What do you think?
Rate this book
Love on the Santa Fe #2
Beyond the Desert Sands
After living an opulent life with her aunt for the last few years, the last thing twenty-five-year-old Isabella Garcia wants is to have to celebrate Christmas in the small silver-mining town her father and mother founded in the desert. She'd rather stay in California with the handsome Diego Morales who is courting her. Isabella is further miffed to have to bear the company of Aaron Bailey, a businessman with the Santa Fe Railroad, whom her father has sent to escort her safely home. Aaron finds Isabella spoiled, and she finds him judgmental.
But she is surprised to see how much the town of Silver Veil has grown and how fragile her father's health has become. Then Diego shows up with news that her aunt has died. Isabella is saddened by the loss of not only her aunt, but also her place of escape.
Faced with all these changes, she struggles to sort through her future and who she wants to be. But trouble is brewing, and there are those who hope Isabella stays just as she is, even if it costs her everything.
But she is surprised to see how much the town of Silver Veil has grown and how fragile her father's health has become. Then Diego shows up with news that her aunt has died. Isabella is saddened by the loss of not only her aunt, but also her place of escape.
Faced with all these changes, she struggles to sort through her future and who she wants to be. But trouble is brewing, and there are those who hope Isabella stays just as she is, even if it costs her everything.
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2022
146 people are currently reading
2425 people want to read
About the author
Tracie Peterson
249 books3,117 followersTracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.
pen name: Janelle Jamison
pen name: Janelle Jamison
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 8, 2022
Beyond the Desert Sands takes place in New Mexico around the time it became a State. It can be read as a stand-alone.
Ms. Peterson treats us to a romantic and colorful setting in Silver Veil, New Mexico and parts of California. She writes her heroine, Isabella, as a spoiled heiress who doesn’t realize how fortunate she really is. But this gives time for her to grow up and progress in her faith. There is a lot of emphasis on her parents and how their faith has shaped then resulting in generosity and offering second chances.
Aaron, the hero, is well written with a compassionate and honest heart, who is not afraid to tell the hard truth.
There are plenty of scenes when hard choices are to be made and mercy to be shown. Danger lurks in unexpected places against a backdrop of rugged mining country,
Fans of a romantic story set in the old west will find a great story here.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Ms. Peterson treats us to a romantic and colorful setting in Silver Veil, New Mexico and parts of California. She writes her heroine, Isabella, as a spoiled heiress who doesn’t realize how fortunate she really is. But this gives time for her to grow up and progress in her faith. There is a lot of emphasis on her parents and how their faith has shaped then resulting in generosity and offering second chances.
Aaron, the hero, is well written with a compassionate and honest heart, who is not afraid to tell the hard truth.
There are plenty of scenes when hard choices are to be made and mercy to be shown. Danger lurks in unexpected places against a backdrop of rugged mining country,
Fans of a romantic story set in the old west will find a great story here.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
April 9, 2022
3 ⭐️
I’ve read several of Tracie Peterson’s books before, and I really enjoyed them. The author has a knack for creating clean, fun, and engaging books. Beyond the Desert Sands was enjoyable, but I’d definitely recommend some of her other books to those looking for clean historical fiction reads.
I did like the themes of redemption in the story with Isabella’s character between her relationship with God, her parents, and Andrew. The author did a good job of making Isabella come across as annoying/spoiled in the first half of the book, and there was a definite change in her character as she experienced the power of redemption towards the end of the book.
A few things (I’ll keep them brief) that kept me from giving this book a higher rating:
-There didn’t seem to be enough dialogue that allowed me to connect with any of the characters. I’ve read some books that did an incredible job of pulling me in and emotionally connecting me with the characters. I think if more details about the characters were included or more dialogue/inner thoughts, I would have connected more with Andrew and Isabella’s characters especially.
-The redemption arc with Isabella’s character didn’t seem clearly defined. As I said above, the author did a great job of having Isabella come across as annoying/spoiled at the beginning of the book, but I felt the transition from hard-hearted to softened wasn’t given enough time to play out to its fullest potential. The change seemed sudden and, within a very short span of time, Isabella went from being self-centered to selfless. Of course, I know from experience that God can work quickly in hearts that are responsive to Him, but I wish I was given a deeper look into how that changed Isabella’s character or how it made her feel, etc.
I don’t want to discourage others from reading this book, because while it was a three-star read for me, it may be a five-star read for someone else. So, as always, be sure to read other reviews and look for elements other readers enjoyed about this book that might intrigue you as well! I would definitely recommend this book for a younger audience (early teens, probably) because the writing style seemed like it would be suitable for that age group.
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of this book. All opinions are expressly my own.
I’ve read several of Tracie Peterson’s books before, and I really enjoyed them. The author has a knack for creating clean, fun, and engaging books. Beyond the Desert Sands was enjoyable, but I’d definitely recommend some of her other books to those looking for clean historical fiction reads.
I did like the themes of redemption in the story with Isabella’s character between her relationship with God, her parents, and Andrew. The author did a good job of making Isabella come across as annoying/spoiled in the first half of the book, and there was a definite change in her character as she experienced the power of redemption towards the end of the book.
A few things (I’ll keep them brief) that kept me from giving this book a higher rating:
-There didn’t seem to be enough dialogue that allowed me to connect with any of the characters. I’ve read some books that did an incredible job of pulling me in and emotionally connecting me with the characters. I think if more details about the characters were included or more dialogue/inner thoughts, I would have connected more with Andrew and Isabella’s characters especially.
-The redemption arc with Isabella’s character didn’t seem clearly defined. As I said above, the author did a great job of having Isabella come across as annoying/spoiled at the beginning of the book, but I felt the transition from hard-hearted to softened wasn’t given enough time to play out to its fullest potential. The change seemed sudden and, within a very short span of time, Isabella went from being self-centered to selfless. Of course, I know from experience that God can work quickly in hearts that are responsive to Him, but I wish I was given a deeper look into how that changed Isabella’s character or how it made her feel, etc.
I don’t want to discourage others from reading this book, because while it was a three-star read for me, it may be a five-star read for someone else. So, as always, be sure to read other reviews and look for elements other readers enjoyed about this book that might intrigue you as well! I would definitely recommend this book for a younger audience (early teens, probably) because the writing style seemed like it would be suitable for that age group.
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of this book. All opinions are expressly my own.
July 5, 2022
Really liked this one even though I was expecting it to be an actual series number with related characters. I’m always a hard sell on the “unlikeable character” and I don’t often get won over at all. But in this case I really enjoyed her awakening and her character arc.
Of course, the question all through the story is not if she will awaken, but if she will do so in time to prevent tragedy! There are plenty of sad and sweet moments along the way to keep the story moving along and any reader is sure to both “awww” and cry.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
Of course, the question all through the story is not if she will awaken, but if she will do so in time to prevent tragedy! There are plenty of sad and sweet moments along the way to keep the story moving along and any reader is sure to both “awww” and cry.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
November 22, 2022
What a journey! I adored this book and was riveted from the beginning.
