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Beneath the Bending Skies
Mollie Sheehan has spent much of her life striving to be a dutiful daughter and honor her father's wishes, even when doing so has led to one heartbreak after another. After all, what options does she truly have in 1860s Montana? But providing for her stepfamily during her father's long absences doesn't keep her from wishing for more.
When romance blooms between her and Peter Ronan, Mollie finally allows herself to hope for a brighter future--until her father voices his disapproval of the match and moves her to California to ensure the breakup. Still, time and providence are at work, even when circumstances are at their bleakest. Mollie may soon find that someone far greater than her father is in control of the course of her life--and that even the command to "honor thy father" has its limits.
New from New York Times bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick, Beneath the Bending Skies is a sweeping story of hospitality, destiny, and the bonds of family.
***
"Readers will enjoy the sweeping landscapes, complex father-daughter relationship, and the unassuming power and relevancy of this wonderfully multilayered novel."-- Booklist
When romance blooms between her and Peter Ronan, Mollie finally allows herself to hope for a brighter future--until her father voices his disapproval of the match and moves her to California to ensure the breakup. Still, time and providence are at work, even when circumstances are at their bleakest. Mollie may soon find that someone far greater than her father is in control of the course of her life--and that even the command to "honor thy father" has its limits.
New from New York Times bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick, Beneath the Bending Skies is a sweeping story of hospitality, destiny, and the bonds of family.
***
"Readers will enjoy the sweeping landscapes, complex father-daughter relationship, and the unassuming power and relevancy of this wonderfully multilayered novel."-- Booklist
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 6, 2022
89 people are currently reading
4235 people want to read
About the author
Jane Kirkpatrick
68 books1,051 followersKirkpatrick brings us a story of one woman's restoration from personal grief to the meaning of community."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
October 14, 2022
I have read quite a few books by Jane Kirkpatrick over the years but not all of them yet.
What I absolutely love about them is the authenticity of them. You won't get the run around with her books or a bunch of fluff. Many of her books, like this one are based on true events and people.
They are so well researched and written you'll understand what she is talking about.
The characters just come alive the way she writes about them.
I loved Mollie and Peter's story. The book had many layers to it, happy and emotional times.
At this time period in this historical novel a woman and a wife as well has really no say and has to listen to her father/husband.
Mollie is a strong woman who has really gone through a lot but yet she still perseveres.
The story is uplifting, Mollie changes with her situations trying to stay ever optimistic and encouraging.
The setting and character development are phenomenal . The author knows how to do historical perfectly and is one of my absolute favorite writers of this genre.
Highly recommended!
What I absolutely love about them is the authenticity of them. You won't get the run around with her books or a bunch of fluff. Many of her books, like this one are based on true events and people.
They are so well researched and written you'll understand what she is talking about.
The characters just come alive the way she writes about them.
I loved Mollie and Peter's story. The book had many layers to it, happy and emotional times.
At this time period in this historical novel a woman and a wife as well has really no say and has to listen to her father/husband.
Mollie is a strong woman who has really gone through a lot but yet she still perseveres.
The story is uplifting, Mollie changes with her situations trying to stay ever optimistic and encouraging.
The setting and character development are phenomenal . The author knows how to do historical perfectly and is one of my absolute favorite writers of this genre.
Highly recommended!
September 7, 2022
With an easy style that evokes the late 1800s and the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana, the author takes us on the life journey of Mollie Sheehan. This was such an authentic book, a memoir of sorts. I love stories based on real people and Ms. Kirkpatrick did extensive research and used the actual accounts to bring Molly and her many struggles to life.
Molly learned to be *agile* or flexible as situations came up. She was content wherever God placed her. “I don’t think we’re put here to do great things in life. But to do small things bravely and with gratitude and kindness.” I like the greeting she gave to all who came to her home “What does your heart desire.” She learned real hospitality rather than putting on a false front.
We would do well to emulate Molly and see our worth as God sees us and be constant and steady in our faith walk. To be able to bloom wherever God places us and make a difference.
I always learn something new from historical fiction and liked that Molly and her husband were friends to the Indians as well as being agents to oversee their welfare.
This story tugged at my heart as I watched Molly and her family through the many hardships, but I rejoiced with her in her accomplishments and was happy that she married her true love.
This is a book that should not be missed.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Reads program. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Molly learned to be *agile* or flexible as situations came up. She was content wherever God placed her. “I don’t think we’re put here to do great things in life. But to do small things bravely and with gratitude and kindness.” I like the greeting she gave to all who came to her home “What does your heart desire.” She learned real hospitality rather than putting on a false front.
We would do well to emulate Molly and see our worth as God sees us and be constant and steady in our faith walk. To be able to bloom wherever God places us and make a difference.
I always learn something new from historical fiction and liked that Molly and her husband were friends to the Indians as well as being agents to oversee their welfare.
This story tugged at my heart as I watched Molly and her family through the many hardships, but I rejoiced with her in her accomplishments and was happy that she married her true love.
This is a book that should not be missed.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Reads program. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
September 7, 2022
Beneath the Bending Skies by Jane Kirkpatrick is the beautiful, uplifting story of Mollie Ronan, that is so atmospheric – it will captivate your heart. Based on a true pioneer of the 1800s, Mary Catherine “Mollie” Sheehan Ronan was born in 1852 and died in 1940. Told in first person, Jane Kirkpatrick does a phenomenal job bringing Mollie’s story to life in the pages of this fascinating Christian historical fiction.
