MORNING FOR DOVE

24 May

When Luke Anderson falls in love with Native American Dove Morris, he’s unprepared for the prejudice his parents level against her. Luke struggles with his feelings until a wildfire threatens the Morris ranch, and he saves Dove’s life. Will his mom and dad ever understand that love transcends boundaries of race and culture?

Martha Rogers is a former schoolteacher and English instructor with experience writing both fiction and nonfiction including Not on the Menu, a part of Sugar and Grits, a novella collection with DiAnn Mills, Janice Thompson, and Kathleen Y’Barbo. Rogers has a master’s degree in education and has worked as a secondary teacher and an instructor of English composition. She lives with her husband in Houston, Texas.

Martha’s website.

Martha’s blog.

My Impressions:

Set in 1897, Morning For Dove is a fun historical novel that brings to life small town America in the fast-growing Oklahoma Territory.  Settlers from all backgrounds are moving into Barton Creek, bringing with them both innovation and trouble.  The telegraph office is set to open.  A new railroad is being built to connect the town with the rest of America.  Residents can now enjoy a meal at the diner.  In addition, the Saloon is busy and farmers and ranchers are clashing over use of the land.  And young adults are spreading their wings, making decisions unpopular with their parents. There really isn’t anything new under the sun!

Luke Anderson sees, as if for the first time, Dove Morris at the wedding of a friend.  Dove has only had eyes for Luke for years.  But their young romance is complicated by Luke’s mother’s opposition.  As a small child, Bea Anderson lost all of her family in an Indian raid.   Dove is the half-Cherokee daughter of a prominent rancher.  Bea cannot find the strength or will to forget or forgive the horrors inflicted on her family.

Rogers does a good job in developing the characters of Bea and Dove. Throughout the novel, they become more aware of the needs and hurts of others.  Their view of God’s love is also challenged and expanded.

If you like a sweet romance and a visit to times gone by, pick up Morning For Dove.

First Chapter

(Thank you to Martha Rogers and Glass Road Public Relations for sending me a copy of this novel for review.  The opinions expressed are mine alone.)

To purchase Morning For Dove, click here.

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