 Author: Tracie Peterson Genre: Historical Romance Series: Love on the Santa Fe #3 Release Date: October 4, 2022 Will their faith prove to be stronger than their fear? Sensible and independent, Cassie Barton never anticipated being on her own at thirty-two. But after the death of her father and the marriage of her sister, she's found joy in her work as a seamstress. When a minor accident leaves her unable to sew, she decides to use her time to compile a book of stories about the men working on the Santa Fe Railroad. But worry begins to grow in San Marcial as Mexican revolutionaries set out to destroy the railroad--and put many lives in danger. With Europe at war and his longtime friend Cassie injured, railroad worker Brandon DuBarko is burdened by his troubles. He promised Cassie's father he would watch over her, but as their comfortable friendship slowly transforms into something deeper, he feels trapped by a secret from his youth. When a vengeful man reappears in Brandon's life, intent on causing conflict, Brandon must face his past before he can move forward. As the danger intensifies, Cassie and Brandon must rely on God to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of a brighter future.
 Reviewer: Nancy J. Brown Under the Starry Skies takes place in New Mexico, around 1916, during the Mexican Revolution and World War One, impacting many decisions made by the main characters. This story was interesting because there was a good amount of historical fact interwoven with the fictional account of Cassie Barton and Brandon Dubarko. Tracie told the story with her amazing talent from God, with a well-structured plot, personable characters, and engaging content. Cassie's dad worked for the Santa Fe Railroad, as did Brandon Dubarko. Brandon worked under Cassie's dad and promised to take care of her if anything should happen to him. Tracie Peterson's style of writing always keeps my attention, it's well structured, and most importantly, she seamlessly blends the true message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ into the plot. It's natural and is a good witness for both Christians and non-Christians. The villain in Under the Starry Skies was truly nefarious, and I wondered how the author would work out that part of the plot, which she did well. This clean, Christian historical fiction book tells a sweet story about a relationship that develops properly and with the Lord Jesus as a focal point in their decision making. One criticism is that I hope she tells more stories without including Christmas in them. I always enjoy reading her books, and rarely do they include holidays as part of the plot. I received a review copy courtesy of Revell through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion. Reviewer: Connie Porter Saunders I was caught up and swept away by this story that takes us to New Mexico in the early twentieth century. Caught up in the historical facts detailing the construction of the Santa Fe Railroad and swept away by the fictional characters who play a part in these events! Cassie Burton is alone and fears that she'll never have a family. Brandon DuBarko is well-respected but burdened by the secrets of his past. Much of the book revolves around Cassie and Brandon's friendship, but we can only hope their friendship will be a foundation for something deeper. Will they find love and happiness together? Cassie and Brandon are both endearing characters but doesn't every good story need villains and conflict? Cyrus McCutchen is definitely a villain to remember, and we can only hope his deeds will be discovered! Under the Starry Skies has danger, intrigue, and sweet romance, but there's also an inspiring spiritual thread woven into its plot. We are reminded that forgiveness is necessary, reconciliation is possible, and trust in God is essential. There's also an enjoyable nod to the written word as Cassie sets out to record the thoughts of various people involved in the Santa Fe Railroad project! After reading this book, I'm again reminded why I enjoy Tracie Peterson's writing. Her fascinating characters and inspiring plots keep me fully engaged, and I never fail to learn something new. I recommend Under the Starry Skies to all who enjoy historical romance. I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion. Reviewer: Carolyn Bryant Under the Starry Skies is an outstanding conclusion to the Love on the Santa Fe series and my favorite of the three books! I loved returning to New Mexico to meet Cassie and Brandon and experience their story. The richly described mid-1900s desert setting offers the reader a chance to feel the atmosphere and better experience the story's action. The plot flows smoothly with lots of action and some surprises. Beautifully crafted, memorable characters will steal your heart except for the villain Cyrus who was one bad dude! The development of the friends-to-more romance between Cassie and Brandon as they overcome obstacles from the past and present is captivatingly sweet. Well-researched historical events woven seamlessly into the narrative bring the story to life. I especially appreciate the uplifting faith thread of forgiveness and redemption throughout the story. I loved this book and highly recommend it, especially for historical romance fans. Note: Each book in the series is easily read as a standalone. I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion. Reviewer: Joy Hannabass Cassie is all alone now that her parents have passed away, and her sister is married and living far away, having nothing to do with her. Her only close friend is Brandon, a friend of her father's who promised to watch out for her if anything happened to him. Brandon enjoys his time with Cassie, but a relationship with her is not possible because of his horrific dysfunctional background. I enjoyed this third book in Tracie Peterson's Love on the Santa Fe Series. Cassie was such a sweet and caring character, and I love how her neighbors showed their love when Cassie broke her wrist. Brandon truly cared enough to keep watch over her just as her father asked him to, and I found it interesting how much time they spent together. Of course, I hoped to see the love word appear, but it took a long time. The work on the Santa Fe Railroad continues. I learned a lot about this railway, and it was fun to read about what all the railroad entitled. There is a villain in the story, Cyrus, who is determined to kill his way to a better life by dismantling parts of the train tracks to cause a derailment and rid himself of people in his way. But does it work for Cyrus? And this story is so full of action and many twists and turns that you need to read this book to enjoy it all. I very highly recommend this new historical book from Tracie Peterson. I think this series is Tracie Peterson at her best! I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.  Reviewer: Paula Shreckhise In a heartwarming story that takes on some difficult subjects, Ms. Peterson engaged me in the lives of the characters. Cassie has much to deal with after an estrangement with her sister. Her memories of a loving but harsh and hurting father and her faith have sustained her. I like how the author not only presents problems encountered daily but also provides spiritual answers. The setting was interesting. I learned a lot about the early railroads and living in a desert town. She crafted a believable villain who was sneaky but did not pull the wool over the eyes of Cassie or Brandon. Brandon was a steady force but had things in his past that haunted him and needed to be resolved. The conclusion was satisfying. A theme woven throughout was that we need to yield to God and trust Him. “It is all about Him and not about us.” Other themes presented were forgiveness, reconciliation, reward for honest work, and that truth will be revealed. A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own. Reviewer: Laura J. Davis
I thoroughly enjoyed Under the Starry Skies by Tracie Peterson. This book defines what it means to be forgiven and redeemed in Christ. Cassie Barton is all alone in the world. With both her parents gone, she makes her living at sewing. She does have a sister, but for reasons she does not understand, her sister wants nothing to do with her and wouldn't even come to their father's funeral. When Cassie is injured, a long-time friend of her father's, Brandon DuBarko, steps in to care for her. And he ensures that the men who accidentally injured her make reparations to her. Brandon has some difficulties to overcome with war looming and Mexican revolutionaries threatening the railroad. The more time he spends with Cassie, the deeper his feelings grow. But he has a secret that could threaten everything developing between them. I have not read any other books in this series. Thankfully, they can be read as a standalone. The author has well-developed characters with interesting stories in which she has woven a unique theme of redemption and forgiveness, especially for those who believe they don't deserve it. The love story between Cassie and Brandon is sweet and all the more moving as they each have obstacles to overcome. If you like historical romance, you will love Under the Starry Skies. I highly recommend it! I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley for my honest opinion. Leave a Reply. |
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