Lovers of historical fiction, prairie settings, the gold rush time period, details surrounding Native American culture and learning all about a notable historical woman will love this story!
We start the first half story off with Mollie at 6 years old in the year 1858 when her mother passes away. Mollie and her father move to Colorado, and he leaves her for long time with another family, with Mollie not knowing where he went or if he will return.
When he does return after some time, he has a new wife and child, Anne and Kate. Anne is a very kind and gentle woman that Mollie grows to love her as her “Ma Anne”. Just as they begin settling down as a family, they end up moving to Montana after dealing with some difficult times. Her father is following work during the gold rush period, so they continue to pack and move multiple times.
Mollie finds true love in Peter Ronan, however her father completely disapproves of their marriage as she is too young to marry him. Several years go by and Mollie ultimately defies her father’s wishes and realizes that the command to “honor thy father” truly has its limits. Mollie’s father lives in a fairytale – he never wants to let his daughter go and Mollie never feels like she is enough for him. She found her courage to stand up for herself and go her own way.
The remaining half of the book focuses on Mollie and Peter’s life together as husband and wife, as they start their family together in in the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana in the late 1800s.
This is a very character driven and engaging story filled with history and culture. I loved the characters, the different cultural backgrounds we got to see and how God moved in this family throughout everything they went through.
Mollie was my favorite character as she was such an inspiration to so many others and helped so many people in the community she lived it – she showed the love of God and I loved that about her. She didn’t back down in what she believed in and was such a strong-willed Christian character that I think we can all learn from. I loved seeing her as a teacher, mother, wife, daughter, and friend.
Overall, a beautiful historical filled story that kept me engaged and intrigued me to the very last page. Jane Kirkpatrick truly does her historical research in this story, and I can’t wait to read more of her books. If you love a very detailed historical read, you will enjoy this. Thank you to Baker Publishing and Revell for providing me with a copy of Beneath the Bending Skies to honestly read and review.
Lovers of historical fiction, prairie settings, the gold rush time period, details surrounding Native American culture and learning all about a notable historical woman will love this story!
We start the first half story off with Mollie at 6 years old in the year 1858 when her mother passes away. Mollie and her father move to Colorado, and he leaves her for long time with another family, with Mollie not knowing where he went or if he will return.
When he does return after some time, he has a new wife and child, Anne and Kate. Anne is a very kind and gentle woman that Mollie grows to love her as her “Ma Anne”. Just as they begin settling down as a family, they end up moving to Montana after dealing with some difficult times. Her father is following work during the gold rush period, so they continue to pack and move multiple times.
Mollie finds true love in Peter Ronan, however her father completely disapproves of their marriage as she is too young to marry him. Several years go by and Mollie ultimately defies her father’s wishes and realizes that the command to “honor thy father” truly has its limits. Mollie’s father lives in a fairytale – he never wants to let his daughter go and Mollie never feels like she is enough for him. She found her courage to stand up for herself and go her own way.
The remaining half of the book focuses on Mollie and Peter’s life together as husband and wife, as they start their family together in in the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana in the late 1800s.
This is a very character driven and engaging story filled with history and culture. I loved the characters, the different cultural backgrounds we got to see and how God moved in this family throughout everything they went through.
Mollie was my favorite character as she was such an inspiration to so many others and helped so many people in the community she lived it – she showed the love of God and I loved that about her. She didn’t back down in what she believed in and was such a strong-willed Christian character that I think we can all learn from. I loved seeing her as a teacher, mother, wife, daughter, and friend.
Overall, a beautiful historical filled story that kept me engaged and intrigued me to the very last page. Jane Kirkpatrick truly does her historical research in this story, and I can’t wait to read more of her books. If you love a very detailed historical read, you will enjoy this. Thank you to Baker Publishing and Revell for providing me with a copy of Beneath the Bending Skies to honestly read and review.
September 2, 2022
I haven't read a Jane Kirkpatrick novel in quite some time, and this book definitely reminded me what a wonderful writer she is. With a great deal of historical research, she brings to life the time period of western expansion and the horrible treatment of the Indians by the whites as they confiscate property on the Indian reservations for their own settlement. But in the midst of all this appeared some Indian agents who had a true love for the native Americans and their plight. This story focuses on Mary "Mollie" Catherine Fitzgibbon and her husband, Peter Ronan, a strong Christian and Indian Agent.
This story had a great many characters, and Kirkpatrick's cast of characters prior to the first chapter definitely helped keep them straight although I felt they were introduced slowly enough throughout the novel that I didn't have that much trouble. Everyone of the characters, especially Mary and her family were brought vividly to life, along with Peter. The plot line flowed beautifully from Mary's young life through her marriage and later life. Peter was such a strong main character that even after all his early mishaps in life you saw how he grew as a man, a leader, and a husband. Peter and Mary played such an incredible role in helping the 3 tribes that were under Peter's jurisdiction as an Indian Agent in Montana. Their love, care, and connection with Indians went above and beyond most Indian agents and their spouses.
Kirkpatrick's faith thread wound its way beautifully throughout the entire story particularly in the dissension between Mary and her father with his possessive control of her life.
Overall, a wonderful read for anyone who likes historical fiction that focuses on the time period of western expansion and the plight of the Native Americans.