I like that this series, Love on the Santa Fe, is connected via the railway line Santa Fe rather than by connected characters. That’s different and refreshing in a Peterson series. I do love when her series follow a specific family or group of friends, but this series is becoming a nice change of pace.
It was interesting to see the leading lady in this one was the complete opposite of the one in the previous book in the Love on the Santa Fe series. In that one, the leading lady was respectful of her parents even as she stopped enabling them. In this story, the leading lady was disrespectful of her parents when the book opened. She was spoiled rotten from never having difficult challenges or even household chores to keep her hands busy. I loved that her journey was to discover a new respect and love toward her parents as well as to think of other people before herself. It was a journey toward maturity, and it was very well written.
The plot was delightfully complex. The number of interesting players was good, and they each had their own goals and problems to deal with. The plot twists were fantastic. I especially enjoyed the one at the Founder’s Day picnic.
The thread about the cologne was superb! I loved how this was speckled throughout the story. It was just the bit of humor and coyness this story needed.
The cover might be absolutely gorgeous, but the faith threads were divine. From learning to honor one’s parents to repenting from one’s sins to gaining reconciliation, there were plenty of deep topics to dive into. This felt like a trademark Tracie Peterson book for how strong and bolstering the faith threads were. Very encouraging!
Content: gambling mentioned, prostitution and promiscuity mentioned, illegitimate children mentioned
I like that this series, Love on the Santa Fe, is connected via the railway line Santa Fe rather than by connected characters. That’s different and refreshing in a Peterson series. I do love when her series follow a specific family or group of friends, but this series is becoming a nice change of pace.
It was interesting to see the leading lady in this one was the complete opposite of the one in the previous book in the Love on the Santa Fe series. In that one, the leading lady was respectful of her parents even as she stopped enabling them. In this story, the leading lady was disrespectful of her parents when the book opened. She was spoiled rotten from never having difficult challenges or even household chores to keep her hands busy. I loved that her journey was to discover a new respect and love toward her parents as well as to think of other people before herself. It was a journey toward maturity, and it was very well written.
The plot was delightfully complex. The number of interesting players was good, and they each had their own goals and problems to deal with. The plot twists were fantastic. I especially enjoyed the one at the Founder’s Day picnic.
The thread about the cologne was superb! I loved how this was speckled throughout the story. It was just the bit of humor and coyness this story needed.
The cover might be absolutely gorgeous, but the faith threads were divine. From learning to honor one’s parents to repenting from one’s sins to gaining reconciliation, there were plenty of deep topics to dive into. This felt like a trademark Tracie Peterson book for how strong and bolstering the faith threads were. Very encouraging!
Content: gambling mentioned, prostitution and promiscuity mentioned, illegitimate children mentioned
July 10, 2022
It is 1904, Isabella Garcia has been living with her aunt in California where her every wish has been satisfied. Now her father has insisted she return to her parents in small Silver Veil, New Mexico. Isabella is furious because she loves Diego Morales and feels he is close to proposing, but little does Isabella know what a scoundrel he is. Will this move to New Mexico change her from the spoiled innocent she is to a caring young lady or not?
Tracie Peterson never disappoints with her Christian Fiction, and this particular historical fiction series has been wonderful. Watching the changes in Isabella as she learned about real life was rewarding especially as she came to realize the scoundrel that Diego Morales was as well as the quality characteristics she saw in Aaron. Also the development of her care and concern toward the people of Silver Veil and the choices her parents made in not informing her of her father's health issues. Overall, a well written and enjoyable book. As a youngster, I grew up riding trains including the Santa Fe, so this brought back great memories. I look forward to the last in this series.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
Tracie Peterson never disappoints with her Christian Fiction, and this particular historical fiction series has been wonderful. Watching the changes in Isabella as she learned about real life was rewarding especially as she came to realize the scoundrel that Diego Morales was as well as the quality characteristics she saw in Aaron. Also the development of her care and concern toward the people of Silver Veil and the choices her parents made in not informing her of her father's health issues. Overall, a well written and enjoyable book. As a youngster, I grew up riding trains including the Santa Fe, so this brought back great memories. I look forward to the last in this series.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
July 18, 2022
My blurb …
Isabella Garcia, 25, has lived with her aunt in opulence and is not happy to return to the mining town of Silver Veil to celebrate Christmas with her parents. Her beau, Diego Morales, is left behind in California. And her father sent a railroad businessman, Aaron Bailey, to escort her home who finds her to be spoiled and selfish.
Upon arrival, she finds the town has grown considerably, and sadly her father’s health is failing, A visitor makes a surprise visit with news that turns everything upside down. Brewing — trouble, changes. Can she rise to meet them or expect others to solve them?
My review …
What drew me to this book was the author, Tracie Peterson. It wasn’t the cover or the title; neither of them convey the genres that fit the description. Having read eight of her books, I trusted the Christian genre, as well as historical fiction by #NetGalley, would be handled appropriately.
Characters
Isabella, I have to warn you, is a spoiled brat. Totally self-centered. Everybody is out of step except her. And her poor my-parents-don’t-understand-me pity parties get old really fast. In other words, she may be 25 but she has a long way to go before she grows up.
Diego is about as charming as a rattlesnake in a matador costume.
Aaron is the perfect choice to escort her “home” to Silver Veil. He can read her like a book and isn’t impressed by her behavior. Yet stays a gentleman.
Plot
The plot of a dying father wanting to reconnect with his daughter should pull out our heartstrings. But I couldn’t quite get to that point since the parents let her go off and live with her aunt. Let her never come home. Basically allowed her to easily mature to the age of 25 and yet act like a bratty 12-year-old. Sympathetic? Yes. Empathy? Sorta.
Another plot revolves around Diego who does not (no surprise) walk on water the way Isabella thinks.
What will happen to the town when her father passes? He and his wife did SO much for the people. Will that legacy continue or fall totally on her mother’s shoulders?
Isabella’s aunt is a key character that I never felt I got to know about her. Why did she let Isabella stay with her all those years? Why didn’t she curb some of the uppity behavior? Does she see Diego for who he is? And she is a senior lady — what happens to the California estate when she dies?
Of course, Aaron is our hero but again, I liked him but … Was it the swirling plots & sub-plots that bothered me or the characters?
The setting is different than most western genres that seem to gravitate to somewhere in the Rocky Mountains.
Tracie Peterson is a competent author. I have loved some of her books; others not so much. And sadly, "Beyond the Desert Sands", falls into the latter category. For me, it was a solid three-star read. For you, it may be more.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Beyond the Desert Sands via NetGalley from the publisher, Bethany House. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#BeyondTheDesertSands #NetGalley #TraciePeterson
Genre Christian, Historical Western
Pages 297
Series Love on the Santa Fe, #2
Release 5 Jul 2022
Publisher Bethany House
Cover Nice but doesn’t quite fit
Rating 3 stars
Isabella Garcia, 25, has lived with her aunt in opulence and is not happy to return to the mining town of Silver Veil to celebrate Christmas with her parents. Her beau, Diego Morales, is left behind in California. And her father sent a railroad businessman, Aaron Bailey, to escort her home who finds her to be spoiled and selfish.
