“The Old River Road” by Hailey Rose

The Old River Road

(Long Lake Legacy, #1)

by Hailey Rose

Synopsis: 

When seventeen-year-old Clara Boutwell married her dashing coworker, William McDonald, she was convinced her life was nearly perfect. For newlyweds in the great city of Chicago, the journey ahead was exciting and promising. When a frightening disease takes William in its grip, the young couple is forced to the clean air of the western frontier in a desperate attempt to save his life. On the eastern Washington prairies, the McDonalds face hardships and trials in a new world where everything is tested, from physical endurance to emotional strength—down to their relationship and faith in the Lord.This novel tells the incredible true story of Clara and William, the great-great grandparents of the author, in a sweet narrative full of laughter, tears, and the struggles of an early pioneering family. Prepare yourself to share in their experience as you read this account of a pioneer family in Washington state, and see their lasting legacy that has endured into the fifth generation.

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

4.5 stars & 5/10 hearts. This book... it made me tear up so often, even if I’ve read it several times. The emotions are so vividly portrayed. So many difficult trials this woman had... and yet, you can see the Lord’s help through them all. And William was a darling. <3 The language is a bit too modern, but the settings are so well described I can see them all in my head. And all the many characters fit in just right. Truly a lovely book, inside and out. Due to the fact that it chronicles the life of a wife & mother, I recommend it for girls 16+. There is nothing inappropriate in the romance (except a couple forehead/cheek kisses & hugs before marriage), and the birthing/nursing scenes are hardly detailed; but in my opinion children younger than that don’t need to focus on those subjects. :) I don’t think I’d hand it to a boy, but then I don’t think a boy would care for it, either. ;) The paperback is worth every penny... it’s SO gorgeous!!!

A Favourite Quote: “Her eyes trailed upwards, where the setting sun cast stunning shades of pink, purple, and orange over the snow below. She gasped softly, wondering where such lovely colors came from. Jesus painting. (...) Even in the busy city, God’s presence was so near.”

A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “The overcast sky made the water sheen a stunning grey. It sparkled like crystal as the slight breeze made ripples on the surface.”

A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘William? ... You aren’t excited?’ Her voice sounded pitiful even to her. ... William stirred out of his reprieve and straightened.
“‘Excited? Oh yes. Very much.’
“Clara wasn’t at all convinced.”

Purchase this book:

Canadians | Americans