This story had a great many characters, and Kirkpatrick's cast of characters prior to the first chapter definitely helped keep them straight although I felt they were introduced slowly enough throughout the novel that I didn't have that much trouble. Everyone of the characters, especially Mary and her family were brought vividly to life, along with Peter. The plot line flowed beautifully from Mary's young life through her marriage and later life. Peter was such a strong main character that even after all his early mishaps in life you saw how he grew as a man, a leader, and a husband. Peter and Mary played such an incredible role in helping the 3 tribes that were under Peter's jurisdiction as an Indian Agent in Montana. Their love, care, and connection with Indians went above and beyond most Indian agents and their spouses.
Kirkpatrick's faith thread wound its way beautifully throughout the entire story particularly in the dissension between Mary and her father with his possessive control of her life.
Overall, a wonderful read for anyone who likes historical fiction that focuses on the time period of western expansion and the plight of the Native Americans.
June 29, 2022
Kirkpatrick once again has written a great story. I love her stories. They never disappoint me because I generally learn some great stuff from them. Molly Sheehan is a fascinating lady and one I feel that is way before her time. I really feel that I can connect with the disappointment between father and daughter a lot! Some of their feelings really hit home for me and brought back some memories that I'd long forgotten about. A lot of history and historical facts that I fell in love with. Molly's adventure soon became my own. The romance between Peter and Molly was just perfect in my opinion. Loved it! Also in my opinion I'd definitely consider this Women's fiction. Not much in the way of Christian at all but still a delightful book. I couldn't put it down!. Kirkpatrick has a way of doing that to me for sure and certain. I found myself looking up some of the places that she wrote about like The Jocko Valley. 5 stars for well written and wonderful characters such as Molly and her father. I even enjoyed getting to know the secondary characters because in my opinion they are what made this story This book left my heart feeling full and satisfied. I love that after a good read My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 2, 2022
Beneath the Bending Skies was a delight to behold. My first book that I have read by Jane Kirkpatrick and it won't be the last.
The author did an excellent job with the settings and character development, I loved having a story where we follow a significant part of one person's life.
Molly is left on the doorstep of strangers as her father travels for his business, leaving her for months at a time. He finally comes to bring her to a home he has made, but he has made it with a new wife and a new baby sister.
As they move from town to town together they finally settle in the small town of Helena, where Molly meets one of her fathers friends Peter. Peter and Molly end up falling in love, even though her father forbids it.
Peter and Molly wait years to be reunited and Peter gets a job being the liaison between the Indians and government. Where new friends and new family is found, and struggles abound.
I loved the character of Molly and how through it all she really stayed true to her heart and prayed and thought out each step. She wanted to obey her father, but learned that she needed to take her own path as well.
Thank you to #bakerpublishing and #netgalley for an ARC copy of this book to review. I just reviewed Beneath the Bending Skies by Jane Kirkpatrick. #BeneaththeBendingSkies #NetGalley
The author did an excellent job with the settings and character development, I loved having a story where we follow a significant part of one person's life.
Molly is left on the doorstep of strangers as her father travels for his business, leaving her for months at a time. He finally comes to bring her to a home he has made, but he has made it with a new wife and a new baby sister.
As they move from town to town together they finally settle in the small town of Helena, where Molly meets one of her fathers friends Peter. Peter and Molly end up falling in love, even though her father forbids it.
Peter and Molly wait years to be reunited and Peter gets a job being the liaison between the Indians and government. Where new friends and new family is found, and struggles abound.
I loved the character of Molly and how through it all she really stayed true to her heart and prayed and thought out each step. She wanted to obey her father, but learned that she needed to take her own path as well.
Thank you to #bakerpublishing and #netgalley for an ARC copy of this book to review. I just reviewed Beneath the Bending Skies by Jane Kirkpatrick. #BeneaththeBendingSkies #NetGalley
July 15, 2022
This is one of the dullest books I've ever read. I did read it all the way through hoping it would get better, but it just didn't. Jane Kirkpatrick takes about real people and creates a narrative novel about their lives. Mollie Sheehan Ronan's story reads like a daily diary without much emotion or thought.
Mollie narrates the story beginning when she's about fourteen through most of her adulthood. She moves around a lot with her father, stepmother, and half-sister, runs an "establishment" (eatery) with her stepmother in several of their locations until they ultimately moved to California. While they were living in Montana, Mollie meets and falls in love with Peter Ronan, but her father refuses to accept their love and holds the "Honor your father and mother" over Mollie's head so that she can't marry him. It takes four years before he gives permission, but not his blessing. Finally Peter comes to California to collect Mollie as his bride.
There were characters Jane introduced but didn't really give a good resolution to their disappearance in the account of the story. Granted they weren't characters that would be universally liked, but their passing through the book was just a blip and gone.
Jane has set up the book to where a sequel could be written about Lizzie Custer, who's life and attitudes would be more interesting, in my opinion.
I will give this two stars because there are parts to be liked, Mollie is a likable character and the friends she makes on the reservation are truly special. They are the redeeming features of the book.
Most of Jane's books are based on historical characters and I can find no fault in her research of them. Some of her books are more interesting than others because of the characters she bases them on. This review is solely my OPINION and that just means this wasn't the book for me.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. The opinions expressed are totally my own.