Upon arrival, she finds the town has grown considerably, and sadly her father’s health is failing, A visitor makes a surprise visit with news that turns everything upside down. Brewing — trouble, changes. Can she rise to meet them or expect others to solve them?
My review …
What drew me to this book was the author, Tracie Peterson. It wasn’t the cover or the title; neither of them convey the genres that fit the description. Having read eight of her books, I trusted the Christian genre, as well as historical fiction by #NetGalley, would be handled appropriately.
Characters
Isabella, I have to warn you, is a spoiled brat. Totally self-centered. Everybody is out of step except her. And her poor my-parents-don’t-understand-me pity parties get old really fast. In other words, she may be 25 but she has a long way to go before she grows up.
Diego is about as charming as a rattlesnake in a matador costume.
Aaron is the perfect choice to escort her “home” to Silver Veil. He can read her like a book and isn’t impressed by her behavior. Yet stays a gentleman.
Plot
The plot of a dying father wanting to reconnect with his daughter should pull out our heartstrings. But I couldn’t quite get to that point since the parents let her go off and live with her aunt. Let her never come home. Basically allowed her to easily mature to the age of 25 and yet act like a bratty 12-year-old. Sympathetic? Yes. Empathy? Sorta.
Another plot revolves around Diego who does not (no surprise) walk on water the way Isabella thinks.
What will happen to the town when her father passes? He and his wife did SO much for the people. Will that legacy continue or fall totally on her mother’s shoulders?
Isabella’s aunt is a key character that I never felt I got to know about her. Why did she let Isabella stay with her all those years? Why didn’t she curb some of the uppity behavior? Does she see Diego for who he is? And she is a senior lady — what happens to the California estate when she dies?
Of course, Aaron is our hero but again, I liked him but … Was it the swirling plots & sub-plots that bothered me or the characters?
The setting is different than most western genres that seem to gravitate to somewhere in the Rocky Mountains.
Tracie Peterson is a competent author. I have loved some of her books; others not so much. And sadly, "Beyond the Desert Sands", falls into the latter category. For me, it was a solid three-star read. For you, it may be more.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Beyond the Desert Sands via NetGalley from the publisher, Bethany House. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#BeyondTheDesertSands #NetGalley #TraciePeterson
Genre Christian, Historical Western
Pages 297
Series Love on the Santa Fe, #2
Release 5 Jul 2022
Publisher Bethany House
Cover Nice but doesn’t quite fit
Rating 3 stars
March 29, 2023
Beyond the Desert Sands is the second book in Tracie Peterson’s historical romance series Love on the Sante Fe.
This is an enemies-to-lovers romance and the tension between the two main characters was excellent. I also liked how they both realized the other had good points in their arguments. And I'm glad the ending worked out as it did. I won’t give spoilers, but I couldn't wait to see how it all worked out!
---
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
This is an enemies-to-lovers romance and the tension between the two main characters was excellent. I also liked how they both realized the other had good points in their arguments. And I'm glad the ending worked out as it did. I won’t give spoilers, but I couldn't wait to see how it all worked out!
---
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
June 25, 2022
An excellent read by Tracie Peterson. It's the second in her Love on the Santa Fe series, and can be read on it's own, but don't miss Along the Rio Grande either. Both are page turners!
Isabella Garcia thinks she knows how to carry out her life, and someone who is more mature and dashing as well-Diego Morales applauds her for this.
Her life takes some course altering twists and turns and Isabella might or might not be prepared for them.
The story is enmeshed in faith and romance, with places within the novel which are an absolute surprise.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and am glad more will be arriving from this wonderful author.
I received this novel from the publisher but was under no obligation to post nor write a review.
Isabella Garcia thinks she knows how to carry out her life, and someone who is more mature and dashing as well-Diego Morales applauds her for this.
Her life takes some course altering twists and turns and Isabella might or might not be prepared for them.
The story is enmeshed in faith and romance, with places within the novel which are an absolute surprise.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and am glad more will be arriving from this wonderful author.
I received this novel from the publisher but was under no obligation to post nor write a review.
June 8, 2022
"Beyond the Desert Sands" is a Christian romance set in 1911 in New Mexico. When Isabella was young, her parents forced her to leave family, friends, and a city life that she enjoyed to live in a remote desert area near a silver mine. They never explained why, so she concluded that they didn't care about her feelings so she shouldn't care about their feelings. Since no one else would, she'd fight for her chance of happiness: returning to live with her aunt. Now she's been called home due to her father's seriously waning health. When her parents finally explain why they moved here, she realizes she must forgive them and reevaluate her life.
The main characters were likable, complex, and reacted realistically to events. Nonetheless, it boggles my mind that her parents didn't want to worry Isabella (though she knew her father had poor health) so never even told her the move was to improve his health. They all admitted that they made mistakes in how they handled that, so much of the story was Isabella reconciling with her parents and making friends in the now-thriving town. Aaron didn't like her selfish, bitter attitude and bluntly let her know it, helping her to see how others viewed her behavior. He wasn't mean to Isabella despite how she initially treated him, and they became friends (and more) as they got to know each other. With God's leading, Aaron was willing to release his dreams for his future to help Isabella's family.
The Christian element was about forgiveness, second chances, and trusting God with your future. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable romance.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The main characters were likable, complex, and reacted realistically to events. Nonetheless, it boggles my mind that her parents didn't want to worry Isabella (though she knew her father had poor health) so never even told her the move was to improve his health. They all admitted that they made mistakes in how they handled that, so much of the story was Isabella reconciling with her parents and making friends in the now-thriving town. Aaron didn't like her selfish, bitter attitude and bluntly let her know it, helping her to see how others viewed her behavior. He wasn't mean to Isabella despite how she initially treated him, and they became friends (and more) as they got to know each other. With God's leading, Aaron was willing to release his dreams for his future to help Isabella's family.
The Christian element was about forgiveness, second chances, and trusting God with your future. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable romance.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
September 22, 2022
A willful young woman gets the life she wanted to live in wealth and privilege back in California with her aunt and far from the desert and mining town her parents have settled in, but now after years her father has called her back escorted by an impossible man who forces her to see herself through another lens. A new to me author, but an exciting time period in the historical American southwest had me eagerly giving this one a go.
Beyond the Desert Sands is the second book in a series. I was unaware of this until later and had no trouble reading it out of order. It’s definitely a standalone story that seems to just share the same time period and setting of the Santa Fe Railroad.
Isabella Garcia is a spoiled and pampered rich young girl when the book opens. She throws a hissy fit and keeps wearing down her father to let her leave the silver mining town to return to her easy life, friends, and the family home back in Los Angeles. She is ornery and disrespectful and can’t see any other perspective. At the age of twenty-five, she is still the same, but has been fawned over by others and even courted by a charming man from good family who has reasons other than love for cultivating her infatuation. It was difficult to read the first half of the book because she is rather detestable and I really wanted to reach through the words to smack her in the back of the head (and maybe everyone else who allowed her to get this way without checking her attitude and behavior).
