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Catching Currents: A Frontier Historic Colorado Story
The last place Sally wants to spend the next year is at a Boston finishing school, shackled with even more rules than high society has already imposed on her. However, little does she realize that her life is about to take a dramatic turn—toward the rollicking West, where far fewer restrictions hold sway.
After she meets rowdy Caroline from the Colorado frontier, not only is an adventurous, exciting world revealed, but an unpredictable one as well. For as she watches her lively new friend attract the attention of her stuffy brother Will, Sally becomes smitten with Caroline’s brother, Teddie—a rancher who thinks nothing of disregarding a few social mores.
If only Teddie can now decide what kind of future he wants. Yet as wandering ambitions threaten to thwart their romance, all strive for contentment in a tumultuous turn-of-the-century America.
Based on true events, Catching Currents is engaging historical fiction, set amidst a nation rapidly changing and the small town of Estes Park, just trying to keep up.
After she meets rowdy Caroline from the Colorado frontier, not only is an adventurous, exciting world revealed, but an unpredictable one as well. For as she watches her lively new friend attract the attention of her stuffy brother Will, Sally becomes smitten with Caroline’s brother, Teddie—a rancher who thinks nothing of disregarding a few social mores.
If only Teddie can now decide what kind of future he wants. Yet as wandering ambitions threaten to thwart their romance, all strive for contentment in a tumultuous turn-of-the-century America.
Based on true events, Catching Currents is engaging historical fiction, set amidst a nation rapidly changing and the small town of Estes Park, just trying to keep up.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
September 18, 2020
Sagas come in different forms. This one had its own meandering and scenic route(literally and figuratively). I must say that the author’s note at the end is a must-read because it elevates the content to a different level.
We begin at the late teens of our protagonists. We have multiple main characters to focus on while only getting the primary narration from Teddie and Sally. The former a product of frontier life and the latter, a city girl who calls herself a socialist who wants to go to college. Their paths cross because of Teddie’s sister.
The story sees them well into middle age, and the fascinating parts are those changes that happen around them. The acceptable versus non-acceptable behaviours in a young country is addressed. I liked all the people introduced to us, felt they had enough of individualism to come across as unique characters during the narration, but I thought the story itself was a little slow. The writing is simple, sometimes a little too much so, when it comes to relationships. There is nothing wrong with such a presentation, it just wasn’t something I expected. Given that as the situation, I felt this could be read by a younger audience than I would have assumed given the genre.
We see the transition of people from one form of life to the growth of a whole city. It was a different read, and I think it might interest people who have ever lived in Colorado.
⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 3 out of 5.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience and the time it took for me to read it.
https://superfluousreading.wordpress....
We begin at the late teens of our protagonists. We have multiple main characters to focus on while only getting the primary narration from Teddie and Sally. The former a product of frontier life and the latter, a city girl who calls herself a socialist who wants to go to college. Their paths cross because of Teddie’s sister.
The story sees them well into middle age, and the fascinating parts are those changes that happen around them. The acceptable versus non-acceptable behaviours in a young country is addressed. I liked all the people introduced to us, felt they had enough of individualism to come across as unique characters during the narration, but I thought the story itself was a little slow. The writing is simple, sometimes a little too much so, when it comes to relationships. There is nothing wrong with such a presentation, it just wasn’t something I expected. Given that as the situation, I felt this could be read by a younger audience than I would have assumed given the genre.
We see the transition of people from one form of life to the growth of a whole city. It was a different read, and I think it might interest people who have ever lived in Colorado.
⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 3 out of 5.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience and the time it took for me to read it.
https://superfluousreading.wordpress....
May 6, 2020
Catching Currents is based on the true events in Frontier Historic Colorado. Kari August tells the story engaging her readers through romance, humour and history.
She uses the similarities and contrasts between Colorado and Boston at the turn of the century to show the differences in daily life and future ambitions. Set in the backdrop Estes park a love story helps makes this book flow. We learn how Rocky Mountain National Park was created, the role that Enos Mills played in it, Dunraven architecture, Indian culture, a little about Teddy Roosevelt and so much more.
I particularly liked that she did not pigeon hole the women in this book into subliminal characters. They were feisty, opinionated and flawed.
Make sure to read the epilogue where the author further explains the history and development of Colorado parks. Her note to readers at the end adds a little family perspective on why she chose the topic. I look forward to following this author and reading more of her books.
Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
She uses the similarities and contrasts between Colorado and Boston at the turn of the century to show the differences in daily life and future ambitions. Set in the backdrop Estes park a love story helps makes this book flow. We learn how Rocky Mountain National Park was created, the role that Enos Mills played in it, Dunraven architecture, Indian culture, a little about Teddy Roosevelt and so much more.