Mollie narrates the story beginning when she's about fourteen through most of her adulthood. She moves around a lot with her father, stepmother, and half-sister, runs an "establishment" (eatery) with her stepmother in several of their locations until they ultimately moved to California. While they were living in Montana, Mollie meets and falls in love with Peter Ronan, but her father refuses to accept their love and holds the "Honor your father and mother" over Mollie's head so that she can't marry him. It takes four years before he gives permission, but not his blessing. Finally Peter comes to California to collect Mollie as his bride.
There were characters Jane introduced but didn't really give a good resolution to their disappearance in the account of the story. Granted they weren't characters that would be universally liked, but their passing through the book was just a blip and gone.
Jane has set up the book to where a sequel could be written about Lizzie Custer, who's life and attitudes would be more interesting, in my opinion.
I will give this two stars because there are parts to be liked, Mollie is a likable character and the friends she makes on the reservation are truly special. They are the redeeming features of the book.
Most of Jane's books are based on historical characters and I can find no fault in her research of them. Some of her books are more interesting than others because of the characters she bases them on. This review is solely my OPINION and that just means this wasn't the book for me.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. The opinions expressed are totally my own.
October 12, 2022
Mollie Sheehan finds herself torn between pleasing her father and following her heart. As a woman in mid nineteenth century Montana she doesn't have a lot of choices. Especially since her father is constantly moving his family all over the countryside chasing new dreams and business ventures. She, her stepmother, and younger siblings are dutiful and always try to make the best of each situation, but it can be challenging having to start fresh so often. Mollie longs for stability and when she finds Peter Ronan, a journalist with a big heart she is instantly smitten. The only problem is he is her father's friend and she knows he won't bless their union. As expected he forbids their relationship and decides to move his family far away, this time to California. Will their love survive the years? Beneath the Bending Skies is a fictional account of a real woman, which explains why their isn't really a plot to be found. It just describes Mollie's life from the the age of 6 up to her last child (and boy she has a lot of those!). The biggest theme of the novel is trying to win her curmudgeon father over, and that's it. The rest is just the story of one woman as she ages and finds love.
November 8, 2022
One thing I love about Jane Kirkpatrick's books is that you really get a close look at the injustices and racism towards the native tribes of the western USA. This particular books shows what it was like as an agent working in Montana with many of the Flathead, Sahish, and Nez Perce tribes during the time of Chief Josephs rebellion. I love that the author bases her books on original sources written by women living in the era and time.
This book had some great quotes in it--I wrote down a couple. One of my favorites was by the character Mollie. I don't think we're put here to do great things. But to do small things bravely and with gratitude and kindness. This is such a beautiful outlook on how every human should be living their life!
If I could, I'd give this book a solid 4.5⭐.
This book had some great quotes in it--I wrote down a couple. One of my favorites was by the character Mollie. I don't think we're put here to do great things. But to do small things bravely and with gratitude and kindness. This is such a beautiful outlook on how every human should be living their life!
If I could, I'd give this book a solid 4.5⭐.
September 16, 2022
A demanding father and a dutiful daughter. No matter how hard Mollie Sheehan tries she never seems to meet his criteria. Not a lot of options are available to a girl in 1860s Montana. Her father is gone for long periods of time and her stepmother keeps the family together by doing what must be done.
When Peter Ronan and Mollie fall in love, her father forbids the marriage and moves the family to California forbidding them from having *any* contact. But love prevails despite her father’s determination to control her life — for the rest of her life.
My review …
Who should NOT read this book?
⋇ If the reader had a parent who controlled their lives not only growing up but into adulthood, that reader will find this a difficult story as it churns up difficult memories.
⋇ If the reader tried for years to “please” their parent, especially a father, and/or wanted to hear positive phrases such as “you did good” or “I’m proud of you” — but never did. Mollie’s interaction with her father can also bring up bad memories.
I have never started a review with the above but Mollie’s father just infuriated me! And yes, some memories that rarely come to mind. Not only did he constantly require Mollie to “honor thy father” which meant doing only what HE wanted her to do. He also never thanked his second wife, Mollie called Ma Anne, for anything she did. Right in front of her, he would glorify his beloved first wife. Ma Anne kept that family glued together while he was supposedly gone making money.
Research, research, research.
The author, Jane Kirkpatrick, put hours and hours into the research of Beneath the Bending Skies which is based on a real person. Be sure to read the “Author’s Notes” at the end of the book.
The “history” covered in the book was interesting. The book wasn’t, at least not for me. The most engaging character was Shows No Anger, a Salish Kootenai woman who became Mollie’s good friend when they lived at the Jocko (Indian) Agency in Montana.
Ms. Kirkpatrick is a prolific author of historical novels. And this book is already receiving high praise. Some readers will love it. Not only the historic aspects but the characters. The book just wasn’t a good fit for this reviewer. I sympathized with Mollie. I liked Peter. But Mollie never quite felt “real” to me. I give the book a three-star rating.
SO… if you do not fit the two bullets, you might find this to be a perfect book for you.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Beneath the Bending Skies via NetGalley from the publisher, Revell. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Rating: 3 stars.
#BeneaththeBendingSkies #NetGalley #JaneKirkpatrick
When Peter Ronan and Mollie fall in love, her father forbids the marriage and moves the family to California forbidding them from having *any* contact. But love prevails despite her father’s determination to control her life — for the rest of her life.
My review …
Who should NOT read this book?
