them empowered to fulfill God's plan for their lives. Jill's novels seamlessly weave a page-turning story with the truth of God's unconditional love.

With her varied experience as an RN, a musician, and a homeschool mom, Jill creatively weaves a part of herself into each story. What sets her books apart is the way the characters point the reader to the truth of God's love.

When she can find some free time, she enjoys playing her flute, piano, and cello and thanking God for the hubby who lassoed her heart for keeps. She and her family love their church in Florida and serve in the music and children's ministries there.

Jill has had a secret wish for many years to write a story that would inspire readers by reminding them of a God who loves them unconditionally and longs to have a personal relationship with them. Publishing her Rugged Cross Ranch novels has been a dream come true.

Reviews

[Lampard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Joy is a heartfelt tale of resilience, faith, and love in the face of deep loss and unexpected trials. Julie’s journey from tragedy to triumph is both inspiring and uplifting, as she brings light and hope to those around her. Her bond with Buck Matthews is tender and meaningful, reminding readers that love often blooms in the most unlikely places. With themes of redemption, trust in God, and the strength of the human spirit, this story is a beautiful reminder that joy can be found even after the darkest of storms.

[D'anah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good

This is an amazing story of things going "wrong", being redeemed; of highs and lows with unexpected outcomes. An engrossing tale with gains and losses strewn within it. Realistic characters that draw you into the story. An inspiring faith walk tale. Very well done.

[Jeannette Harbottle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story!

Have the tissues ready! This is an amazing story of unconditional love, wrapped in grief and joy. The thread of God's foreknowledge and provision make this extra special.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

joy through the trials

I so enjoyed this story! Yes, Julie had joy no matter what because her strength comes from the Lord. Very well done!