Lauraine Snelling. Ruby. Bethany House. 2003

Set in the late 1800's, Ruby, is the story of two girls hearing from their long lost father as he was on his deathbed. They receive a letter promising an inheritance. These Christian girls board a train for the North Dakota Territory with no knowledge of what they are getting into.

Their father dies shortly after their arrival. They discover that he was running an establishment called "Dove House". In today's world, it would simply be called a brothel. Can you imagine the shock to these two young girls? Naturally, they start looking for the promised inheritance only to discover that "Dove's House" is it! Their father's mistress is trying to steal it from them but someone steps in to make sure that doesn't happen.

Snelling's writing style keeps you reading. This book was read late into the night because I simply couldn't put it down. Through it you'll learn much about life in the Dakota territory that won't be found in your American history books. The author proves she is an expert at making fictional characters come alive for the reader. It's almost impossible not to build a mental image of what the people look like and feel like you are actually part of their lives.

Here is a sample of the author's writing style:

Ruby would like to have been able to wave gaily and sing back to her precocious baby sister, "Yes. Me too," but she daren't take her eyes off the horse to which she clung with hands, feet, legs, posterior, ankles, toes, elbows, and any other portion of her anatomy with which she could maintain contact.

All but her stomach, which was ready to jump ship, or rather jump horse, at any moment.

"How are you doing up there?" Captain McHenry smiled over his shoulder as he led her mount gently around in a circle.

Is this really necessary? Surely a buggy would be terrer. Or walking. I'm a good walker. …. [page 152]

Can't you just picture this properly brought up Eastern girl on the back of a horse struggling to stay put?

Recommendation

Ruby is full of surprises. You'll discover that her father left his daughters a better treasure than just Dove House. Why not add this historical novel to your holiday wish list? It's sure to warm your heart on a cold winter's afternoon.

Copyrighted by Diana Pederson, 2005-2009