⋇ If the reader had a parent who controlled their lives not only growing up but into adulthood, that reader will find this a difficult story as it churns up difficult memories.
⋇ If the reader tried for years to “please” their parent, especially a father, and/or wanted to hear positive phrases such as “you did good” or “I’m proud of you” — but never did. Mollie’s interaction with her father can also bring up bad memories.
I have never started a review with the above but Mollie’s father just infuriated me! And yes, some memories that rarely come to mind. Not only did he constantly require Mollie to “honor thy father” which meant doing only what HE wanted her to do. He also never thanked his second wife, Mollie called Ma Anne, for anything she did. Right in front of her, he would glorify his beloved first wife. Ma Anne kept that family glued together while he was supposedly gone making money.
Research, research, research.
The author, Jane Kirkpatrick, put hours and hours into the research of Beneath the Bending Skies which is based on a real person. Be sure to read the “Author’s Notes” at the end of the book.
The “history” covered in the book was interesting. The book wasn’t, at least not for me. The most engaging character was Shows No Anger, a Salish Kootenai woman who became Mollie’s good friend when they lived at the Jocko (Indian) Agency in Montana.
Ms. Kirkpatrick is a prolific author of historical novels. And this book is already receiving high praise. Some readers will love it. Not only the historic aspects but the characters. The book just wasn’t a good fit for this reviewer. I sympathized with Mollie. I liked Peter. But Mollie never quite felt “real” to me. I give the book a three-star rating.
SO… if you do not fit the two bullets, you might find this to be a perfect book for you.
I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Beneath the Bending Skies via NetGalley from the publisher, Revell. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Rating: 3 stars.
#BeneaththeBendingSkies #NetGalley #JaneKirkpatrick
September 29, 2022
I always look forward to reading the latest book by Jane Kirkpatrick. She writes terrific historical fiction. I love how detailed she is with her writing and the extensive research she does to pen her stories. This book was really interesting and moved a bit all over the place. The main story line focuses on Mollie Sheehan and her growing up years and beyond. She moved quite a bit in her lifetime and it is always interesting to me to see why a family moved and what their motivation was. My favorite part of the book is toward the end because I love the history surrounding the Native Americans. This book moves at a slower pace but that tends to be the case with heavily detailed historical novels and I doesn't bother me. I know that this book would be difficult for some to fully get into but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The many settings are wonderful and the based on real life characters I thought were very well written. I highly recommend to those that love history.
Five Stars.
"I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
Five Stars.
"I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
August 13, 2022
Beneath the Bending Skies was the first book I've read by Jane Kirkpatrick. This book was based on the life of Mollie Ronan, who's life's journey was nothing short of extraordinary. I was captivated by the many places she'd lived, the ups and downs of her life and God's hand moving over her, protecting her and her family through it all. The story was chocked full of history, cultures from all different backgrounds, triumphs and sorrows and one of my favorites: family. The family ties pulled me in most of all. God gave her an amazing family, not just in blood but in the heartstrings that bound her to friends, no matter race or culture. It was hard to put down this book and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves seeing God's grace moving through even the worst circumstances to bring hope to people's lives.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 14, 2022
We are currently reading about the struggles of the Indigenous Peoples in our homeschool and this book really complimented the story. It is so necessary for us to read the history of what happened and how the white people treated the people that were on the land first. This was such an interesting story and the writing is beyond amazing. I really enjoyed the characters of Mollie and Peter and loved how Mollie opened up her home to so many people and showed them God's love.
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
October 27, 2022
Jane Kirkpatrick is an engaging storyteller. In Beneath the Bending Skies she tells the story of Mollie Sheehan - a true story, based on several accounts - made fascinating and readable by the author's writing talent. Growing up, Mollie loved her father so much - even more because her mother died while Mollie was very young and her father was all she had. She was disappointed when he remarried, but after a time realized that her stepmother was more than she could ever have hoped for as a support and encouragement. Despite how much Mollie loved her father, it seemed she could never please him, at least unless she followed his every dictate. But he was a freighter, and was gone from home for months and even years at a time, so Mollie became independent in many ways, as she had to in order to survive in the rough mining towns of the old west. But things came to a head when she fell in love with one of her father's friends, Peter Ronan, a newspaperman. Mollie was only 16 but both she and Peter felt that their love was true. Mollie's father was incensed and separated the lovers by moving Mollie and the family to California and forbidding correspondence between them. But even though four years intervened, their love remained strong.
At 20, Mollie broke free of her father's control (although all of her life, she respected him and tried to please him as much as she was able) and married Peter Ronan. They headed into the mountains of Montana where Peter had been appointed the agent for several Indian tribes on a reservation. The true story of how Mollie and Peter welcomed their Indian neighbors and became trustworthy friends to them is fascinating reading. Highly recommended for those who love reading about the history of the West.
At 20, Mollie broke free of her father's control (although all of her life, she respected him and tried to please him as much as she was able) and married Peter Ronan. They headed into the mountains of Montana where Peter had been appointed the agent for several Indian tribes on a reservation. The true story of how Mollie and Peter welcomed their Indian neighbors and became trustworthy friends to them is fascinating reading. Highly recommended for those who love reading about the history of the West.
February 18, 2023
This was very good, really enjoyed the story and characters.
October 8, 2022
3.5 stars ✨ Beneath the Bending Skies first captured my attention because of its title and its beautiful cover! I love book covers with sunsets on the them.😍 While I enjoyed the first half of this novel, sadly I started to lose interested through the last half. This a slower-paced, character-driven novel set during the late 1800s.