But, there is Aaron who works for the Santa Fe Railroad and is a friend of Isabella’s father. He agrees to escort his friend’s daughter to him. She is a beauty, but her ugly attitude toward him, her parents, and anything not of Los Angeles turns him off her and he has no compunction stating what he thinks of her rotten attitude. I thought it was hilarious during their first meeting when she tries to fling her wealthy class at him and he tells her that his family could buy her family and not feel a pinch. He is part of helping her get her head on right and develops feelings for her as she changes over the course of the story. Aaron kept me reading through the first half as well as the southwest backdrop and the mining town and railroad historical elements.
There are strong inspirational themes of redemption and forgiveness. Aaron is a Christian and part of the reason Isabella’s turned around is her new beliefs. Her parents had belief, but that made me scratch my head as to why they and Isabella’s aunt whom she lived with in LA let her behavior get so atrocious when she was still younger. But, I definitely liked seeing the changes in her and the way she started to care for family and for the Silver Veil community. She really stepped up. I’m not a better person because I wanted more comeuppance for the villains than they got.
The romance was slow burn and background because of all the other matters going on including Isabella being infatuated with a charming wastrel for a good part of the book. I thought they had a good spark between them even when Isabella and Aaron were antagonistic, but I did love seeing them partnering and coming to care for each other.
All in all, I thought this sampling of new to me author and series went well. I could see how the author gave good attention to the historical backdrop and her characters so I would definitely pick up another of her books. The audience recommended to is definitely sweet historical romance and inspirational fiction fans.
I rec'd an eARC from Bethany House through NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer Sept 14th.
Beyond the Desert Sands is the second book in a series. I was unaware of this until later and had no trouble reading it out of order. It’s definitely a standalone story that seems to just share the same time period and setting of the Santa Fe Railroad.
Isabella Garcia is a spoiled and pampered rich young girl when the book opens. She throws a hissy fit and keeps wearing down her father to let her leave the silver mining town to return to her easy life, friends, and the family home back in Los Angeles. She is ornery and disrespectful and can’t see any other perspective. At the age of twenty-five, she is still the same, but has been fawned over by others and even courted by a charming man from good family who has reasons other than love for cultivating her infatuation. It was difficult to read the first half of the book because she is rather detestable and I really wanted to reach through the words to smack her in the back of the head (and maybe everyone else who allowed her to get this way without checking her attitude and behavior).
But, there is Aaron who works for the Santa Fe Railroad and is a friend of Isabella’s father. He agrees to escort his friend’s daughter to him. She is a beauty, but her ugly attitude toward him, her parents, and anything not of Los Angeles turns him off her and he has no compunction stating what he thinks of her rotten attitude. I thought it was hilarious during their first meeting when she tries to fling her wealthy class at him and he tells her that his family could buy her family and not feel a pinch. He is part of helping her get her head on right and develops feelings for her as she changes over the course of the story. Aaron kept me reading through the first half as well as the southwest backdrop and the mining town and railroad historical elements.
There are strong inspirational themes of redemption and forgiveness. Aaron is a Christian and part of the reason Isabella’s turned around is her new beliefs. Her parents had belief, but that made me scratch my head as to why they and Isabella’s aunt whom she lived with in LA let her behavior get so atrocious when she was still younger. But, I definitely liked seeing the changes in her and the way she started to care for family and for the Silver Veil community. She really stepped up. I’m not a better person because I wanted more comeuppance for the villains than they got.
The romance was slow burn and background because of all the other matters going on including Isabella being infatuated with a charming wastrel for a good part of the book. I thought they had a good spark between them even when Isabella and Aaron were antagonistic, but I did love seeing them partnering and coming to care for each other.
All in all, I thought this sampling of new to me author and series went well. I could see how the author gave good attention to the historical backdrop and her characters so I would definitely pick up another of her books. The audience recommended to is definitely sweet historical romance and inspirational fiction fans.
I rec'd an eARC from Bethany House through NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer Sept 14th.
July 23, 2022
As always with Peterson's books I was in love from the beginning.
I enjoyed watching Isabella grow from spoiled to actually growing up and becoming a caring woman. Along with help from others of course.
Though most of the help came from God. I give Him the most credit as with anything we do.
Peterson has such an amazing way with her stories. I love how she brings her characters to life and weaving the Christian faith into her stories.
The plot was wonderful too. I was sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time!
I think this will be my favorite series of hers.
5 stars for a job well done. I love a good story like this don't you? I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own
I enjoyed watching Isabella grow from spoiled to actually growing up and becoming a caring woman. Along with help from others of course.
Though most of the help came from God. I give Him the most credit as with anything we do.
Peterson has such an amazing way with her stories. I love how she brings her characters to life and weaving the Christian faith into her stories.
The plot was wonderful too. I was sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time!
I think this will be my favorite series of hers.
5 stars for a job well done. I love a good story like this don't you? I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own
July 5, 2022
Great redemption story set along the New Mexico rail lines!
Isabella Garcia has hated her life since she was ten years old when her parents tore her away from the family and estate that she loved in California and moved to New Mexico to start up the town of Silver Veil. She has gone back to stay with her aunt many times, but always loathes to return. Now at twenty-five, she feels that she is entitled to remain in California and marry her childhood crush Diego, who can manage her inheritance from her grandparents. But once again, she must make the trip to Silver Veil to spend time with her parents for Christmas. The only thing worse is that she must be accompanied by Aaron Bailey, who she has been at odds with for five years when he called her out for her selfish behavior.
Upon arriving in Silver Veil, she sees that the town has grown and learns that her father’s true reasons to leaving California were due to his health. Several days later, she also learns that her beloved aunt has died, and the estate was sold over a year ago. Now she must truly look at herself and behavior and decide if what she has really wanted all those years mean anything or if there is something more on the horizon.
I didn’t think that Peterson could write a character that would be more self-centered and annoying than she had in the first book in this series, but oh did she prove me wrong. Isabella is the most entitled, selfish character I have ever encountered in a book. She rubbed me the wrong way from the beginning and just kept on rubbing. Maybe it’s because I’m a parent of a preteen, but I was ready to lay down the law to her. But everyone is truly entitled to redemption, and I must say that her character’s turnaround was astonishing. How is it possible that a character you just love to hate can become one that you want to love? Truly a showing of how God’s love can impact people.
There is plenty of suspense, intrigue, and deception throughout these pages, so don’t think this is going to be some sappy historical romance. It’s exciting and will keep you on the edge of your seat while you enjoy learning part of the history of New Mexico.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Isabella Garcia has hated her life since she was ten years old when her parents tore her away from the family and estate that she loved in California and moved to New Mexico to start up the town of Silver Veil. She has gone back to stay with her aunt many times, but always loathes to return. Now at twenty-five, she feels that she is entitled to remain in California and marry her childhood crush Diego, who can manage her inheritance from her grandparents. But once again, she must make the trip to Silver Veil to spend time with her parents for Christmas. The only thing worse is that she must be accompanied by Aaron Bailey, who she has been at odds with for five years when he called her out for her selfish behavior.