I particularly liked that she did not pigeon hole the women in this book into subliminal characters. They were feisty, opinionated and flawed.
Make sure to read the epilogue where the author further explains the history and development of Colorado parks. Her note to readers at the end adds a little family perspective on why she chose the topic. I look forward to following this author and reading more of her books.
Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2020
A quaint book, not the usual genre of book I would read, but seeing that the book was based on true events in historical frontier Colorado I had to read it after being on a long vacation through Colorado a few years ago.
The story starts with Teddie waiting, along side his neighbour “Bear”, for his sister, Caroline, to return home after a year being away at finishing school. Caroline is to return home along with a friend “Sally“.
Both Caroline and Sally are not like the other girls at the finishing school.
Caroline was brought up on a family homestead, Estes Park, Colorado and was sent to a finishing school in Boston after she “slammed her fist fullforce into his belly” after a boy at a local dance had said something “too fresh” in her ear. Sally was brought up in a more traditional home where her parents wanted to see her settle down with a repectable husband and bring up a family. Sally had ideas of college and of finding rewarding work. Caroline arrives home with Sally, Sally’s parents and brother Will. Caroline, Sally, Teddie and Will spend the time having fun “horsing” around. Will there be a double romance?
The story jumps around a bit as you see Ted and Will head off to Alaska to find gold, a short chapter of the book on the tales of their travel.
The story then comes back around to Estes Park Colorado and family life.
Although an enjoyable and easy read with strong characters, I would have preferred to read more about the history of Colorado and its parks - there is a some information of this history at the back of the book – but it is not the main focus of the story.
Although I enjoy historical fiction I’m not one for reading romance. This book is in my opinion an historical romance novel.
The story starts with Teddie waiting, along side his neighbour “Bear”, for his sister, Caroline, to return home after a year being away at finishing school. Caroline is to return home along with a friend “Sally“.
Both Caroline and Sally are not like the other girls at the finishing school.
Caroline was brought up on a family homestead, Estes Park, Colorado and was sent to a finishing school in Boston after she “slammed her fist fullforce into his belly” after a boy at a local dance had said something “too fresh” in her ear. Sally was brought up in a more traditional home where her parents wanted to see her settle down with a repectable husband and bring up a family. Sally had ideas of college and of finding rewarding work. Caroline arrives home with Sally, Sally’s parents and brother Will. Caroline, Sally, Teddie and Will spend the time having fun “horsing” around. Will there be a double romance?
The story jumps around a bit as you see Ted and Will head off to Alaska to find gold, a short chapter of the book on the tales of their travel.
The story then comes back around to Estes Park Colorado and family life.
Although an enjoyable and easy read with strong characters, I would have preferred to read more about the history of Colorado and its parks - there is a some information of this history at the back of the book – but it is not the main focus of the story.
Although I enjoy historical fiction I’m not one for reading romance. This book is in my opinion an historical romance novel.
May 8, 2021
‘Catching currents’ is a story based on true events in Frontier Historic Colorado, written by Kari August. The book puts forward glimpses of life that can influence the readers all along. With distinctive characters and intricate explanations, the story advances in a portentous manner that can hold on to the thought and attention of the readers.
The last place Sally wants to spend the next year is at a Boston finishing school, shackled with even more rules than high society has already imposed on her. However, little does she realize that her life is about to take a dramatic turn—toward the rollicking West, where far fewer restrictions hold sway.
Even though the book is based on true events, I felt that the author’s research about these events is not up to the mark as it deviated a bit from reality through inordinate events and extreme portrayal of emotions. Despite the detailed description, there are some anomalies in the behavior and action of the characters with respect to the situations. In contrast to all the flaws, the book never fails to amuse the readers with all the elements of humor and satirical interpretations that make it historical fiction at its best.
‘Catching Currents’ captures not only a tumultuous era of exciting opportunities but also the struggles of those willing to chase those possibilities.
The last place Sally wants to spend the next year is at a Boston finishing school, shackled with even more rules than high society has already imposed on her. However, little does she realize that her life is about to take a dramatic turn—toward the rollicking West, where far fewer restrictions hold sway.
Even though the book is based on true events, I felt that the author’s research about these events is not up to the mark as it deviated a bit from reality through inordinate events and extreme portrayal of emotions. Despite the detailed description, there are some anomalies in the behavior and action of the characters with respect to the situations. In contrast to all the flaws, the book never fails to amuse the readers with all the elements of humor and satirical interpretations that make it historical fiction at its best.
‘Catching Currents’ captures not only a tumultuous era of exciting opportunities but also the struggles of those willing to chase those possibilities.
