Book Review: Where the Trail Ends

Samantha Waldron and her family are taking the treacherous journey to Oregon County.  Determined to make it to the Williamette Valley before winter, Samantha and the group she is traveling with encounter horrible storms and unspeakable dangers of the wild.  When Samantha and her brother Micah find themselves separated from the rest of their party, they must rely on the kindness of the handsome British explorer, Alexander Clarke when their canoe capsizes.

Alexander takes them to Fort Vancouver, where the two recover and become immersed in their new lives at the Fort.  Samantha is asked to teach the children that live there, and Micah finds a mentor in Alexander.  And while Alexander is engaged to be married to Lady Judith of England, he finds himself captured by Samantha's strength and beauty, and Samantha finds herself falling in love him.  But when his betrothed arrives in the territory unexpectedly, Alex finds himself torn between his commitment to Judith and his growing affection for Samantha.  And when Micah disappears, will tragedy destroy Samantha and Alex forever?

A beautifully written work by author Melanie Dobson, Where the Trail Ends provides an exciting look into the journey that many Americans made to Oregon County in 1800's.  Dobson's characters are rich and well-developed.  You'll be inspired by Samantha, a strong and passionate heroine, and if you're a female reader, you're likely to develop a deep affection for the courageous and dedicated Alex.  This is a fantastic tale that will stay with you after you've finished the last page; you may even want to pick it up to begin reading it again.

A copy of this book was sent to me by LitFuse.  I received no monetary compensation for this review.  All opinions expressed here are my own.