I enjoyed the prairie setting of this story as well as some of the details of life during this time period. Prairie settings and pioneer stories are some of my very favorites so I did enjoy that aspect to the story. But after the half way point whenever the chapters started skipping a few months/years, I lost interest. I also felt like the plot kept coming back to her father not accepting her marriage which got old after a while.
Despite this not being a favorite, I did enjoy it for the most part. I would recommend it to those who enjoy stories set during the 1800s that are slower-paced and character-driven.
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for review! All opinions expressed in this review are my own
I enjoyed the prairie setting of this story as well as some of the details of life during this time period. Prairie settings and pioneer stories are some of my very favorites so I did enjoy that aspect to the story. But after the half way point whenever the chapters started skipping a few months/years, I lost interest. I also felt like the plot kept coming back to her father not accepting her marriage which got old after a while.
Despite this not being a favorite, I did enjoy it for the most part. I would recommend it to those who enjoy stories set during the 1800s that are slower-paced and character-driven.
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for review! All opinions expressed in this review are my own
July 28, 2022
When it comes to historical fiction, Jane Kirkpatrick does a wonderful job. She finds a notable historical person and writes a novel that brings that person and family to life. In each of her historical novels, it's evident that she has done a tremendous amount of research.
The person this time is Mary Catherine "Mollie" Sheehan Ronan who lived in Montana in the mid- 1800s. She is divided over whether to obey her father or follow her heart's desire to marry the man she loves. The novel follows her through the years as a young girl who loses her mother but eventually gets a loving stepmother, finding the courage to stand up to her father, then on to her marriage and family life on the Flathead Reservation where her husband is a federal agent. There are many interesting side stories regarding Mollie's education, family life as they moved from place to place, what life was like in Montana during that era, and the various family relationships. I especially enjoyed reading about her positive dealings with the Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d' Oreille tribes. She was a strong, positive, Christian woman who struggled to find her place in the world.
I was sent a free Advanced Reader's Copy from Revell Books, via LibraryThing, in exchange for my honest opinion.
The person this time is Mary Catherine "Mollie" Sheehan Ronan who lived in Montana in the mid- 1800s. She is divided over whether to obey her father or follow her heart's desire to marry the man she loves. The novel follows her through the years as a young girl who loses her mother but eventually gets a loving stepmother, finding the courage to stand up to her father, then on to her marriage and family life on the Flathead Reservation where her husband is a federal agent. There are many interesting side stories regarding Mollie's education, family life as they moved from place to place, what life was like in Montana during that era, and the various family relationships. I especially enjoyed reading about her positive dealings with the Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d' Oreille tribes. She was a strong, positive, Christian woman who struggled to find her place in the world.
I was sent a free Advanced Reader's Copy from Revell Books, via LibraryThing, in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 25, 2022
Classic Jane Kirkpatrick story with an in-depth look into life as it used to be. Jane brings history alive as few can. Beneath the Bending Skies adds an extra layer. It digs into the relationships - both family and interracial - and how expectations can hinder or help how we relate to each other. Well worth reading.
January 24, 2023
Historical fiction fans who enjoy stories rich with historical research will love this story.
The story follows the life of Mollie through the different stages of her life and focusses on her relationships with various people who influenced her life. From her overbearing father to her loving and caring stepmom and a possible love interest.
I enjoyed how the author showed the way the main characters interacted with the native Indians, learned to embrace their customs, and became part of their world.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
The story follows the life of Mollie through the different stages of her life and focusses on her relationships with various people who influenced her life. From her overbearing father to her loving and caring stepmom and a possible love interest.
I enjoyed how the author showed the way the main characters interacted with the native Indians, learned to embrace their customs, and became part of their world.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
February 21, 2025
I enjoyed the book a lot more after I realized it was based on real people (I was more than halfway through it). It dragged on, but it did seem authentic.
July 21, 2022
5 stars, Delightful Story of Familial Ties
BENEATH THE BENDING SKIES
by Jane Kirkpatrick
I love the feeling that the author Jane Kirkpatrick is able to stir up and draw me headlong into her stories. She takes a little true history and weaves a beautiful story around it.
Mollie promised her mother she'd care for her father James, right before her beloved mother died. Her father married another woman Anne and it falls to Mollie to take care of her new family since her father was gone a lot of the time on extended business trips.
Mollie falls in love with Peter, her father's business partner. James feels betrayed when the two tell him of their wish to marry. Mollie is heartbroken when her father tells her she can't marry Peter and she has to stay home and take care of him. When James tells Mollie she must do what the Bible teaches, to "obey your father," Mollie is flabbergasted that her father is refusing to let her go so that she can start a family of her own.
Later on, Mollie lives on the Flathead Indian Reservation. That is my favorite part of this novel. I love the new friends she makes and the new things she learns how to do, while she's there.
Highly recommend. I like how Ms. Kirkpatrick includes the pronunciations of Indian tribes, so you know how they should be pronounced, like Salish= [Sail-ish], Kootenai= [Coo-ten-i], and Pend d'Oreille=[Pon-door-ray].