Upon arriving in Silver Veil, she sees that the town has grown and learns that her father’s true reasons to leaving California were due to his health. Several days later, she also learns that her beloved aunt has died, and the estate was sold over a year ago. Now she must truly look at herself and behavior and decide if what she has really wanted all those years mean anything or if there is something more on the horizon.
I didn’t think that Peterson could write a character that would be more self-centered and annoying than she had in the first book in this series, but oh did she prove me wrong. Isabella is the most entitled, selfish character I have ever encountered in a book. She rubbed me the wrong way from the beginning and just kept on rubbing. Maybe it’s because I’m a parent of a preteen, but I was ready to lay down the law to her. But everyone is truly entitled to redemption, and I must say that her character’s turnaround was astonishing. How is it possible that a character you just love to hate can become one that you want to love? Truly a showing of how God’s love can impact people.
There is plenty of suspense, intrigue, and deception throughout these pages, so don’t think this is going to be some sappy historical romance. It’s exciting and will keep you on the edge of your seat while you enjoy learning part of the history of New Mexico.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
August 2, 2022
PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: http://bookreadingtic.com/2022/08/02/... THANK YOU!
Can You Go Home Again?
Isabella has been mad at her parents since she was ten years old. That is when they moved from her beloved California, and relocated to Silver Veil, a desolate place in New Mexico. From the time she was old enough, she left her parents behind returning to California to live with an aunt.
Over the years, her continued bitterness over the issue has caused her to become self-centered and mean. The only one more selfish is Diego a playboy ten years older than her, whom Isabella wants to marry. Diego has never worked, gambling instead and creating huge debts his father has paid.
Now, his wealthy father has told him he must do something with his life, or he will be kicked out of their home and disinherited. Diego has decided he will give in and marry Isabella, and live off the fortune she will get after marriage.
Isabella is twenty-five, and has been forced by her parents to come back to Silver Veil for Christmas. She has not been there for years.
She finds her father is dying, and the move years ago had been for her father's health. Afraid knowing her father was ill would be too big a weight for Isabella, they never shared the truth. But instead of that knowledge being a burden for Isabella, it would have given her understanding about it, and brought a better relationship for them all.
Will Isabella believe what her father tells her about Diego's true nature? Will the kidnapping put an end to all their plans? Will Isabella and her mother lose their family fortune?
This is a great story of forgiveness as the parents walk out their Christian principals despite being treated badly. The tale will touch your heart, and you will enjoy the twists the book takes. This clean, five-star story will be liked by fans of turn-of-the-century tales, or families that get rid of their complications!
Bethany House Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Beyond the Desert Sands, for the purpose of review.
Can You Go Home Again?
Isabella has been mad at her parents since she was ten years old. That is when they moved from her beloved California, and relocated to Silver Veil, a desolate place in New Mexico. From the time she was old enough, she left her parents behind returning to California to live with an aunt.
Over the years, her continued bitterness over the issue has caused her to become self-centered and mean. The only one more selfish is Diego a playboy ten years older than her, whom Isabella wants to marry. Diego has never worked, gambling instead and creating huge debts his father has paid.
Now, his wealthy father has told him he must do something with his life, or he will be kicked out of their home and disinherited. Diego has decided he will give in and marry Isabella, and live off the fortune she will get after marriage.
Isabella is twenty-five, and has been forced by her parents to come back to Silver Veil for Christmas. She has not been there for years.
She finds her father is dying, and the move years ago had been for her father's health. Afraid knowing her father was ill would be too big a weight for Isabella, they never shared the truth. But instead of that knowledge being a burden for Isabella, it would have given her understanding about it, and brought a better relationship for them all.
Will Isabella believe what her father tells her about Diego's true nature? Will the kidnapping put an end to all their plans? Will Isabella and her mother lose their family fortune?
This is a great story of forgiveness as the parents walk out their Christian principals despite being treated badly. The tale will touch your heart, and you will enjoy the twists the book takes. This clean, five-star story will be liked by fans of turn-of-the-century tales, or families that get rid of their complications!
Bethany House Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Beyond the Desert Sands, for the purpose of review.
October 28, 2022
Beyond The Deset Sands is the second book in the Love on the Santa Fe series. Being that I just finished the first in the series yesterday I just read this whole book today, it was just that good. I was ready to read the third and complete the series and was VERY disappointed that the publisher denied my request for it :(
The author's books are so well researched it's obvious she puts a lot of time and effort into it.
I lived in Yuma, Arizona and Chino Valley, Arizona for some time and being that this takes place in NM which has a similar setting to those areas I could vividly visualize the descriptions.
Returning home after spending time with her aunt who lives in opulence in California and which Isabella Garcia has become accustomed to this lifestyle, she returns to spend Christmas time in the silver-mining desert town of Silver Veil. She has to leave behind her beau Diego Morales whom she desperately misses. There are rumors of his wild past life he's lived illegitimate children, debts he's run up and more. Isabella dismisses it as sowing his wild oats and believes he's matured and chalks it all up to just rumors from those who don't like him. Blindly in love she sees him through a child's eyes of blind devotion. When she starts to take another look at him after being warned by a upstanding man who has admired her for a long time that she had just blown off, her eyes become opened to the truth. With her father gravely ill how can she hope to have a relationship with this upstanding man who wants only her safety and the best for her. There is a surprise in this one that I just hadn't seen coming. Change is inevitable but Isabella has important decisions to make concerning her future. Important faith elements. I loved this book. Highly recommended.
Pub Date 05 Jul 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
The author's books are so well researched it's obvious she puts a lot of time and effort into it.
I lived in Yuma, Arizona and Chino Valley, Arizona for some time and being that this takes place in NM which has a similar setting to those areas I could vividly visualize the descriptions.
Returning home after spending time with her aunt who lives in opulence in California and which Isabella Garcia has become accustomed to this lifestyle, she returns to spend Christmas time in the silver-mining desert town of Silver Veil. She has to leave behind her beau Diego Morales whom she desperately misses. There are rumors of his wild past life he's lived illegitimate children, debts he's run up and more. Isabella dismisses it as sowing his wild oats and believes he's matured and chalks it all up to just rumors from those who don't like him. Blindly in love she sees him through a child's eyes of blind devotion. When she starts to take another look at him after being warned by a upstanding man who has admired her for a long time that she had just blown off, her eyes become opened to the truth. With her father gravely ill how can she hope to have a relationship with this upstanding man who wants only her safety and the best for her. There is a surprise in this one that I just hadn't seen coming. Change is inevitable but Isabella has important decisions to make concerning her future. Important faith elements. I loved this book. Highly recommended.
Pub Date 05 Jul 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
July 2, 2022
*4.5 stars
Whew, when I first picked up this book I did NOT like Isabella. Good thing that's the way it was supposed to be right? Haha. Her character certainly had a lot of growing up to do through the pages, and it wasn't an easy ride for her. Insert Aaron Bailey who is her apparent nemesis (and not afraid to tell her the honest truth even it it's hard to swallow), and you have just the right recipe for some rather interesting circumstances.
I like that Isabella's character genuinely seemed to grow and mature as a process, and it wasn't an overnight thing. There were certainly circumstances that helped to speed things along for her, but there were still things she struggled with and it made her journey seem more authentic. And the banter between her and Aaron Bailey was just plain fun. And I really don't like Diego but won't spoil anything about him either. But I still don't like him.
My only complaint with this one was that (without spoiling what the ending is), the forgiveness was too overboard. Forgiveness can be given without getting rid of or watering down consequences. And repentance can happen even if one still has consequences they must face. An ending doesn't have to be fluffy to be happy.
Overall I really enjoyed this story though and I'm already looking forward to the next one. I always appreciate knowing how much the author loves and respects history, and so I love getting to learn a bit about history while also enjoying a good story. Can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
Whew, when I first picked up this book I did NOT like Isabella. Good thing that's the way it was supposed to be right? Haha. Her character certainly had a lot of growing up to do through the pages, and it wasn't an easy ride for her. Insert Aaron Bailey who is her apparent nemesis (and not afraid to tell her the honest truth even it it's hard to swallow), and you have just the right recipe for some rather interesting circumstances.
I like that Isabella's character genuinely seemed to grow and mature as a process, and it wasn't an overnight thing. There were certainly circumstances that helped to speed things along for her, but there were still things she struggled with and it made her journey seem more authentic. And the banter between her and Aaron Bailey was just plain fun. And I really don't like Diego but won't spoil anything about him either. But I still don't like him.
My only complaint with this one was that (without spoiling what the ending is), the forgiveness was too overboard. Forgiveness can be given without getting rid of or watering down consequences. And repentance can happen even if one still has consequences they must face. An ending doesn't have to be fluffy to be happy.
Overall I really enjoyed this story though and I'm already looking forward to the next one. I always appreciate knowing how much the author loves and respects history, and so I love getting to learn a bit about history while also enjoying a good story. Can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
November 29, 2022
Book 2 of the series is just as awesome as book one. We are introduced to Isabella Garcia and her family. At a young age her father packed up the family and moved to NM in order to start and build a town. Isabella was always mad at her father because he took her away from her family, her friends and her lifestyle. As an only child you will discover that Isabella is very spoiled and demanding and wants her father to give her everything she want. Well, most of know how that turns out.
She is allowed to stay with her grandmother for her teen years and has all the great clothes and things she wants but then her father insists that she come home for Christmas. She really would rather stay in CA as she knows that Diego Morales is going to ask her to marry him and she wants to be able to accept it.
Her father sends one of his associates Aaron Bailey who works with the Santa Fe railroad and has shown her father that he is an admiral man. He leaves and returns to CA much to the chagrin of Isabella as she has tangled with him before and finds him intolerable.
Once she is home she discovers that her father is not well and so pushes him to accept Diego so that he can walk her down the isle. Her father knows the real Diego and knows his is a man with no principles who has a very checkered past. Isabella's parents are in hopes that she will eventually discover how wonderful Aaron is and fall for him. Tracie weaves a wonderful tale of a spoiled brat who comes to realize her mistakes and her love for her parents.
Living in NM I love reading these books about the area and how beautiful it is. After 25 years of living here I don't want to live anywhere else. You will enjoy this story immensely.
She is allowed to stay with her grandmother for her teen years and has all the great clothes and things she wants but then her father insists that she come home for Christmas. She really would rather stay in CA as she knows that Diego Morales is going to ask her to marry him and she wants to be able to accept it.
Her father sends one of his associates Aaron Bailey who works with the Santa Fe railroad and has shown her father that he is an admiral man. He leaves and returns to CA much to the chagrin of Isabella as she has tangled with him before and finds him intolerable.
Once she is home she discovers that her father is not well and so pushes him to accept Diego so that he can walk her down the isle. Her father knows the real Diego and knows his is a man with no principles who has a very checkered past. Isabella's parents are in hopes that she will eventually discover how wonderful Aaron is and fall for him. Tracie weaves a wonderful tale of a spoiled brat who comes to realize her mistakes and her love for her parents.
Living in NM I love reading these books about the area and how beautiful it is. After 25 years of living here I don't want to live anywhere else. You will enjoy this story immensely.
July 9, 2022
Beyond the Desert Sands, set in the early 1900s, is an impressive addition to the Love on the Santa Fe series. Once again, Ms. Peterson, with her exceptional storytelling skill and fluent style, has crafted a captivating, inspiring story. The smoothly flowing plot relating a tale of estrangement, heartache, deception, revenge, and love kept me turning pages. Wonderfully descriptive prose dropped me into the New Mexico desert setting allowing me to feel the atmosphere and experience the action. The well-crafted characters found a place in my heart very quickly. I enjoyed the slow and sweet unfolding of Aaron and Isabella’s unlikely romantic relationship. I greatly appreciate the strong faith thread that runs throughout the story with themes of forgiveness and redemption. I love the way Isabella’s heart was transformed by faith. Aaron and Daniel are my favorite characters because of the strong faith that they evidenced daily. The Santa Fe Railroad and New Mexico history expertly woven into the story is educational as well as interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it especially for fans of historical romance. Note: This book is easily read as a standalone.
I received a review copy from Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.
I received a review copy from Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.
August 5, 2024
Isabella had hatred in her heart for her mother and father because they moved her from California to Mexico when she was ten years old so she lost all her friends. She was allowed to go back to California to live with her Aunt when she was older for five years, but then her father was calling for her to come home. Isabella was furious - and that her father would send Aaron to escort her home. Aunt Josephine was to come to New Mexico but she had an unfortunate mishap and lost her life. This book is about contention in a family, overcoming prior assumptions that you believed but were not true, forgiveness, and finding love in the most unlikely situation. Isabelle thought she loved Diego, but when he takes her as his hostage to get money from her father, she sees him in a whole new light. When she's rescued, she doesn't want to charge Diego because she forgives him. He has had a life of luxury and has habits of gambling and has a son who he has never seen. Isabelle feels he just needs to learn his lesson and make changes in his life. Aaron and her father say that Diego needs to go before the judge and receive a sentence to encourage him to change. Isabelle's father is dying and that is why he wanted her to come home. How her heart changes is truly inspiring to give hope that forgiveness is possible, but not always easy.
August 26, 2022
Beyond the Desert Sands, set in the early 1900s, is the second in a series, Love on the Santa Fe. This can be read as a standalone story.
Isabella starts out as a poor little rich girl, spoiled and entitled, living in California with her aunt. Her parents moved to New Mexico when she was small and she lived with them for a number of years, always feeling cheated. Finally able to move back to California, she falls in love with Diego.
Called back to New Mexico, and escorted by Aaron Bailey, a Santa Fe railway employee and friend of her father, she unwillingly goes back, not realizing her father may be dying. Isabella's father, Daniel, heads up a large, varied company, silver mines, the founding of the town Silver Veil and its growth and progress, ranching, all the while treating others as he wants to be treated. A firm believer in following Christ's teaching, this is evidenced daily.
The Santa Fe Railroad and New Mexico history are woven into the story. A little romance, a little history, a little intrigue, all makes for a lovely heartfelt story. It was interesting to watch Isabella grow and mature. There was a theme of forgiveness and redemption running throughout the book.
I received a review copy from Bethany House, in exchange for an honest review.
Isabella starts out as a poor little rich girl, spoiled and entitled, living in California with her aunt. Her parents moved to New Mexico when she was small and she lived with them for a number of years, always feeling cheated. Finally able to move back to California, she falls in love with Diego.
Called back to New Mexico, and escorted by Aaron Bailey, a Santa Fe railway employee and friend of her father, she unwillingly goes back, not realizing her father may be dying. Isabella's father, Daniel, heads up a large, varied company, silver mines, the founding of the town Silver Veil and its growth and progress, ranching, all the while treating others as he wants to be treated. A firm believer in following Christ's teaching, this is evidenced daily.
The Santa Fe Railroad and New Mexico history are woven into the story. A little romance, a little history, a little intrigue, all makes for a lovely heartfelt story. It was interesting to watch Isabella grow and mature. There was a theme of forgiveness and redemption running throughout the book.
I received a review copy from Bethany House, in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2022
Tracie Peterson is one of my go-to authors. In her latest release the historical romance, Beyond the Desert Sands, I must be honest and say it took me several chapters before I became invested in the protagonist, Isabella Garcia. Her pretentious behavior and sense of entitlement were off-putting until the story behind her attitude was revealed later.
Once I was more emotionally invested in young Isabella, the story moved quickly with great plot twists set in the charming town of Silver Veil, New Mexico.
The hero, Aaron Baily was strong, with great integrity. His biggest beef with Isabella is her treatment of her parents. Secondly, her treatment of those “beneath” her.
The antagonist Diego Morales was multi-dimensional rogue, and his behavior surprised me on several occasions, both good and bad.
Although I’m not giving Beyond the Desert Sands a 5-star rating, it’s a very strong 4. If I could give it a 4.5, I would.
Recommended for readers of historical romance, Christian romance readers, and stories with redemptive elements.
The publisher, Bethany House provided an eBook #beyondthedesertsands thought #NetGalley for my honest review.
Once I was more emotionally invested in young Isabella, the story moved quickly with great plot twists set in the charming town of Silver Veil, New Mexico.
The hero, Aaron Baily was strong, with great integrity. His biggest beef with Isabella is her treatment of her parents. Secondly, her treatment of those “beneath” her.
The antagonist Diego Morales was multi-dimensional rogue, and his behavior surprised me on several occasions, both good and bad.
Although I’m not giving Beyond the Desert Sands a 5-star rating, it’s a very strong 4. If I could give it a 4.5, I would.
Recommended for readers of historical romance, Christian romance readers, and stories with redemptive elements.
The publisher, Bethany House provided an eBook #beyondthedesertsands thought #NetGalley for my honest review.
July 28, 2022
Beyond the Desert Sands is book two in the Love on the Santa Fe series by Traci Peterson. This is a Christian romance set in 1911 in New Mexico. As a young child, Isabella's parents moved the family to a small mining town. As a young lady, she pushes her parents to allow her to move to her aunts in California. When her parents have her come to them for Christmas she is not happy to leave her aunt's home, her friends, activities or her boyfriend.
This is a nicely written story that shows the importance of communication. Had Isabella's parents explained the true situation to her, her life would have been different. She would have know the importance of the move. This is a story of forgiveness, second chances and having faith. I especially enjoyed the part of the story when Isabella was told the truth. I can appreciate how she felt about the time that was lost. I enjoyed the questions raised about her boyfriend and how his father responded to them.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
This is a nicely written story that shows the importance of communication. Had Isabella's parents explained the true situation to her, her life would have been different. She would have know the importance of the move. This is a story of forgiveness, second chances and having faith. I especially enjoyed the part of the story when Isabella was told the truth. I can appreciate how she felt about the time that was lost. I enjoyed the questions raised about her boyfriend and how his father responded to them.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
September 15, 2023
This book is set in 1904 Silver Veil, New Mexico. Isabella Garcia is the prodigal son or daughter in this case. She was so angry with her parents and set off to do her own thing, which also meant distancing herself from God. She was selfish, and spoiled. Aaron Bailey is an honorable, godly man. He works with Isabella’s father, and her father wants him to take over his business. Aaron calls out Isabella for her selfishness and she hates him for it. She wants to marry Diego Morales, but her father refuses to allow that to happen because Diego is not an honorable man. He tells Diego to prove himself by working in the mine for a year. Isabella finds out that her father is dying and realizes all the time she has wasted by being angry. She also gets to know Aaron. This is a great story about forgiveness and coming back to the Lord. I enjoyed this story, the only problem I had was I kept forgetting what time period it was set in because it felt too modern at times. Overall good story, definitely recommend.
October 27, 2023
Beyond the Desert Sands
by Tracie Peterson
Pub Date 05 Jul 2022
Bethany House,Bethany House Publishers
Christian| Historical Fiction
Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers provided me with a copy of Beyond the Desert Sands in exchange for my review:
Will she find peace with herself?
The last thing twenty-five-year-old Isabella Garcia wants is to celebrate Christmas in her parents' small silver-mining desert town, far from her handsome beau, Diego Morales. Moreover, she must bear the company of Aaron Bailey, the disapproving Santa Fe Railroad businessman her father has sent to escort her home.
But she is surprised by how much Silver Veil has grown and how fragile her father's health has become. One day, a surprise visitor shows up with news that completely upends her comfortable life.
She struggles to decide who she wants to be in the face of all these changes. Trouble is brewing, and some hope she stays as she is, even if it costs everything.
I give Beyond the Desert Sands five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
by Tracie Peterson
Pub Date 05 Jul 2022
Bethany House,Bethany House Publishers
Christian| Historical Fiction
Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers provided me with a copy of Beyond the Desert Sands in exchange for my review:
Will she find peace with herself?
The last thing twenty-five-year-old Isabella Garcia wants is to celebrate Christmas in her parents' small silver-mining desert town, far from her handsome beau, Diego Morales. Moreover, she must bear the company of Aaron Bailey, the disapproving Santa Fe Railroad businessman her father has sent to escort her home.
But she is surprised by how much Silver Veil has grown and how fragile her father's health has become. One day, a surprise visitor shows up with news that completely upends her comfortable life.
She struggles to decide who she wants to be in the face of all these changes. Trouble is brewing, and some hope she stays as she is, even if it costs everything.
I give Beyond the Desert Sands five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Read
October 30, 2022Beyond the Desert Sands, by Tracie Peterson, is book two in her Love on the Santa Fe series. Fans of Tracie will enjoy this book. The story focuses on a young lady who I had a difficult time liking at first. She was deceived by romantic notions that overshadowed reality of a life that truly blessed her.
From the start, when she reluctantly left California to join her parents, she was resentful, spoiled and deceived by romantic notions of love. Her deceptions clouded her judgment about her parents and a young man who would be there through thick and thin for her and her family. This young woman had so much to learn that I had hoped that she would come to see Diego for the person he was and that she would see how much her parents truly loved her.
I recommend this book to all fans of Tracie Peterson and to all the new readers who may have heard of Tracie but have yet to pick up a copy of her books.
From the start, when she reluctantly left California to join her parents, she was resentful, spoiled and deceived by romantic notions of love. Her deceptions clouded her judgment about her parents and a young man who would be there through thick and thin for her and her family. This young woman had so much to learn that I had hoped that she would come to see Diego for the person he was and that she would see how much her parents truly loved her.
I recommend this book to all fans of Tracie Peterson and to all the new readers who may have heard of Tracie but have yet to pick up a copy of her books.
April 7, 2022
Isabella Garcia has been living with her Aunt in California but decides to visit her parents in Silver Veil, NM, a town founded by her father near a silver mine he owns. She has never wanted to live there, preferring her former home in California but her father is ill. And she wants to convince her father to let her marry her California neighbor, Diego Morales. Her father sends his best friend and confidant, Aaron Bailey to accompany her on the train ride. He thinks Isabella is a spoiled brat and she thinks he is insufferable.
This is a great second book in this series that highlights the history of the Santa Fe Railroad and the Harvey House restaurants. Tracie Peterson does great historical research and write interesting stories.
I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my own honest opinion.
This is a great second book in this series that highlights the history of the Santa Fe Railroad and the Harvey House restaurants. Tracie Peterson does great historical research and write interesting stories.
I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my own honest opinion.
October 19, 2022
Another great story from Tracie Peterson. I was disappointed that the characters from the first book in the series didn't make even a cameo appearance and weren't mentioned at all in this book. The town from the first book (San Marcial) was mentioned and made to sound like it was a short train ride away, so it would have been fun if Owen and Susannah could have been connected somehow, even just a little bit to this story.
This series seems to focus on main characters that start out extremely entitled and come across as downright spoiled brats, but by the end they have seen the error of their ways and become caring people. It does seem that they come to change their attitudes a bit on the fast side, but it doesn't detract from the story too much.
I look forward to listening to the last book in the series which I have on hold to listen to as soon as it's available.
This series seems to focus on main characters that start out extremely entitled and come across as downright spoiled brats, but by the end they have seen the error of their ways and become caring people. It does seem that they come to change their attitudes a bit on the fast side, but it doesn't detract from the story too much.
I look forward to listening to the last book in the series which I have on hold to listen to as soon as it's available.
February 23, 2023
This book was ok. It was very cheesy and it had some good suspense. But, Isabella is such a spoiled rotten brat and her parents are stupid for not telling her the truth about why they moved. The book starts off when Isabella is 18 years old and wants to go live with her Aunt in California because Isabella can’t be bothered to be happy in New Mexico. Why can’t she? Well because her parents can’t be bothered to tell their ONLY CHILD why they moved from California to New Mexico. Isabella has an infatuation with a guy from California and refuses to listen to her family as to why she needs to break up with him. But her parents won’t tell her why until the very end of the book.
At the end of the book, Isabella has a change of heart and tries to make good out of something bad.
Typical cheesy romance novel. I am giving 3 stars for good writing but it should’ve ended differently.
At the end of the book, Isabella has a change of heart and tries to make good out of something bad.
Typical cheesy romance novel. I am giving 3 stars for good writing but it should’ve ended differently.
March 2, 2023
Spoiled Isabella chafes at her parents' guidance. As a 20-something, she relocates back to her original family home, in California, with her spinster aunt. When the aunt dies, Isabella must return to her parents and sort out what comes next.
Isabella's father, Daniel Garcia, founded the town, a mining town, where they live and serve as founders and mentors. He has run it with benevolence, but he needs someone to take over the businesses and keep the spirit of the town alive. He has found it in Aaron Bailey, though Aaron works for the Santa Fe railroad. Their paths crossed years ago and Daniel found a kindred spirit in Aaron. Plus, he knows that Daniel would run with God-led plans. Aaron, though, is less inclined to give up his career path with the Santa Fe.
Thanks to Bethany House for providing me an ARC in exchange for a review in my own words.
Isabella's father, Daniel Garcia, founded the town, a mining town, where they live and serve as founders and mentors. He has run it with benevolence, but he needs someone to take over the businesses and keep the spirit of the town alive. He has found it in Aaron Bailey, though Aaron works for the Santa Fe railroad. Their paths crossed years ago and Daniel found a kindred spirit in Aaron. Plus, he knows that Daniel would run with God-led plans. Aaron, though, is less inclined to give up his career path with the Santa Fe.
Thanks to Bethany House for providing me an ARC in exchange for a review in my own words.
September 25, 2023
Second in the Love on the Santa Fe series, this book focuses on spoiled Isabella who at the age of 25 is still unmarried and wants to wed a man who is unsuitable for her in many ways. She has low regard for her parents who love and adore her and have only done what they thought best for her when she was a child.
They had moved to New Mexico territory at the advise of her father's doctor when she was 10 in hopes that is would improve her father's health which it did. They did not tell Isabella why they moved and she has resented the move ever since. When truths come out on each side Isabella's selfish, self-centered ways begin to change and the family grows closer while it is evident that her father will soon meet his Maker.
Once again Tracie presents a wonderful story where characters grow and mature in their walk with the Lord.
They had moved to New Mexico territory at the advise of her father's doctor when she was 10 in hopes that is would improve her father's health which it did. They did not tell Isabella why they moved and she has resented the move ever since. When truths come out on each side Isabella's selfish, self-centered ways begin to change and the family grows closer while it is evident that her father will soon meet his Maker.
Once again Tracie presents a wonderful story where characters grow and mature in their walk with the Lord.
May 9, 2024
I liked this book but I had a few issues with it…
I hated the main character for the majority of this book lol I know that was purposefully done by the author, Isabella was a spoiled brat then did a 360 at the end but I feel like I disliked her for the majority of the book.
Also, this book was kind of an enemies to lovers situation. Which is great, but it wasn’t drawn out enough. I feel like from one page to the other they hated each other then all of a sudden in love. It was so fast and not enough time between the love and the hate it made it less believable. They hated each other then two days passed and they were getting engaged. Their relationship needed more developing.
Overall it was a good book. It was hard to put down, very enjoyable. One character I really liked and was hardly even written about was Lupe, I would have loved to of read this through her POV.
I hated the main character for the majority of this book lol I know that was purposefully done by the author, Isabella was a spoiled brat then did a 360 at the end but I feel like I disliked her for the majority of the book.
Also, this book was kind of an enemies to lovers situation. Which is great, but it wasn’t drawn out enough. I feel like from one page to the other they hated each other then all of a sudden in love. It was so fast and not enough time between the love and the hate it made it less believable. They hated each other then two days passed and they were getting engaged. Their relationship needed more developing.
Overall it was a good book. It was hard to put down, very enjoyable. One character I really liked and was hardly even written about was Lupe, I would have loved to of read this through her POV.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews