Monday, January 10, 2011

Book Review: Lake of Fire


Laura Fielding and Cord Sutton’s first meeting isn’t under ideal conditions. Laura, dressed as a boy, but really the daughter of a wealthy banker, is a passenger on a stage going to Yellowstone. She’s meeting her father who is traveling to Yellowstone to financially back the purchase of the Lake Hotel, an elegant resort on the lake shore in Yellowstone Park. She’s also meeting, for the first time, the man her father hopes she will marry, the man who plans to buy the hotel. The stage is waylaid by bandits and she barely escapes. Her rescuer, Cord Sutton, appears to be a rough mountain man, but in reality is wealthy and has the intention of buying the Lake Hotel as well.

During their three days of wilderness travel, neither reveals their true background. The trip, at first strained, becomes a delightful adventure for Laura, who has lived a pampered and sheltered life. Cord finds Laura a refreshing change from other women he’s known–she has spunk and an adventurous spirit. They both regret their trip coming to an end.

Arriving at the same destination, they learn the truth of their true identities. Laura learns that Cord is not only wealthy, but is one-quarter Nez Perce. Cord learns that Laura is the daughter of his opponent’s financial backer. Many factors complicate their budding relationship--betrayal, murder, jealousy, arson, bigotry. And a love that won’t be denied.

Linda Jacobs has done it again–produced yet another thrilling masterpiece in her Yellowstone Series. Although Lake of Fire takes place largely in the Yellowstone Park area, the three books are related through location, not as continuous stories. Lake of Fire takes place in 1900.

The author, herself a trained geologist, demonstrates her vast knowledge of the Yellowstone region’s geology. She weaves historically accurate facts with fiction, creating a believable, compelling story. Lake of Fire is a brilliant novel, with all the elements to create an engaging, satisfying read.

To learn more about Linda Jacobs and the other Yellowstone-series books, visit her website, http://www.readlindajacobs.com/

5 comments:

susan said...

I love these kinds of books and have this one on my list. So happy to be able to read this interview and thanks for taking the time to share with us. susan Leech garysue@dejazzd.com

Jean Henry Mead said...

It's set in my home territory and sounds like a mut read. Thanks for bringing it to my attention, Mary.

Jean Henry Mead said...

It's set in my home territory and sounds like a must read. Thanks for bringing it to my attention, Mary.

Arletta Dawdy said...

What a great read this promises to be. Thanks, Mary for bringing Linda's work to our attention with your nice review.
Arletta

Eunice Boeve said...

Sounds like a great story. Will have to put Lake of Fire on my to read list. One of the women in my latest novel (yet to be published) is quarter Nez Perce, so that caught my eye immediately.