#favoritebooks #favoriteauthor #newrealease2022 #revellbooks @bakerbookhouse #bakerbookhouse
With much gratefulness and enthusiasm, I received a complimentary copy of #beneaththebendingskies from @revellbooks I was under no obligation to post a review. #1860stimeperiod #historicalfiction #FlatheadIndians #Montana #NezPerceIndians #inspyfiction #coverlove #ChristianFiction #inspirationalfiction #janekirkpatrick @janekirkpatrick
July 12, 2022
When a book's title has the words "Bending Skies" in it, expectations are very high. Jane Kirkpatrick has delivered on that promise with this novel. Delightful phrases like "bringing a bit of spring inside" and "the flowers marveled at their surroundings" are scattered throughout this book. You find yourself sighing over the imagery, sorrowing with the heroine as she endures trials in her life, cheering as Mollie finds bliss and contentment in everyday life.
Jane consistently finds fascinating, historical people and events about which to write. She details their lives so intimately you can't help but fall in love with them. She writes about people who were essential at critical times in the expansion of this great country in which we live.
Thank you to Revell Books and LibraryThing for sending me this ARC in a giveaway. I am grateful to be able to have an early copy of this book. This is my honest review of this book. I will reread it and mark it up, underlining everything that speaks to my heart.
Jane consistently finds fascinating, historical people and events about which to write. She details their lives so intimately you can't help but fall in love with them. She writes about people who were essential at critical times in the expansion of this great country in which we live.
Thank you to Revell Books and LibraryThing for sending me this ARC in a giveaway. I am grateful to be able to have an early copy of this book. This is my honest review of this book. I will reread it and mark it up, underlining everything that speaks to my heart.
March 3, 2024
4.5 Stars: I knew nothing going into this book and I enjoyed following Mollie Sheehan's story as told in a personal journal way (similar to Little House on the Prairie.) However, at the beginning, I expected it to be mostly a love story as we see Peter and Mollie develop a relationship with some pretty dramatic twists and a very stubborn father. So once we got midway (aka she got married), I wondered what happened to the plot, where the story was going to go, and what the point of the book actually was. This part honestly dragged on a bit and I was wondering if I wanted to keep reading/ finish it. It was then that I learned that this book is based on the true story and life of Mollie Ronan. That was fascinating. And then the book made so much more sense to me as a reader because the story is her life, her feelings, her trials. It is a million little stories in one lifetime that flow together to create a bigger narrative. I finished the book in awe and wishing there was more - soaking up the author's note at the end filled with all the historical facts. Reading the life of a historical figure who was actually just a normal girl living a faithful life, not someone who was trying to leave a mark on history or even doing big things, was encouraging. She was sensitive to her role as a daughter and sister, loved and supported her husband, raised her children, engaged her neighbors, and was faithful to the Lord. She lived a very simple life that had a great impact on those around her - and that is an inspiration. Our mundane, everyday faithfulness has ripples we may not even see or know in our lifetime. I can't explain it, but once I finished this book, I realized I liked it more than I did while reading it.
PS: The audiobook helped this story come alive. I recommend listening to it if you can!
PS: The audiobook helped this story come alive. I recommend listening to it if you can!
October 14, 2022
Okay this definitely was not what I was expecting from this book. I have a hard time reading books that read like a diary as they lose my interest and this was how this book was. It took me way too long to get into it and I can't say I was fully immersed into it. The topic was a bit way too heavy for me and it felt like it didn't quite flow at times. That being said I have heard wonderful things about this author and her writing and in that aspect she did not disappoint. You can tell that she did her research and this being a true story she definitely kept to the time period and was very detailed in aspects of her story.
This story may have possible triggers for those that may have been in parental controlling households. Mollie is a like able character but your heart definitely goes out to her situation. Thank goodness for Peter who brought something different to the story and Mollie's life.
Overall this story was not for me, however if you enjoy American history and the first person narrative then this story is for you and I am sure you will enjoy it immensely.
I received a copy of this book through the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This story may have possible triggers for those that may have been in parental controlling households. Mollie is a like able character but your heart definitely goes out to her situation. Thank goodness for Peter who brought something different to the story and Mollie's life.
Overall this story was not for me, however if you enjoy American history and the first person narrative then this story is for you and I am sure you will enjoy it immensely.
I received a copy of this book through the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 4, 2022
Jane Kirkpatrick is a new-to-me author and I loved this book. Well, I had a hard time figuring out if I was loving or "hating" the characters in the book ... which to me is a characteristic of a great book. I really felt for most of the characters portrayed. There was no real "villain" and no real "hero." They all had their pain and hurts to deal with and the rough decisions that had to be made and while (many) mistakes were made, there was a lot of love shown too. This truly was a great glimpse into the difficult decisions that had to be made in the olden days and how feelings were always top priority when survival was at stake. Despite the dysfunction that was evident throughout the family, there was also a lot of love and chances for redemption, grace, and lasting relationships. Yes, I will definitely be reading more from Jane Kirkpatrick. She knows how to make characters stick with her readers long after "the end."
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to give it a positive review. All opinions listed are my honest opinions.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to give it a positive review. All opinions listed are my honest opinions.
October 11, 2022
Beneath the Bending Skies, by Jane Kirkpatrick, is a Christian historical fiction story based on the true person, Mollie Sheehan. The story is based mainly in Montana in the 1860’s. This story is well written and easy to visualize with good characters. The story shows the depth of research the author has done.
Mollie’s mother past very young. Her father left her behind in other’s care, including his new wife, for long months at a time. While he was gone her step-mother allowed the family more enjoyments than he did. At just 14, Mollie met and fell in love with her father’s friend, Peter. When her father found out he disapproved and moved the family away.
This is a nice story that shows the type of relationship Mollie and her father have. He is gone for very long stretches of time yet he is very controlling and Mollie does what he wants her to. Even though the story is somewhat slow moving, I enjoyed reading it. I admire the depth of love between Mollie and Peter and how it survived the distance apart. I liked the interaction Mollie has with one of the sisters in California when she was thinking of becoming a nun. I especially enjoyed the part of the story of them working with the Flathead reservation in Montana.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book through the Revell Reads Bloggers Program, this is my honest review.
Mollie’s mother past very young. Her father left her behind in other’s care, including his new wife, for long months at a time. While he was gone her step-mother allowed the family more enjoyments than he did. At just 14, Mollie met and fell in love with her father’s friend, Peter. When her father found out he disapproved and moved the family away.
This is a nice story that shows the type of relationship Mollie and her father have. He is gone for very long stretches of time yet he is very controlling and Mollie does what he wants her to. Even though the story is somewhat slow moving, I enjoyed reading it. I admire the depth of love between Mollie and Peter and how it survived the distance apart. I liked the interaction Mollie has with one of the sisters in California when she was thinking of becoming a nun. I especially enjoyed the part of the story of them working with the Flathead reservation in Montana.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book through the Revell Reads Bloggers Program, this is my honest review.
June 28, 2023
Wow, I don't think I realized while I was reading this that it is almost all true! I really loved it because 1) I love the homesteaders who braved the wild west and all the crazy trials they endured, and 2) I love Montana - we have spent a lot of time over several trips visiting many many parts of Montana. I recognized so many of the places she wrote about in the book and could see myself there. Mollie is a brave and strong woman who I admire. And only at the very end of the book, did I realize that the town of Ronan, MT, which is the first destination in Montana I ever went to for a friend's wedding back in 2017, was named after Mollie & her husband! Plus my mom lived a lot of her life in California, near San Juan Capistrano, and I grew up being very familiar with that area and the stories she told about SJC. It all felt very nostalgic in a way.
October 1, 2022
I am always drawn to books by Jane Kirkpatrick because they are based on true stories. She pens novels with such fantastic historical research and depth that brings these stories to life. The pace of this novel is a little slow, but that really allowed me to get to know the characters, history, and setting well, and I liked the detail the author provided. I was also impressed with the great spiritual growth and truths in this novel and found my own faith strengthened simply by reading and reflecting. The journey that Mollie embarks on with her romance instead develops her faith in a real and raw way. The cover to this novel is gorgeous and is but a small reflection of the wonderful words that lie beneath. I highly recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
September 13, 2022
Based on the true story of Mary Ronan and the work her and her husband did with the Jocko Agency in the state of Montana. A husband and wife team that was a liaison between the miners/settlers and the many Indian tribes of that area.
Mary's story starts with the death of her mother and her father bringing his family to Denver, than on to Montana. Kirkpatrick always narrates her novels with great detail that you can see the Mountains and the struggles that were prevalent. The narration is centered around Mary's relationship to her father. Her dying mother spoke to her of being a good and loyal daughter and she fought hard for that but seemed to miss the mark. She desired the blessing of her father but always felt that it was lacking. That her father purposely kept that from her. You begin to see the complication of their relationship and how it prepared her for marriage and working with the Indian nations.
I appreciated this complicated relationship and the insight it gave me with my own relationships. I also enjoyed the history lesson that Mary's story gave. Her determination, her grace, love for her husband and children and loyalty to friends. She was eager to learn about other cultures and the respect she gave was intentional. I very much enjoyed her story.
A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Mary's story starts with the death of her mother and her father bringing his family to Denver, than on to Montana. Kirkpatrick always narrates her novels with great detail that you can see the Mountains and the struggles that were prevalent. The narration is centered around Mary's relationship to her father. Her dying mother spoke to her of being a good and loyal daughter and she fought hard for that but seemed to miss the mark. She desired the blessing of her father but always felt that it was lacking. That her father purposely kept that from her. You begin to see the complication of their relationship and how it prepared her for marriage and working with the Indian nations.
I appreciated this complicated relationship and the insight it gave me with my own relationships. I also enjoyed the history lesson that Mary's story gave. Her determination, her grace, love for her husband and children and loyalty to friends. She was eager to learn about other cultures and the respect she gave was intentional. I very much enjoyed her story.
A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
September 5, 2022
Such an excellent book! I read Girl from the Gulches back in 2003, which this book is based upon.
Mollie has lost a lot in her life, but has found love with Peter, except her father is opposed to the marriage.
I love the setting Of Montana! I have such great respect for Peter Ronan, who truly was a rare man, especially as a reservation agent and his respect for the Native Americans.
Kirkpatrick pens such great historical fiction, it’s a pleasure to read her stories.
Thanks to Netgalley and Revell for the early copy.
Mollie has lost a lot in her life, but has found love with Peter, except her father is opposed to the marriage.
I love the setting Of Montana! I have such great respect for Peter Ronan, who truly was a rare man, especially as a reservation agent and his respect for the Native Americans.
Kirkpatrick pens such great historical fiction, it’s a pleasure to read her stories.
Thanks to Netgalley and Revell for the early copy.
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