March 27, 2020
This book was simply amazing! What first called my attention was the beautiful cover; I loved the picture, it gave me peace. Then I read that it was based on true events in Frontier Historic Colorado and I didn’t think twice - I bought it.
This is one of those books that you want to read again immediately after you finish it because the story comes so alive in you. It definitely caught my interest and held it. As “Catching Currents” romance go, it was one of the best I’ve read in some time. I adored the characters, the plot kept me wondering what will happen next. It had unexpected twists and turns, and the ending left me sighing in contentment.
I was captured from the first chapter and had a really hard time putting the book down. I was not happy when I had to go back to my chores. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more books from this author in the future. I recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
This is one of those books that you want to read again immediately after you finish it because the story comes so alive in you. It definitely caught my interest and held it. As “Catching Currents” romance go, it was one of the best I’ve read in some time. I adored the characters, the plot kept me wondering what will happen next. It had unexpected twists and turns, and the ending left me sighing in contentment.
I was captured from the first chapter and had a really hard time putting the book down. I was not happy when I had to go back to my chores. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more books from this author in the future. I recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
March 25, 2020
I may have a new favorite author.
I picked up this book because it sounded like a great distraction! I am glad I did. I love the characters and the story line is great! I am a sucker for a romantic story and this one is perfect! The story takes place in the late 1890s and really brings to light the life of women in the west frontier. I love that this book has a strong female lead character especially for a historical romance. I really like that this story isn’t super deep, it is entertaining and kept me interested but it was a really light easy read, which is exactly what I was looking for to pass time! The characters are all well written, the story flows smoothly and takes you on an adventure to the western frontier. The writing style kind of made me feel like I was there witnessing it all first hand which I really like. I am excited to read more from Jari August.
I picked up this book because it sounded like a great distraction! I am glad I did. I love the characters and the story line is great! I am a sucker for a romantic story and this one is perfect! The story takes place in the late 1890s and really brings to light the life of women in the west frontier. I love that this book has a strong female lead character especially for a historical romance. I really like that this story isn’t super deep, it is entertaining and kept me interested but it was a really light easy read, which is exactly what I was looking for to pass time! The characters are all well written, the story flows smoothly and takes you on an adventure to the western frontier. The writing style kind of made me feel like I was there witnessing it all first hand which I really like. I am excited to read more from Jari August.
March 25, 2020
“Catching Currents: A frontier historic Colorado story” is a book written by Keri August, illustrated by Caroline Christner and edited by Tiffany Martin. This is the second book I read from this author and I liked it as much as the previous one, Settling the Wind.
The story is set amidst a nation that is quickly changing. It is a historical fiction based on true events, which makes the reading even more fruitful. The narration sets in a moments when social class makes you dress and act in a way and people had to what was socially correct (in a way, not so distant from our present).
The plot of the novel is very good and well developed throughout the book. Characters are well depicted for the time and their development is very good too. I like this story very much. I will certainly recommend reading Catching Currents.
The story is set amidst a nation that is quickly changing. It is a historical fiction based on true events, which makes the reading even more fruitful. The narration sets in a moments when social class makes you dress and act in a way and people had to what was socially correct (in a way, not so distant from our present).
The plot of the novel is very good and well developed throughout the book. Characters are well depicted for the time and their development is very good too. I like this story very much. I will certainly recommend reading Catching Currents.
May 14, 2021
Life captured in words
“Catching Currents” is the title of another of the fantastic works written by Kari August. In her piece, the author captures the simple and at the same time chaotic aspects of life and puts it into words.
Based on a true story set at the frontier of Colorado, “Catching Currents” brings to our hands a story set during the turbulent years when the 1900 century was coming to an end.
I consider this book as one of those readers for which I need to sit down and contemplate the images that appear in my mind. Beauty comes not only from the way it is written but also from the descriptions and the plot itself.
It is my opinion that the author should be recognized for such a heart-warming, sincere piece of writing. I hope that other adults can appreciate its beauty, too, and this is why I recommend it.
“Catching Currents” is the title of another of the fantastic works written by Kari August. In her piece, the author captures the simple and at the same time chaotic aspects of life and puts it into words.
Based on a true story set at the frontier of Colorado, “Catching Currents” brings to our hands a story set during the turbulent years when the 1900 century was coming to an end.
I consider this book as one of those readers for which I need to sit down and contemplate the images that appear in my mind. Beauty comes not only from the way it is written but also from the descriptions and the plot itself.
It is my opinion that the author should be recognized for such a heart-warming, sincere piece of writing. I hope that other adults can appreciate its beauty, too, and this is why I recommend it.
May 13, 2021
Catching Currents is a fantastic romantic historical fiction novel, written by amazing author Kari August.
This story is set in Colorado in the late 1890s and it tells the story of a couple of brothers and sisters who come from very different upbringings. Caroline falls in love with Sally's brother, Will, and almost at the same time, Sally catches feelings for Caroline's brother, Teddie.
I really enjoyed the fact that this book has two strong female lead characters. I think this is an entertaining and well-written novel, written by an author who has outstanding storytelling talents.
This novel makes a perfect read for a lazy Sunday afternoon and I am definitely planning on reading more novels from this great author!
This story is set in Colorado in the late 1890s and it tells the story of a couple of brothers and sisters who come from very different upbringings. Caroline falls in love with Sally's brother, Will, and almost at the same time, Sally catches feelings for Caroline's brother, Teddie.
I really enjoyed the fact that this book has two strong female lead characters. I think this is an entertaining and well-written novel, written by an author who has outstanding storytelling talents.
This novel makes a perfect read for a lazy Sunday afternoon and I am definitely planning on reading more novels from this great author!
May 10, 2021
Author Kari August has masterfully been able to pen a historical fiction with a great storyline in a catchy way.
Catching Currents touches on events and facts that occurred in history back in 1897 through the eyes of a woman who moved from Boston to Colorado where life was different. The main characters are strong females and, actually, one of the main themes of this story is the role of men and women in the late 80s.
The book is based on real events, it is written with simple language and it has plenty of dialogues which make the story easier to follow and has allowed me to feel as if I was experiencing the sequences of events first hand. I absolutely loved this book!
Catching Currents touches on events and facts that occurred in history back in 1897 through the eyes of a woman who moved from Boston to Colorado where life was different. The main characters are strong females and, actually, one of the main themes of this story is the role of men and women in the late 80s.
The book is based on real events, it is written with simple language and it has plenty of dialogues which make the story easier to follow and has allowed me to feel as if I was experiencing the sequences of events first hand. I absolutely loved this book!
May 13, 2021
From the beginning this book caught me. This is the second book I read by author Kari August and I must admit that every time I read a book of hers, I like it more and more. In this opportunity, I liked everything from this reading, from the cover to the description of the characters and the scenes.
“Catching Currents”, as the epilogue indicates, is a gripping tale of exciting opportunities and struggles by those who are willing to pursue those possibilities. The lives of Sally and her brother Will intertwine with those of Caroline and her brother Teddie, but their courtships soon end when they decide to go their separate ways. Will they be able to rewrite their destinies?
“Catching Currents”, as the epilogue indicates, is a gripping tale of exciting opportunities and struggles by those who are willing to pursue those possibilities. The lives of Sally and her brother Will intertwine with those of Caroline and her brother Teddie, but their courtships soon end when they decide to go their separate ways. Will they be able to rewrite their destinies?
May 9, 2020
I really adored the book Catching Currents by Kari August. I went into this booking thinking it was about two love stories with two sets of siblings, but it was so much more. I love learning about the frontier historic Colorado and puts Estes Park on my map of places to visit one day.
Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2021
Everything!
Yes, this book tells it all! Women in education & business, horse riding!! - to the Indian culture, game shooting, reserves and monuments, politics, romance and land settlement - based on fact, this author covers it all from her own family history, with humour and page-turning intrigue. A great read!
Yes, this book tells it all! Women in education & business, horse riding!! - to the Indian culture, game shooting, reserves and monuments, politics, romance and land settlement - based on fact, this author covers it all from her own family history, with humour and page-turning intrigue. A great read!
July 28, 2021
Too much history. I learned a lot about the settling of Estes Park, though.
August 27, 2021
Frontier adventure
Great book about Estes parks creation and settlement. The poor roads difficult weather and hardships of settling the beauty of the wild.
Great book about Estes parks creation and settlement. The poor roads difficult weather and hardships of settling the beauty of the wild.
January 20, 2022
Nice story
Even through many states away and very different ideas about where to live and ways of life......love happens. Enjoyed this book
Even through many states away and very different ideas about where to live and ways of life......love happens. Enjoyed this book
June 9, 2022
Colorado
Loved the early history of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. The stories of early pioneers was very interesting and real.
Loved the early history of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. The stories of early pioneers was very interesting and real.
November 13, 2020
This is the first I've read from Kari August and while I enjoyed it, I realized that I am not a fan of historical fiction set prior to the 20th century. While the characters are exploring the new world, it's just too far from current life for my mind to grasp.
Kari is a skilled writer and I enjoyed the writing and found that it was easy to read and keep up with, it just wasn't the story for me.
I received a copy of this from Netgalley and am leaving my honest opinion.
Kari is a skilled writer and I enjoyed the writing and found that it was easy to read and keep up with, it just wasn't the story for me.
I received a copy of this from Netgalley and am leaving my honest opinion.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews